Interviewing a domestic helper in Singapore is more than ticking boxes. The goal is to understand how the helper will fit your household routine, whether the person can handle childcare or eldercare, and how communication will work day to day. Use biodata as a starting point, then go deeper with structured questions that reflect your priorities. Keep the tone respectful and calm so the helper can answer honestly. A good interview reduces mismatches and shows that your family values transparency and fair expectations.
Before the interview
Prepare by listing the tasks that matter most such as cooking, infant care, pet care, or mobility support. Share a simple outline of your household size, daily schedule, and any special needs. If you use a maid agency, ask them to confirm the helper work history and languages spoken so you do not waste time. During the call, allow pauses and avoid rushing so the helper can explain details in full. This small effort improves the accuracy of your final decision.
- What were your main duties in your last household and which tasks were daily?
- What ages of children or seniors have you cared for and for how long?
- What dishes can you cook confidently and how do you plan a weekly menu?
- How do you handle cleaning standards, laundry care, and safe use of chemicals?
- What time do you usually wake up and how do you manage long workdays?
- Which languages are you comfortable speaking for daily instructions?
Scenario and safety questions
Scenario questions reveal how a helper thinks under pressure. Listen for step by step responses and a habit of reporting issues early. The best answers show practical judgment, not just confidence. Ask follow up questions when you need clarity, especially for tasks that involve children, elderly care, or kitchen safety.
- If a child has a fever, what steps do you take before calling the employer?
- If an elderly person refuses medication, how do you respond respectfully?
- If a pot catches fire, what is your immediate safety response?
- How do you manage school runs, meals, and cleaning on a busy day?
- If you make a mistake, how do you report it and fix it?
Score and compare candidates
After each interview, score the helper on the criteria that matter most to your household. This keeps comparisons fair and prevents the most recent interview from dominating your memory. Use simple ratings and add notes about communication style, confidence, and willingness to learn.
- Childcare or eldercare confidence for your main needs
- Cooking range and willingness to follow household preferences
- Cleaning standards and attention to safety details
- Language clarity and ability to follow instructions
- Adaptability and attitude during scenario questions
Share the notes with other family members and decide together. A structured review helps you choose the helper who truly fits your routine, not just the one who interviews well.
Close the interview with clear expectations
Confirm salary expectations, preferred rest day, and the earliest possible start date. Explain your living arrangements, phone use rules, and any religious or dietary considerations in the home. Be honest about the workload so the helper can decide if the role is a good fit. If there is a trial period or training plan, describe it briefly so the helper understands what the first month will look like.
End the interview by outlining next steps with the agency and a timeline for your decision. If possible, ask the helper to demonstrate a skill on video or describe how they would plan a full day of tasks. This signals that you are organized and helps the helper prepare. When interviews are consistent and respectful, you attract stronger candidates and build a cooperative relationship before day one.
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