7 Essential Interview Questions to Evaluate Maid Reliability
- ADELINE LIM
- Jul 22
- 3 min read
Introduction: The Stakes Are High — But So Is the Reward
For many busy professionals and dual-income families in Singapore, hiring a reliable domestic helper is more than just convenience—it’s essential. But how do you truly know who’s the right fit for your family?
The answer lies in asking the right interview questions—questions that dig beneath the surface, saving you from future headaches while ensuring your family’s well-being and peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 7 must-ask maid interview questions that go beyond basic qualifications. Whether you’re hiring your first helper or replacing one, these tips can protect your time, household, and sanity. 1. “Tell me about your previous employers and duties.”
Why it matters: This reveals real work experience and gives insight into whether the maid has handled tasks similar to yours.
Look for: Specifics on cooking, cleaning, childcare, elderly care, or pet care.
Red flag: Vague answers or job-hopping without clear reasons.
“We had a 2-year-old and my employer worked long hours. I was in charge of preparing meals, playtime, and bedtime routines.” – That’s gold. 2. “What do you enjoy and dislike about domestic work?”
Why it matters: This question uncovers motivations, attitude, and fit with your family’s needs.
If she dislikes cooking and you expect daily home-cooked meals—this mismatch can create problems.
Look for signs of passion, pride, and professionalism. 3. “How do you handle mistakes or being corrected?”
Why it matters: This tests her openness to feedback, emotional maturity, and problem-solving ability.
A strong answer might be: “I appreciate corrections because I want to improve.”
Avoid candidates who appear defensive or blame others.
Busy families don’t have time to micromanage. You need someone who can learn and adapt quickly.
4. “What would you do if our child was running a high fever while we’re not home?”
Why it matters: This scenario-based question tests judgment, emergency readiness, and common sense.
A capable maid might answer: “I’d check the temperature, sponge the child, call you, and prepare to visit a clinic if needed.”
Bonus: Ask if she’s certified in basic first aid.
5. “Can you describe your daily routine in your previous job?”
Why it matters: Real habits reveal whether she works independently, stays organized, and can multitask effectively.
You’ll want someone who has a structured routine: cleaning in the morning, meal prep by noon, laundry after lunch, etc.
Use this to gauge if she can match your household rhythm.
6. “What are your expectations from your future employer?”
Why it matters: It’s not just about your standards—her expectations matter too.
Look for answers around respect, clear communication, rest days, and fair treatment.
If expectations are unreasonable or mismatched, that’s a signal to reconsider.
7. “Why do you want to transfer from your current employer?”
Why it matters: This helps uncover potential red flags or genuine personal reasons (e.g., relocation, poor fit).
Be cautious of helpers who blame their employer entirely without taking responsibility.
A respectful and honest answer suggests integrity and emotional maturity.
Bonus Tips for Busy Families Who Don’t Have Time to Interview Dozens of Helpers (Maid interview questions)
At A.M.K Alliance Employment, we pre-screen all domestic helpers using these and other behavioral and situational questions, so you don’t have to spend hours interviewing.
We also provide:
Helper personality and strength assessments
Real employer feedback and reference checks
Cultural adaptation and onboarding support
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