15 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Household Helper in Thailand

You've found a promising helper on ThaiHelper or through a referral. Now it's time for the interview. Asking the right questions helps you find someone who's not just skilled, but a good fit for your family. Here are 15 questions that experienced families in Thailand recommend.

Experience & Background

1. "Can you tell me about your previous work experience?" — Listen for specifics: how long, what tasks, why they left.
2. "Do you have references I can contact?" — Good helpers are happy to share. Follow up and actually call.
3. "What ages of children have you cared for?" — If you need a nanny, experience with your child's age group matters most.
4. "What housekeeping tasks are you most comfortable with?" — Some helpers are great cooks but don't do laundry. Be clear about your needs.

Practical & Logistical

5. "What are your available days and hours?" — Make sure your schedules align before going further.
6. "How do you get to work? How long is your commute?" — A long commute can cause issues with punctuality.
7. "What is your salary expectation?" — Be upfront. If there's a big gap, it's better to know now.
8. "Are you available to start a trial period?" — 1-2 weeks is standard and fair for both sides.
9. "Do you have any dietary requirements or allergies?" — Important if they'll eat meals at your home.

Situational Questions

10. "What would you do if my child falls and gets hurt?" — Tests their first-aid awareness and calmness.
11. "How do you handle a child who won't listen?" — Reveals their discipline approach. Make sure it matches yours.
12. "What would you do if something breaks while cleaning?" — Honesty matters more than the answer itself.
13. "How do you feel about pets?" — If you have dogs or cats, this is a dealbreaker for some helpers.

Communication & Fit

14. "What languages do you speak?" — If you don't speak Thai, English (or your language) is essential for childcare.
15. "What do you enjoy most about this kind of work?" — A genuine answer shows passion. Passion means better care for your family.

Bonus Tip: Do a Working Interview

Instead of just talking, invite the helper for a paid half-day trial. Watch how they interact with your kids, clean, or cook. It tells you more than any question ever could.

Looking for helpers to interview? Browse verified profiles on ThaiHelper and find someone who matches your family's needs.