News from Domestic Estate Managers Association

Answers You Need Before You Accept The Job

by: Teresa Leigh

Too often when employees are offered a job, especially one they are excited about, they jump to accept the position without first asking some key questions. Here are our top 10:

1. May I see a written job description?

Many times the employer does not have a written job description, and you asking for one may be the first time they have ever thought about it. We encourage employers to outline the key job duties in writing for their employees so there is no miscommunication about what the job entails. Remember, though, that a job description is a "living" document and is subject to change as the job grows or the needs of the household shift.

2. What is the salary, and how is it paid?

During the interview phase the employer may have given you a salary range, but never accept a position unless you have been told exactly how much you will be paid and how often. Make sure you know whether the position will be paid by salary or by the hour, and how overtime will be compensated if applicable. It's best to ask for a written offer letter that outlines this information and is signed by the employer.

3. How are overnights compensated?

If your job requires some overnight work ask whether the overnights are considered as part of your regular salary, or if they are paid over and above your salary, and if so at what rate.

4. What are the benefits and when are they effective?

Even if benefits have been discussed during the interview process get in writing from the employer exactly what they are offering you and when they are effective. Many times an employer will have a waiting period of 90 days to 6 months before offering insurance, paid time off, or other benefits so don't assume benefits will be effective on day one. Again, it's best to have this outlined in your written offer letter.

5. What is the start date?

This may seem like a no-brainer, but never assume you know when the position starts. The employer may need you to start tomorrow, but you would like to give a two week notice to your current employer. Or you may want to start next week but the employer is going to be traveling for the next month. Always have this discussion before you accept the job.

6. If I use my own vehicle for household business or errands, how is mileage compensated?

If the employer expects you to use your personal vehicle ask if mileage will be reimbursed at the suggested IRS rate or a different rate. Or perhaps the employers will reimburse you for gas. Make sure that you are comfortable with the arrangement before you take the job.

7. If I must travel as part of my position, will my travel expenses be reimbursed, or are they paid directly by the household?

If possible it is best to have the household pay for travel expenses on your behalf instead of paying them yourself. Costs for airfare, hotels, meals and other travel expenses can add up fast and the employer may be in no hurry to reimburse you. If you do have to pay for these expenses yourself, get in writing from the employer the time frame for reimbursement-it should never be more than one week from the time you turn in the receipts.

8. Will I have a household credit card or checking account for making household purchases or will I be expected to use my own money and be reimbursed?

You should never be expected to pay for household items with your personal money, except perhaps in the case of an emergency. If the employer expects you to do this on a regular basis it is a big red flag. If making purchases for the household will be a large part of your job then you should have access to a credit card or petty cash fund, and be expected to reconcile and balance these accounts.

9. If this is a live-in position and my employment ends for any reason, how long do I have to vacate?

Unfortunately sometimes there are unexpected terminations and live-in employees get put out on the street with no warning. To keep this from happening to you ask the employer to put in writing as part of your offer that they will give you adequate time to find new housing if necessary.

10. Will I receive regular performance evaluations?

Performance evaluations often get overlooked for household employees, so by asking about them at the offer stage you are letting your employer know that you are open to feedback. Even if the employer does not offer formal, written evaluations, let your employer know that you would like to at least have regular informal meetings to discuss your performance.

If you need guidance on new employment or are searching for ways to make your CV stand out

Teresa Leigh offers consultations to private service employees.

For more information:

http://www.teresaleigh.com/emp_consult.htm or contact her office 1.877.222.7292