The No. 1 most important thing to know before hiring a helper

When you are shortlisting and reviewing potential helpers, you will need to look at their employment history. You can find this information on the MOM website. Do note that this only shows her employment history in Singapore and not in other countries.













HOW TO CHECK A FDW'S EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

To access this information, you will need your Singpass details. To look up a particular helper, you need her full name or FIN number, date of birth, and nationality.

Once you are on the page, you can see "Employment period", "Household size", "Housing Type" such as Landed, HDB, Private flat/apartment, "Cancellation Reasons" and "Expected Job Scope".

WHAT TO LOOK FOR


Source: MOM website

First, look at the employment period column. In Singapore, a helper’s employment contract duration is 2 years. Look at how many contracts she has completed.

If the helper has completed more than 1 employment contract, it means she has a good track record.

However, if she has worked for many households, each time for less than 1 year, then it might be a red flag.

Then look at this other column: Cancellation reasons. The reasons are provided by the employers or employment agencies when they cancel the helper’s work permit.


Source: MOM website

The common reasons we’ve seen are:
  • Helper is not suitable for the household
  • Helper was transferred to a new employer.
  • Employer no longer needs the helper.
  • Helper wishes to end the employment.
Sometimes the cancellation reason is blank. It could be the helper has completed her contract or the reason was simply not provided.

NEGATIVE FEEDBACK BY EX-EMPLOYER?

By the way, if the candidate’s previous employer left negative feedback, it won’t be shown here. It’s only when you submit a work permit application for the helper, you will then be informed. MOM will provide you the previous employer’s contact details if you wish to find out more.

The MOM website is not the only place to view a helper’s employment history. Maid agencies also provide this and sometimes furnish more details including overseas employment records. It’s up to you to ascertain if it’s accurate.

HAVE QUESTIONS?

Once you find someone suitable, go ahead and schedule an interview with her. Or if you have shortlisted someone but have questions such as employment gaps, it’s best to ask her during the interview.

All the best in finding a suitable helper for your family!


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