128 - Productivity # 9 How to Hire Household Help

You only have 24 hours a day. The only way to get more time is to eliminate tasks or get help doing them. I know this is a hard concept for some to embrace. The idea of paying someone to do something you CAN do is a big mental mindset shift. By PAYING for a task to be done by someone else you are saying. I can't do it ALL. This is important enough to me at this time to make sure it is done and done regularly. I am going to use that time that is freed up to do..... What is it that you REALLY what to be spending your time doing?  This blog post is a meaty one. https://organize365.com/care/ I share the 10 steps I go through when hiring help.  How to hire help Make a job description. In your dream world what are ALL the things this person would do? When I hired babysitters for my daughter, I specifically looked for people who liked to cook and liked pets - 2 of my weaknesses and my daughter's strengths. Invite 10-20 people to look at your job description. Many people will not respond, so reach out to between 10 -20 potential good matches. When you get a yes... The LESS hours you need, the more candidates you will go through. Schedule an in person interview at your house on the day you want regular service. If you want a babysitter every Friday night, interview people on Friday night. If they can't make the interview at that time... they won't be able to accept the job. Be flexible. The best employee/ employer relationship is a win -win. You win by getting the task done. Know what you want done - no matter what - and what would be a great addition, but not a deal breaker if it can't be done. Hire for a long time relationship not a one off task. Working in your home with your family is an intimate relationship. Trust your "gut feel" when interviewing and go for the candidate you feel most comfortable with. Remember this is a job. Don't get too chummy too fast. Maintain your role as employer and have safe boundaries. Negotiate. Be fair with what you are willing to pay. If you are wanting just a few hours or a specific day and time, be willing to pay a little for then to work around your schedule. Start with a trial. When you have picked your winner - start with a 30 day trial. Having a trial period of time allows you both to get to know each other and the expectations of the job. At the end of 30 days you will be able to clarify any tasks that need to be changed, modify hours, and solidify the agreement going forward. Be a good employer. I LOVE being an employer. Appreciate your hired help. Treat them like a valued member of your team. Remember important events in their lives. Pay them fairly and ethically. Pay the taxes you know you should. Enjoy your new found time!  I use and recommended Care.com for household employment needs. By using this link I will earn an affiliate commission at no additional expense to you. Thanks! Save 20% on a Care.com membership here.