Employment Advice

Doing the Hiring ...

So you have decided to hire someone to do some odd jobs for you … that is the easy part. Choosing the right person can be a little more difficult. The only way to maintaining a happy arrangement is to have a good understanding of what your expectations are and communicating these as early as possible.

How to ensure you have the right person:

Ask for references and check these by contacting the person giving the reference to ensure they are genuine. While there is still the chance they are not the right person for you, at least you know they are a secure and safe choice.
Pay the going rate - Depending on the area you live in, expect to pay anywhere from £5 to £10 an hour for babysitting, house cleaning, etc. Other services will be a little more. Ask around for the going rate in your area and always offer to pay the normal price, getting someone cheap is not always value for money.
Meet the person face to face at least once before you decide to use their services. Especially if you want them to look after your kids. Allow yourself time to look for someone else, if the match is not right.
Develop a relationship based on trust. Decide early on whether you need to be there while the person you have hired is there, or whether you can give them a set of spare keys. If you really can't trust them alone, get someone else. Be aware, however, that it is human nature to be inquisitive, so if you don't want someone looking at you personal things, put them out of sight.
Don't ask for extras – unless you pay extra. If you have hired a cleaner, don't expect them to do ironing, unless this has been agreed upon from the start.
Treat people with respect. People who work for you are individuals who deserve to be treated like the people they are, and in kind they will treat you with the same due care.
Depending on the service, you may want to check whether the person you are employing has insurance, has been CRB checked or has the relevant qualifications or experience needed to
Use the 'rate this person' functionality on the website to acknowledge a job well done or to highlight bad performance.

Offering your services ...

So you have decided to register your services with us. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your ad and ensure that any work arrangements are safe and hassle free. Always remember the best way to promote yourself has to be happy customers who provide recommendations for you.

Make sure that your ad is descriptive, yet too the point. You need to highlight your skills, experience and knowledge. But it's not just this information that's important, your demeanor will count too. Give your ads some personality. People like to know that they are dealing with real human beings.
Add a profile picture. People like to see who they are dealing with.
Always make sure you take the time to spell check everything before you submit. Good grammar is good business.
Make yourself easily available. Some people don't want to email, they would rather call you. Others prefer to email. If possible, include both a phone number and an email address for them to get in touch with you. The easier it is for them to contact you the busier you will be. If you have a website, put the link in your Profile description.
Be truthful about your abilities.
Never provide your bank account details or personal ID such as passport or driving license when applying for a job.
Beware of scams. If you are unsure about a job, ask someone who may know, or notify us via contact us.
Do your research. Ask as many questions as possible about the job and what is expected of you. Do not feel embarrassed to discuss your expectations and worries upfront. This will also give you an opportunity to assess the person that you will be working for.

More references

Citizens Advice Bureau
Essential guide to employment relations
Tax and National Insurance
HM Revenue & Customs