How to Adjust to a New Maid

A maid eases responsibilities at home, but if treated improperly, can cause even more stress than housework. Bringing a stranger into your house is no simple task, but there are surefire ways to make the transition a smooth one. The trick is to know exactly what to expect; both of the maid and of yourself.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Expect negotiation. Review the full job description before hiring your maid. Chores such as cooking dinner and dog-walking can be assigned, but if requested after the hiring process is complete, a financial negotiation will likely follow. Extra work means more money for the maid.

2. Expect conflict. Most situations can be resolved calmly and maturely. The family and the maid should respect each other under any circumstances. Maids are not usually desperate for work; they may walk out on those who make them feel insulted, and they can be difficult to replace.

3. In a maid, expect a human being, not a miracle worker. All people who work need sick days and vacation. Maids may be late due to traffic, or cancel work after catching the flu. The point is the everyone has troubles. Maids shouldn't be punished for anything that was out of their hands.

4. Expect quick and thorough cleaning. In fact, households should accept nothing less. Families should also prepare to lose some privacy once their maids have been hired. They will be handling dirty laundry and stocking the underwear drawers, after all, but it's a fair trade for a spotless home.

Resources

• French Maid Deluxe Costume
• Bettie Page French Maid Keychain
• The Beggar Maid: Stories of Flo and Rose
• Global Woman: Nannies, Maids, and Sex Workers

[alienangel555]

on 12/22/2008 I wish I had this problem. Good tips, if your filthy rich. lol. 5

[sneedc]

on 12/17/2008 I'm the maid, chef, chauffeur, laundress and dishwasher around here and don't get paid---I need to print this for my family! thanks for the tips!

[vallain]

on 10/30/2008 Good info for anyone hiring this kind of help.

[Felicity]

on 10/20/2008 These are first rate tips. Another trap can be crossing the lines of employer/friendship. It is much harder to ask a friend to clean better... Thanks for sharing this with us!