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Appendix F
STEPS FOR HIRING HOME HELP
Clarify Your Needs
Write a Contract or Job Description
Advertise
Screen Calls
• Describe the job.
• Tell the salary range.
• Ask why the person is interested in the job.
• Specify the job requirements, i.e., car, no smoking.
• Ask about applicant's personal work habits and preferences.
• Ask for references.
Interview
• Have a list of questions to ask, such as: Where have you worked before? What were your job responsibilities? Have you cared for a person with similar needs before?
• Have a copy of the contract available.
• Was the applicant on time and dressed appropriately?
• Did you agree on the terms and duties of the job?
• Did you feel comfortable with the applicant?
• Remind applicant that you must check references.
• If you didn't like the applicant, be non-committal.
Contact References
Don't be afraid to ask many questions. Some might be:
• How long have you known the applicant? Dates? In what capacity?
• Is the applicant working for you now, or has he/she worked for you in the past?
• What is/was the applicant's position with you? Can you tell me more about his/her responsibilities?
• How did the person get along with you and senior adults?
• What were your impressions of him/her as a worker?
• Did you find him/her trustworthy and honest?
• Were you aware of any problems with drugs or alcohol?
• Describe your job situation and ask reference if the applicant would be a good match for your position.
• Why did the person leave?
• Would you rehire the person?
Sign the Contract
• Sign the contract before the person starts to work.
• Provide the worker with a copy of the contract.
• Keep the original for yourself.
Keep Records
• A self-employed person pays their own Social Security.
• You must keep records for a person who is not self-employed. If you pay $50 or more per quarter, you must withhold social security benefits and make quarterly payments to the IRS.
• Get Form 942 from the IRS.
• Set up a form to record insurance payments and deductions for your employee.
• If you pay in cash, get a receipt.
• Keep a record of any serious problem you have with your employee in case of a dispute later.
Get Insurance Coverage
• You must have insurance coverage for any person who works in your home.
• Talk to your homeowner insurance agent about your liability coverage.
Keep The Person You Hired
• Keep communication open.
• Praise a job well done.
• Be fair and kind.
• Respect your employee's privacy.
• Don't say things you don't mean.
• Be sure your employee understands what you expect.
• Demonstrate tasks and have your employee demonstrate back to you.
• Don't let small irritations build up.
• Permit ample time to resolve problems.
• Treat your employee as you would like to be treated.
Reprinted with permission
(c) 1992 Jewish Family Service of New Orleans, Inc.
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