Guides / Before you hire
Work out exactly what help you need
A one-page description that makes every later step easier.
Most hiring problems start with a vague idea of the job. Writing down the tasks, schedule and must-haves first makes it easier to find the right person and to agree on fair pay.
Write down
- The tasks, in order of importance
- Days, hours and how regular the work is
- Must-haves: experience, certifications (like CPR for childcare), driving, pets, languages
- Nice-to-haves
- Your budget range, after checking local rates
- House rules that matter: shoes, phones, visitors, photos of children
Decide the arrangement
- Through a company or agency, or directly with an individual
- Regular schedule or occasional
- A paid trial period before committing
General information about hiring household help in the US. Rules vary by state and city. House Help Crew isn't paid by any agency, marketplace or service mentioned here.