Sample issue

Hi there,

This issue's tip: ask the "would you" question

When you call a reference for a sitter, cleaner or dog walker, most people ask whether the person was reliable. Almost everyone says yes. Try this instead, near the end of the call:

"If your situation were the same as when they worked for you, would you hire them again?"

Then stay quiet and listen. A quick, warm "absolutely" tells you a lot. So does a pause, or "well, for the right family". You can follow up gently: "What kind of household would they be best for?"

1. Call references yourself, at a number you found or confirmed, not just one the candidate wrote down.
2. Ask the same questions for every candidate and write notes during the call.
3. Ask what they'd improve, not just what was good.

Full guide: How to check references properly.

Interview question of the fortnight

"Tell me about a time a client asked for something you didn't agree with. What did you do?" Good answers describe a calm conversation, not a fight or silent compliance.

Reader question

"Our cleaner comes every other week. Do I need to do anything at tax time?" It depends on whether she works for herself or for you, and how much you pay in the year. Start with our guide to employee or contractor, then IRS Publication 926.

Hire well,
House Help Crew