Torn between hiring a transfer or a first-time helper? Read this before making up your mind.
Transfer maids
1. Because they have been working in Singapore for some time, transfer maids have:
- overcome culture shock and will be able to adopt your routine faster.
- made a substantial improvement in speaking and understanding English.
- acquired Singapore-specific skills.
2. You have the advantage of meeting a transfer maid in person to make a more reliable assessment before deciding.
3. You're able to verify their work history.
4. Transfer maids are not required to take the Entry Test or take time off for the Safety Course - both are mandatory for first-time helpers.
First-time maids
1. Culture gaps can create obstacles.
2. Since a first-time maid has no prior experience, a longer adjustment timeframe is usually required.
3. You can never be 100 percent certain the candidate's bio data and work history is accurate
4. A newcomer to Singapore may not have a strong command of the English language.
5. If a first-time helper fails the Entry Test they will be repatriated, inconveniencing you.
6. You will need to allow your new helper time off, to attend the Safety Awareness Course.
Intermares, Tel: 6732 9112, www.lucky.com.sg
Posted Apr 2011
