Having a good helper is such a great feeling!

[HK2008]

Thanks very much aussiegal. I guess I'm just too excited to finally have got a great help. But you are right. I shouldn't get too soft and generous at the beginning(already spoke to hubby about giving her a pay rise). My hubby said I treat her like a guest especially when we dined out last night. I kept reassuring her to eat more and help herself...I know from my heart that this is a good person but I'm gonna take your advice and keep a bit of distance. I'll re-consider as you suggested what I'm doing now will still hold true in a long term. Otherwise, I'll revise it. I think my hubby is right---that I have to manage expectation...What a tough world we're living in...I truly wish things could be simpler but I also know that human relationships are probably the hardest to work on...

 

[sherwes]

Hi, I also have a great helper. My husband and I just love her to death and our 16 month old son just loves her too.

However, I do agree with Aussiegal's sentiments. I think the key to good relationship with your helper is to remember that they are an employee and to make sure that you always make your expectations clear. We have always done this with our helper and I think she appreciates knowing what is expected of her and the fact that we don't expect her to read our minds. If she does something that I don't agree with I tell her so things don't build up and get tense. We haven't given her any pay rises yet (we do pay her above the min) but gave her a big Christmas bonus for her good work and I am planning on buying her a TV for her birthday which is coming up to reward her.

I hope things work out with your helper - good luck!

 

[Little Monster]

HK2008, I'm happy for you as it is soooo tough to get a good one. For me, I had experience with a helper who steals. and so, up to now, I still have no confidence in getting a live-in helper.

 

[HK2008]

Thanks ladies again for your reply. I just feel soooo good to be part of this forum as I don't feel alone nor lonely. It's like I've got so many friends out there who are ready to point me to the right directions.

My helper is really so good. She still takes care of everything I mentioned in the original post. She had all the week's meals planned for and we went out shopping for groceries according to her list. After I made payment at the counter she said: we spent too much, Mam. I need to plan something using cheaper ingredients...

I'm also thinking of giving her a pay rise each year, but reward her with bonuses, gifts for her birthday and Christmas and CNY. We'll also take her with us when we dine out etc.

I've tried to find what I'm unhappy with her but honestly, so far I've none. So I just need to be happy, hey?

 

[chef]

Grt all u lucky ladies
Im looking for a good one , since last 2 yrs have been real unlucky
Hope through this forum someone can recommend a good one .....