Finding efficient 'A-Yi (Chinese 阿姨)' can make a considerable difference to your family's stay in Shanghai. Generally speaking, the demand of 'Ayi' in Shanghai is huge, and there is a shortage of experienced maids while very few of them speak English. Joanna Relocation service team will provide you the professional assistance to this, however, it is still helpful to learn the general practices of how to find 'Ayi' in Shanghai .
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There are several ways to find a good 'Ayi' , the easiest is simply call Joanna Real Estate Shanghai Office and seek for assistance. Alternatively, if people you know have a good 'Ayi' ask if she knows of anyone experienced looking for a job. Many of the best 'Ayi's are found in this way. Be patient and prepared to interview several people before you make a choice, especially if you have never had domestic help before.
Other Places to find 'Ayi' include agencies, notice boards of supermarkets (especially Villa) club notice boards and word of mouth. Someone leaving may recommend taking on their 'Ayi' or someone who has good domestic help may ask their 'Ayi' to recommend their family members or friends.
We at Joanna Real Estate also suggest you to clarify your own needs. For example, decide whether you would prefer live-in or live-out 'Ayi' . Determine whether it is important to you that your 'Ayi' should be able to read and write in English and/or Chinese. Generally it is wise to decide what you need done and then get the appropriate help to carry out these duties. If you need someone to look after the children don't expect the general 'Ayi' to do this automatically. This must be discussed and written into the job description at the time of hiring. Be very specific about what you expect and there is less room for frustration and miscommunication.
After hiring a 'Ayi' , make sure she knows your name and telephone number. When making known your family routines, demonstrate physically how you want things done as well as giving verbal instructions. Point out your treasures, and remember that valuable antiques may look very like junk to your 'Ayi' ! |
