Household News: Parents, Nannies & Housekeepers

Mirror Mirror on the Wall, Can You Be Cleaner than Them All?

2011-05-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

Mirrors and windows can be frustrating to clean. Many times after cleaning, mirrors and windows will still have streaks, specks, dirt or a fog of cleaning chemicals left on it. There are several different cleaning strategies that can leave a surface streak-free and sparkling until the next cleaning.

There is an assumption that you have to use a commercial glass cleaner to get the job done, but in fact you can combine white distilled vinegar with 1 quart of warm water to clean both mirrors and windows.

Depending on the number and height of windows, it may be necessary to obtain a professional window cleaning service to get the job done. Interior window cleaning will be easier for those reachable areas where dogs may put their noses and children their fingerprints. Exterior window cleaning requires taking off the screen and in some cases using the hose to rinse away any excess dirt.

Clean the surface first to remove any heavy dirt or marks. Use plain water to do the pre-cleaning. Newspapers can be used as a cleaning cloth as long as they are not of soy-based ink. You can also use a microfiber cloth, coffee filters or a diaper to obtain a streak-free, lint-free result. Use a squeegee for best results on windows.

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Crossing Boundaries with the Housekeeper

2011-05-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

One of the things I teach in my "career development" class weekly to the various housekeepers and nannies is that once you cross that line with your employer, you will find yourself in a position where you no longer can maintain a professional relationship. To keep things in good order, it is important to create and maintain lines of respect in any employment situation. There is this tremendous gray definition of what families describe as "being part of the family". Does this mean that the nanny gets the same benefits as other members of the family? The likelihood is that she is considered to be part of the family until she does something that is unacceptable. So what might that be??? Ok, here are some examples:

*Asking for a cash advance
*Borrowing clothes and jewelry (shame on Schwarzenegger's Housekeeper)
*Forming opinions and imposing them
*Making political and religious statements
*Taking something without asking (even if you think you deserve it)
*Undermining parental decisions
*Taking advantage of breaks, vacation or time off
*Talking about the family to others
*Assuming a role that isn't yours to take (mistress included)
*Showing any form of disrespect

Now on the other hand, there are plenty of household employers who ALSO cross the line. Yes, they are just as culpable and often do it to such a level that it is even more embarrassing and shameful. After all, as employers, they are supposed to know better. Here are those examples:

*Yelling, using obscenities and making a household worker feel belittled
*Not adhering to an employment agreement for things promised
*Underpaying for a job that demands more for its effort
*Thinking that gifts of unneeded items is like giving a "bonus"
*Exposing themselves and thinking that their 'nudist' way of life is acceptable in their home (yes this did happen)
*Deducting wages for room and board when the employee only lives there 5 days (not permanent residence)
*Having sex because "you are rich and powerful" and the housekeeper is not (Dominique Strauss-Kahn as an example)

Shame, shame on all of you. If you want self-respect as an employee, demand it and do not succumb to the darkness of others. If you are an employer, there is a line that cannot be crossed unless you want to find yourself in an ugly lawsuit. As the employee, crossing the line simply can get you fired and in a situation that may prevent future employment.

Summer Sweat Circles

2011-05-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

Ahh the heat has arrived and with it comes sweat circles. Yes, those ugly sweat circles on our shirts, blouses and dresses that cause embarrassment and tend to ruin our clothes.

Brian Johnson – Director at the Dry Cleaning and Laundry Institute tells us that the aluminum-based antiperspirant is the “biggest culprit” for stains left behind on the shirts and blouses. The manufacturers of antiperspirants say that there many other factors that need to be taken into consideration and that they can’t figure out what is the main cause. Their main concern is to eliminate wetness; dropping the levels of aluminum would not make their consumers any drier. So what are people doing? Believe it or not, they are actually going for prescriptions, Botox injections and the removal of sweat glands through surgery and laser procedures to alleviate the problem. Brian Johnson recommends that you wash, rather than dry-clean shirts that have yellow stains. “The Stains are water based so they need water to get them out. Furthermore, wash an item as soon as possible after perspiring. Use detergent or a stain remover with oxygen bleach.

Here are some products in the market made for this problem: PitStop is a stain remover to fight yellow stains; Beconfident are adhesive underarm shields made of a cotton blend to keep wetness from reaching the fabric.

http://www.MartaPerrone.com

Housekeeper's Voice

2011-05-06T17:54:00.000-07:00

The news is flooded with reports regarding laws, unions, and potential changes to protect domestic workers.It began in New York city with the Domestic Workers United Bill of Rights for domestic workers that passed in November 2010. They fought long and hard to impose on household employers guidelines as it relates to benefits, hours and wages, medical insurance and other protections commonly provided to other professions. However, they were unsuccessful in obtaining ALL their wish list. In preparation for this, they did study after study in the household industry interviewing housekeepers and nannies all over the State of New York to get their story. All this served to support their cause.

In Los Angeles,the struggle continues as local legislators seek the passage of the California Bill to ensure that live/in domestic workers would have the right to sleep at least five hours each night and have access to employer's kitchens to cook their own food. Advocates say that because those rights are specific to live/in caregivers, "they must be enshrined in domestic worker-specific law." Lolita Andrada Lledo, associate director of Philipino Workers Center in Los Angeles explains that the ability to cook their own food is essential for caregivers, rather than being limited to what food the elderly and ill patients are able to eat.

Regarding the right to sleep, Lledo comments that in-home workers are often denied sleep entirely, especially when caring for stroke victims and elders with dementia or Alzheimer's who have round-the-clock needs. Their hope is to put in place a law that demands there be a shift of 12 hours for each caregiver, giving the other a chance to rest.

There were other speakers who stressed the need to pass this bill to ensure domestic workers have the legal recourse for harassment and violence in the workplace.

Housekeepers all over the world are abused in various cultures ss evidenced by the many news reports. The United States has always been the frontrunner for all change. It appears domestic workers' voice will be heard as they reap the benefits of this great democracy.

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Too Busy to Clean

2011-05-02T21:25:00.000-07:00

Time is of the essence, but who has it these days. Unless you can afford full time help to clean up after you and every child and pet in the family, a mess is soon to follow unless of course you make it a routine. Here are some housekeeping tips to keep things running smoothly in spite of your busy schedule.

Beds – When you wake up, open up your bed and pull the sheets up and away from the bed. Open the doors or windows and get fresh air into the room. Ventilate the room for 20 minutes, stretch out the bottom sheet and then proceed to make the bed. While you are there, pick up any glasses or bottles of water, newspapers, tissues, etc.

Dusting – Get some good microfiber cloths and have them handy to use whenever you run the vacuum or sweep the floor. A good wipe down takes only a minute. Lift up the accessories and wipe on all sides of every surface.

Laundry – Clothes can pile up especially when you have children. If your hampers are full on a daily basis, try putting a load in every morning just as you wake up and perhaps are exercising and/or getting the children up and ready for school. Change the wash to the dryer (or line-dry your items) before you leave the house. If you have an extra 15 minutes, then take the things out of the dryer and lay them out flat and/or line dry. When you get home from work, you can fold and put everything away. Designate 1 day per week for the dry cleaners and 1 day per week to either wash/launder the sheets and towels.

Floors – Whether you have carpets or floors throughout the house, they have to be vacuumed or swept at least 1-3 times per week depending on how they look. Kitchen floors should be swept daily after meals and other floors in rooms can be done as needed, but no less than once per week. A quick sweep or run of the vacuum can be done in 5 minutes. Quickly put an attachment on the vacuum to collect dust from the baseboards. Choose a different room to vacuum/sweep each morning or while dinner is on the stove.

Bathrooms – A good deep cleaning of a bathroom can only be accomplished when you have at least 30 minutes in the day. You may need to address this on a Saturday or Sunday. In between, you can do the following to keep things orderly: take the trash out daily, wipe down the mirror if you see any smudges, use a squeegee in the shower, use a toilet bowl brush in the toilet, have a handy cleaning towel available under the sink to dry up the sink and polish the faucets daily. When you use the towels (hand, bath or shower), always fold/hang them neatly.

Kitchen – While making a meal, always clean up during the cooking process. This will make it easier for you after everyone has finished eating. Always clear the sink of dishes; loading and turning on the dishwasher in the evening. Clean off the kitchen table and sweep beneath and around the kitchen after every meal. Give a good wipe to the stovetop and counters. Run the garbage disposal and take out the trash. This may seem time-consuming – so you might have to enlist the help of a spouse and/or older child.

Family Room – This room is frequently used in many homes. In the evening when everyone is ready to retire, just take a moment to fluff up the pillows on the couch, put glassware or dishware from snacks and drinks away, put away DVDs, throw away newspapers, put toys back in their respective place and leave the room looking fresh and clean for the morning.

Cleaning 101 – Always put things back where they belong and as you found them. When you pass by a room and see something out of place, take a second to make it look right. Stay on top of your laundry, dusting, vacuuming and trash removal; daily attention is needed. Develop an eye for detail and organization.

The key to keeping things in order when you have a busy schedule with not a moment to spare is to do things in a timely manner and as part of a routine. Incorporating these clean up routines into your schedule can be just as natural as brushing your teeth after a meal.

http://www.TheProfessionalHousekeeper.com

Balancing Life when the Baby Arrives

2011-04-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

Love and marriage...love and marriage! The bliss of that wedding day when the spotlight is on you. Recently being a bride for as of August 2010, the day was quite different than when 23 years ago as babies entered the relationship. There is no question that the dynamics change from romance and courtship to full attention to the care and development of a child. Working parents face another challenge of finding help for their child, functioning at work after sleepless nights, constant concern for the baby on almost a moment to moment basis. It isn't hard to imagine that there is very little time for yourself, let alone each other.

According to data from Relationship Research Institute in Seattle, conflict between parents will increase within the first 3 years of the child's birth as sex and adult conversation decrease and distance between the two is formed.

Here are some of the issues:

1) Dividing household and baby functions - who is going to be responsible for what? It isn't any different than when hiring a nanny, staff of housekeepers and other household workers. Everyone has to have a clear idea of their responsibilities. Make a list, agree to it and don't get it done.

2) Chemical changes occur in mothers through hormonal changes, nursing, and postpartum depression. These physical changes must be addressed with help from professionals.

3) Women, in particular, tend to throw themselves into the children and forget about their husbands who also need attention. Let's face it, men do not like to be ignored.

4) Attention to your own bodies and good health tend to falter behind your constant focus on the children. Everyone looks fairly fit on their wedding day with great efforts to fit into that dress and suit....but then the weight goes on and time for exercise diminishes. Not just for our spouse, but first and foremost for ourselves, it is never a good idea to let yourself go. Exercise and good eating habits is a way of life that should become routine. It isn't always easy incorporating this; however, maintaining ourselves in good shape and health is important to any relationship.

5) Finances seem to be more of a concern in any marriage, but certainly the expense of a child can exacerbate that discussion. Allocating sufficient funds for clothing, education and well-being of a child is something that needs planning and discussion.

There are numerous people out there that can counsel you through this process. These trained professionals teach you how to discuss a problem without forming criticism, maintain a healthy sexual appetite, and financially plan your lives so that money issues don't tear you apart.

The percentages of marriages that fail is greater with those who have children than childless. That in itself tells you that children are the result of issues between parents that can create a breakdown in communication, intimacy and overall friendship.

It is all about balance - your children, health, physical appearance, intimacy, finances, work and your spouse!

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Hotels Going Green at the Expense of Hygiene

2011-04-27T07:21:00.000-07:00

Room hygiene at hotels is becoming an issue as the world contemplates "going green" and the economy at hand. Some hotels are asking you not to throw the towels on the floor and try to use them for a more few days instead. This could also mean anything from not replacing shampoo and soap until bottles are almost empty to washing towels every other day to "not changing sheets for every new guest." Well, that is going a bit too far. A new TV ad by the Hampton Inn chain implies that other hotels are not changing sheets for new guests. Hidden cameras have also confirmed that bedspreads are not being washed regularly. The assumption is that this is not happening at a major hotel chain. However, if you plan on staying at an inn, motel or small chain of hotels, you just might end up sleeping on someone's sheets. Oy!!

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Nannies Beware: Cribs can be Dangerous

2011-04-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

It has been a known fact for years that cribs can be dangerous for babies; in 2 months (June)we will have new construction standards for cribs. This is terrific news, but the only problem is that these rules do not cover the risk of bedding, mobiles and other toys to infants under 1 year of age. About 2,500 babies die from SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) each year. This figure is down from 4,000 in 1992 partly because more parents are putting babies on their backs to sleep. With regard to the bumpers, parents don't want an empty looking crib, but if these bumpers are not tied securely, it can pose a serious problem to the baby. The new crib standards are as follows: dropdown sides are completely prohibited, stronger slats, mattress supports and hardware are required. Tags with code 16 CFR1219 for full-size cribs and 16 CFR1220 for compact size cribs will indicate that the crib meets the new standards. Child care centers, churches, motels and other public accommodations have until December 2012 to make sure their cribs meet the new standards.

What is most interesting is that statistics show that the safest sleeping arrangement is to have the baby sleep the first 6 months in a bassinet or crib in the parents'room. The experts report that the theory is that the baby and parents subconsciously synchronize their breathing which keeps the baby's breathing regular.

Information like this is provided in The Professional Housekeeper training program for nannies and housekeepers.

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The Professional Housekeeper Training Seminar NYC

2011-04-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

The Professional Housekeeper Training NYC

Just back from NYC where we had our first east coast The Professional Housekeeper training seminar. The room was filled; from housekeepers just starting out to those with 20 years experience, from cleaning service owners to butlers and estate managers.

The day began with Allison Julian of Domestic Workers United giving us a brief history of DWU and an overview of the recent changes in New York law as it pertains to domestic workers.

With the vast array of experience in the room, the engagement was tremendous with everyone offering tips, suggestions, and sound advice on everything from cleaning issues to solving problems in the workplace.

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http://www.TheProfessionalHousekeeper.com

What is overwhelmingly clear is that people working in the private service industry welcome the opportunity to have continued education.

Most gratifying to me is that with each The Professional Housekeeper training I know lives have been touched and livelihoods have been improved.

Health Insurance Tax Credit for Nannies

2011-04-15T04:40:00.000-07:00

The Best Nanny Newsletter recently reported how a nanny needed to get insurance desperately and did not know how to approach her employer. Tom Breedlove of Breedlove & Associates was a big help. Apparently by going to Health Reform In Action web site you can find the most affordable individual health insurance in your state. The next step would be to get your employer to send in the health insurance premiums. This cost is then considered not taxable income. Is is better to have an employer send the premiums to obtain lower taxable income than to add the health insurance to the end of the year medical expense deduction. The employer eventually benefits with tax credit. Small employers who contribute to their employer's health insurance are entitled to a tax credit. So in addition to being non-taxable form of compensation, health insurance contributions made by a nanny employer turn into tax credits.

Nannies and housekeepers are less aware of how they could obtain health insurance without costing them or their employer too much money. Their employers usually do not consider providing this benefit to their nannies or housekeepers. Since providing benefits to domestic workers is not mandatory, it is rarely discussed. In New York, the Domestic Workers United organization was instrumental in establish laws to support domestic workers. The Domestic Workers Bill of Rights reforms New York State law to guarantee basic work standards and protections for the nannies, caregivers and housekeepers who keep New York families functioning. The Bill of Rights was signed by Governor Patterson on August 31, 2010 and went into effect November 29, 2010.

As it relates to "Health Benefits", the guidelines are that Employers should pay or contribute to employees' health care. This arrangement should be mutually agreed upon. Their contention is that housekeepers and nannies are particularly vulnerable due to their exposure to toxic cleaning products and also illness, and that for this reason, employers of domestic workers must provide medical insurance for the employee.

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Mistakes Household Employers make with Domestic Workers

2011-04-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

1 Household Employers consider hiring household workers who have been
either referred by word of mouth or from a job listing service
or newspaper do not do the due diligence on every employee to ensure that they know everything there is to know about the domestic worker before offering a position.

2. Employers hire the domestic employee and bank on the fact
that the references stated that this individual was “wonderful”. They assume that the employee knows how everything and does not need household training.

Big Mistake – every single new employee must be trained in how to do things in the house “your way” to ensure starting on the right foot from the beginning. The
amount of household and nanny training and input you provide in the beginning has a direct relationship with the successful outcome of that employee.

3. Employers fail to get an Employer/Employee Agreement in place
in place where all the requirements and household duties
of the position as well as the benefits, salary and other details
are very clear so that everyone knows what to expect from each other.

4 Employers leave their children in the hands of a new employee without observing carefully how the employee handles the children. What is necessary is that the first few weeks of hiring someone, the parent(s) are available to make sure that the
employee’s ways of handling the baby, disciplining the children, playing with the children and overall care is in sync with the views and choices made by the parents.

5. Employers get overly friendly with the household help making many allowances to the point where they have now crossed the boundaries and find themselves in a
position where they no longer have an employee relationship. The employer is uncomfortable giving direction to the nanny and/or housekeeper.

6. Employers veer from the labor code and overwork their employees (never providing breaks) especially in a live/in situation; ultimately, making the fatal mistake of “burning out” their employee who has no other recourse but to terminate.

7. Employers think that because the employee isn’t a US Citizen and perhaps only a resident of the state, that this does not give the employee the right to
celebrate what the employer regards as “American” holidays. So the employer elects not to provide any holidays. Meanwhile, although many states do not make
it mandatory to provide holidays to domestic workers, it is still common for household employers to give the major 6 holidays to domestic workers.

8. Employers think that domestic workers are “independent contractors” when in fact the majority of domestics do not qualify as independent contractors
unless they have a cleaning service company and come to one’s home with supplies and cleaning equipment.Otherwise, domestics who earn a certain amount
per calendar quarter must be placed on payroll as employees of the employer.

9. Employers think that because they are generous andgive their nannies and housekeepers clothes and other unwanted and used items from their home constitutes as payment for perhaps extra hours worked. A gift is a gift and every hour an employee works should be compensated with pay.

10. Employers forget to have review sessions periodically so that the employee and employer can equally voice their concerns and problems-on-the-job.
Instead these problems fester and become serious issues that cannot be easily solved resulting in a termination.

Domestic workers which include nannies, housekeepers, companions to the elderly, household managers, cooks and estate managers should receive proper training, benefits, a household manual, an employment agreement and periodic review sessions to maintain a long term mutually-satisfying employer/employee relationship.

http://www.MartaPerrone.com

How to Find a Nanny Job

2011-04-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

The climate is still a bit gloomy when it comes to job hunting, but your spirit and energy is most needed at this time. If you are a nanny looking for work, this is the time to consider your skills and education in the field. The nannies who are getting hired amongst the many seeking employment are presenting themselves as follows:

*Child Development training - courses taken and certificates received
*Experience with all ranges of children from newborn to school age.
*At least 3-5 reference letters illustrating work experience
*A professional looking resume
*Excellent "clean" driving record
*CPR and First Aid training
*TB Tested along w/ medical testing that is of concern for babies
*Flu Shot
*RIE Method training
*An understanding of how to work with an autistic child
*General housekeeping skills
*Good basic cooking skills to make healthy meals for children
*Pleasant, nurturing, outgoing personality
*Strong communication skills
*Sense of professionalism: reliable, punctual, responsible

If you are seeking employment as a Nanny, consider these qualifications and how you measure against your competition. Get your portfolio together and present yourself as a professional, educated and experienced nanny. You will soon find success!

http://www.martaperrone.com
http://TheProfessionalNanny.net

A Nanny Runs a Household

2011-04-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

When we think of hiring a nanny to care for a child, it may seem that the responsibility is solely "child-related"; however, if you were to break down the day step by step, you would see that a nanny does so much more.

*Wake up the children and get them dressed
*Get lunches ready for school
*Get breakfast ready and clean the kitchen
*Drive the the children to school
*Stop to do a few errands for the household
*Plan dinner for the children/family and do grocery shopping
*Organize and clean children's rooms and make beds
*Organize and clean children's bathrooms
*Do children's laundry from sorting, washing, hand-washing to drying and ironing
*Accept packages, supervise repairs and other workers as needed
*Keep a list of needed items for children and/or home
*Pick up children from school and to after-school activities
*Bring children home and provide a snack
*Help children with homework
*Begin to prepare dinner
*Assist with bath and preparation for bed
*Prepare children's clothes for next day

In all of these responsibilities, there is a need for a nanny to know how to do many things such as:

*Organize closets, drawers and rooms
*Clean a bedroom, kitchen and bath
*Launder clothes
*Cook basic healthy meals
*Make Lists and do grocery shopping
*Drive
*Tutor
*Manage activities such as household repairs
*Multi-task and have a good sense of time management
*Maintain a sense of security for the home and children
*Handle emergencies as they relate to the home and children

With working parents, a nanny is in full charge not only managing the children from every aspect but also running the household.

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Is a Nanny Really Part of the Family

2011-03-17T21:25:00.000-07:00

Frequently a nanny will come to me confused and upset that she just doesn't know how to act on an interview. "Each time I go to an interview, I am getting turned down for one reason or another and I just don't know what I am doing wrong. It is either a family that wants me to become "part of the family" or it is someone that wants me to have more distance and be slightly less personable and more reserved. Some families want me to be talkative and outgoing while others seem to want a more quiet disposition. What is the magic formula? How should I act on an interview?"

My response is as follows: When you are seeking a job for this kind of position where you are working in someone's home closely with the parents, it is a touchy situation. You walk a fine line between being "part of the family" and demonstrating a more "professional conduct". The first thing you must always do is be yourself and then find a way to make necessary adjustments so that you are "professional at all times". It is necessary to be pleasant and engaging, but not to necessarily say "I want to be part of the family." Maybe the family isn't interested in having that relationship with you. This isn't your family, it is your employer and ultimately that is the relationship you both want to have together. One where you both are respectful and do not cross any boundaries. You want to be able to ask your employer for direction and constructive criticism and be in a position where you can also ask your employer to abide by what has been stipulated in your employment agreement.

For a better understanding of protocol on the job and while interviewing for household positions, you can read more in "The Professional Housekeeper" Career guides.

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Domestic Estate Managers Association DEMA

2011-02-10T08:27:00.000-08:00

January 26th, the Domestic Estate Managers Association hosted their first ever DEMA Townhall Meeting in Los Angeles California. This was another first for the Private Service Community! The purpose of the event was to provide a platform for members and the industry to have a candid discussion about Domestic Placement, the challenges that exist today and the future of the industry. The panelists provided more insight on these topics in hopes to create better communication between everyone related to the industry during a question and answer forum.

The four participating Domestic Placement Agencies were Charles MacPherson Associates, Distinguished Domestic Services, The Help Company and Precise Home Management. Mr. MacPherson gave the opening remarks and kicked off the event with a Bang! Amongst the ninety attendees were sixty-five Private Service Professionals and over a dozen Placement Agencies.

To view videos of the event please visit the DEMA Facebook page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Domestic-Estate-Managers-Association/92315277423

The Domestic Estate Managers Association was created to provide a forum for Private Service Professionals and certified service vendors interested in better serving and protecting the best interests of their clients. The fundamental purpose of the Association is to provide continuing education and raise industry standards. You can join via this link: http://domesticmanagers.com/joinh.php and gain access to local meetings, educational materials, webinars and a network of individuals striving to make a difference in the industry.

You can view more more information at www.domesticmanagers.com.

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Housekeeping Jobs: How to Interview

2011-02-04T13:29:00.000-08:00

Interviewing for a Housekeeping Position requires more than one interview to cover all the necessary topics and make the impression you need to make to get that job.

First Interview

*The initial impression is the most important when you meet anyone. An employer will look at the clock to see if the candidate arrived on time. There should be little to no excuse for arriving late. We have enough resources to find addresses between the internet, GPS/navigation in our cars and phones to prevent us from getting lost. We even know the time that it will take from destination to destination, so there shouldn't be any lateness due to not knowing how long it would take to get there. Traffic is another great excuse, but if you are traveling during the peak hours of traffic, then the candidate should allow for extra time. This all makes logical sense. Bottom line, it is better to be early and wait outside for your designated hour to step to the door, then to be late with excuses.

*Dressing appropriately for an interview means that you wear clothes that fit the role you are seeking. A nanny/housekeeper should be professional looking with black pants or skirt and a white blouse or shirt, closed toe shoes, little to no jewelry, perfume, aftershave or make-up, nails short, well-manicured and clean and hair pulled up or back away from the face. Anything short of this will not leave the proper impression on an interview.

*Bring the proper identification and portfolio that represents your qualifications, references and certifications. Arrive with a 3-hole binder that has everything in it to show your background and why you are qualified for the position. On a first interview, you may make copies of these items to leave with the employer (less your ID) or you may wait until the employer shows interest with a follow-up interview or call.

*Be pleasant, engaging and focused. The candidate must put on her/his best attitude and personality to warm up the chemistry with the employer. Even if you are nervous, you must snap out of it, breathe deeply and put your best foot forward. Listen carefully to the questions and have your own list of questions about the job, the children, the house and the responsibilities. The first interview is not about the benefits and salary; you should first focus on the job and what is required of you. Ask sufficient amount of questions to understand the schedule, expectations and needs.

*Meet the family members, especially the children if the job requires childcare. Engage with the animals and see if you and everyone will get along. Obviously, a good relationship takes some cultivation, but you want to at least meet everyone and get a feel for each member of the family.

*Express your interest, or not, in the job so the prospective employer knows where you stand. Ask when the employer plans to make a decision. If you really like the job, offer to leave your information.

Second Interview

This is when you might be one of several candidates that the employer has narrowed down. Now you really need to step up to the plate and do your best to keep the employer's attention. All of the first interview requirements are the same, but now is when you should be discussing the nitty-gritty issues.

*Cover the responsibilities carefully: Be fully aware of what is required in terms of childcare, housekeeping, cooking, driving, errands, etc. Take notes and show a true interest in noting everything. Ask if the employer will provide you a household manual in order to know what is required day to day.

*Discuss the schedule, need for flexibility and overtime: What is the earliest and latest hour you are needed and will you be required to work nights or weekends.

*Discuss the salary: How you will be paid. Preferably it will be through payroll. Discuss the gross versus net salary so that everyone is clear of what you are being paid per hour, per week and per year. Also discuss whether you will be paid weekly or bi-weekly or monthly.

*Discuss the benefits: Find out if they are providing vacation time, sick days, holidays, personal days and/or medical and dental insurance. In most states, there are no mandatory laws for providing these holidays. Recently in New York, the law for domestic workers has changed providing greater benefits. Check your state to see what is standard. Check with other workers in the area to see what the industry seems to be providing in your part of town.

*Discuss what will happen when the family travels: Will you be paid for the time off or not. Find out if they travel frequently and need you to go with them. Are the trips international requiring a passport or domestic only.

*Discuss issues with the family members that are important: Find out their philosophies for raising the children, methods of discipline for the children, how to handle an emergency, what is the best way to contact everyone. Find out if there is anything that you need to know before starting a job.

*Discuss cooking needs: What does the family like, how extensive do you need to know how to cook. Perhaps, they are expecting a better cook than you are comfortable providing. You may need to learn more and improve those skills. Get some recipes down so that you can begin practicing those dishes.

*Discuss when the family actually plans on hiring someone: Will they make a final decision soon so that you know exactly when to expect an answer.

Once you have been selected for the position, come back for the final meeting to get all of these particulars in an Employment Agreement so that there are no misunderstandings.

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Domestic Estate Managers Association DEMA

2011-01-19T21:30:00.000-08:00

Calling all Private Service Professionals!

Please join the Domestic Estate Managers Association (DEMA) in Los Angeles on Wednesday January 26th for a free chapter meeting! This meeting is an industry first featuring a round table discussion with Domestic Placement Agencies to discuss the state of the industry and answer questions regarding placements. Space is limited so I highly encourage you to register for this event as soon as possible.

Please visit the website below for more information and to register.

Should you have any additional questions please email Matthew Haack at info@domesticmanagers.com.

Los Angeles Wednesday January 26th

http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=qkpel7cab&oeidk=a07e384ow2h9221fa30

How to Maintain your Housekeeping Job

2011-01-18T15:59:00.000-08:00

For the last several years, economic times have been a bit strange and job opportunities working as a housekeeper are simply not what they used to be in better days. This brings to mind how important it is for those doing housekeeping to find ways to maintain a good relationship with our employers so that we do not lose our jobs. This year alone, I saw 2 individuals who were well-paid lose their jobs for simply crossing boundaries and not maintaining a professional relationship. This was heart-breaking for me and disturbing for their employers. Here are some thoughts on how to avoid such problems.

Crossing Boundaries refers to many things within an employment relationship. Here are a few examples and some suggestions on how to have a better working relationship.

a) Forming unnecessary opinions about personal, religious, and political views. These are subjects that should be kept private. It is also advisable to not be over-bearing on your personal choices in for example child-rearing. If a mother chooses to "not breastfeed", this is a personal decision and completely up to the mother. Showing disdain to the mother will only make her feel bad and uncomfortable with her decision.

b) Gossiping about the family's lifestyle to others such as household workers. What your boss does in the house is private and should remain there. Telling others of your perception or observation, whether it is true of false is harmful and disrespectful. It truly isn't your place as an employee to discuss the family's activities unless the cause for concern is serious, in which case, you might consider leaving the job and notifying the authorities.

c) Taking advantage as it relates to time and responsibilities. If you are entrusted with a list of duties that you agree to perform for the salary provided, it is your job to fulfill every duty to the best of your ability and to arrive on time and work the hours agreed to. Employers are also capable of taking advantage and should realize that this could cause an employee to quit.

d) Forgetfulness and Lack of Attention to Details - It is not easy to remember everything that you must do, but that is why man invented "paper and pen" so that you could utilize both to record anything and everything necessary. I recommend that all employees form a "household working manual" describing everything that is required by the employer. This can be something that is updated on a regular basis. You can review this daily, weekly and even monthly as needed to stay on top of your job. A great way to be sure that no one is forgetting important details regarding employment, it is suggested that an employment agreement be in place.

e)Review Sessions - It is mandatory that problems and issues do not fester between the employer and employee. Decide on how often is best for you to sit down together and discuss anything that might be of concern. This is a great time to get a performance evaluation to ensure that everyone is happy.

Every attempt while on the job to keep an open line of communication and stay on top of your responsibilities will help you maintain the job you worked so hard to get.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Professional Housekeeping Training - Improve Your Skills Now

2011-01-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

Our housekeeping classes are filling with eager students who want to improve their skills in every aspect of the home. Our Professional Housekeeper Training Seminar teaches:

*Cleaning a home from top to bottom
*How to use proper cleaning products and tools for each surface
*How to do laundry like a professional "Laundress"
*How to Organize every room, cabinet, drawer and closet
*How to set a table and serve properly
*Basic Cooking Skills
*Basic Childcare and Child Safety
*Emergency Procedures and Home Safety

This one day seminar is perfect for anyone seeking a career in become a Professional Housekeeper. With the passing of an exam, you can receive a Training Completion Certificate to add to your resume.

Call us now to save your space and register for our upcoming Seminar on January 15th.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Housekeeping: A Job that Comes Natural to You

2011-01-10T21:22:00.000-08:00

If you are experienced in fields that have nothing to do with Housekeeping, it may be difficult to get someone to take you seriously. Experienced housekeepers are having a hard enough time finding work when people are tightening their budget. To add to the pool of candidates are those who can't find work in their own fields. In reviewing a resume, you may ask, "What makes you qualified to do this kind of work?" The response might be, "Doing housekeeping is something that comes natural to me." Great, that could mean many things. You like to clean and know how to do it reasonably well. You know how to make a bed and keep things tidy. You know how to put in a load of laundry. But does this make you a "professional housekeeper"?

It takes so much more to know how to clean properly and call yourself a professional in the field. You need to understand cleaning products and tools and how to use each one for various surfaces. You need to know how to clean from top to bottom, getting into crevices and cleaning areas that most people ignore. You need to understand how to be a perfect laundress: sorting, washing, folding, drying every item perfectly. You need to know how to organize drawers, closets, cabinets. You need to know how to set a table and serve properly. You need to know how to cook basic healthy meals for children and/or the entire family. You need to know how to do CPR and First Aid in case of an emergency. You need to know how manage your time and work efficiently. You need to know how to manage other household personnel and supervise staff members.

Bottom line, is that being a housekeeper requires many skills that may or may not come natural to you. A trained housekeeper with good experience and references is most likely to be employed firsthand. This is not just a job, it is a profession. Get trained and see how improving your skills will help you get employed.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Housekeeping: Comfy Comforters on the Out

2011-01-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

The comforter as most things worth having started its history in Europe. In the 1700s the French came up with this year-round bed cover that didn't gain popularity in the US until the 20th century. This is when a bed began getting complicated as it took a good 10 minutes to make a bed with all its 14 pillows, quilt, blanket, sheets, bed skirt and comforter. A bed began with all of these components to give it a look that was inviting and "comfy". Now, decades later, down critics see this look as being "lumpy and untidy". Nathan Turner who is in interior designer and shop owner proposes to keep things simple and super-tailored with just 2 pillows. This look still requires a good housekeeper and laundress to make the sheets look crisp and perhaps a few lessons from The Professional Housekeeper to learn how to tuck things perfectly and smoothly.

Truthfully, the new look while clean and simple, is not for me. I like taking the time to put those 14 pillows on the bed along with a quilt and comforter to create a look that is yearning and makes me want to flop into it every time. I want to have fluffy down around me to keep me warm on those cool nights and love the fact you can change your down with a light weight one for Summer months so that you can enjoy the coziness and texture without being overheated. It may mean hiring a housekeeper to help me lay those 14 pillows and put the comforter into the duvet cover. Either way, rest assure, down comforters are not going anywhere but on my bed.

http://www.martaperrone.com

What If Automated Cleaners Replace Housekeepers

2011-01-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

What would you think if all housework could be completed simply by an automated system made to work magic completely on its own? Let's enter that world for one minute to see what it would bring us.

*First of all, we would not worry about whether the housekeeper arrived on time, because time only relates to the moment we program our automated cleaner to work. Just like a coffee maker, you could simply set it up the night before.

*No need to argue with your housekeeper as to why she/he is not accurately doing the job...well, you could argue, but no one will be answering. Eventually, your family member will be wondering about these screaming matches you are having with the automated cleaner.

*You won't need to negotiate prices and salary increase,nor vacation time, nor over time, because the automated housekeeper simply doesn't care about those things.

*It won't be necessary to replace the housekeeper when she/he has personal issues or is ill, because the automated cleaner is always available and never says "I can't be there for you".

Well, sounds good to me so far. There are just a few problems with this robot that is here ready, willing and able to replace the human housekeeper.

Does it pick up the newspaper and make you coffee in the morning?
Does it greet you with warmth and ask you if you would like breakfast?
Does it help you get the kids ready and off to school?
Does it strip the beds, organize the rooms and start the laundry?
Does it clean every room from top to bottom?
Does it put fresh flowers in vases around the house?
Does it grocery shop, make dinner and set the table?
Does it organize your closets, drawers and cabinets?
Does it get into the crevices and corners of every room and clean thoroughly?
Does it fluff up pillows, straighten rugs and pictures and attend to every detail?
Does it leave a home sparkling clean?

Well, until it does, I suppose the good ole fashion "human housekeeper" will have to do.

Baby Obesity Through Cow's Milk

2011-01-03T15:44:00.000-08:00

Formula from cow's milk may actually cause more weight gain. A study done at Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadephia assigned 32 mothers to give their babies a formula based on cow's milk and asked 24 mothers to feed their babies another formula with a smaller and pre-digested proteins that are easier for babies to digest. These formulas are called "Protein Hydrolysate Formulas (PHF)". They have 35% more protein and more free amino acids than cow's milk formulas.

After 2 1/2 to 3 months, the babies that had the cow's milk had higher weight per length and weight per age than babies on PHF even with all the babies starting solid food at the same time. The researchers surmise that the reason for less weight gain is the "free amino acids in PHF do a better job of stimulating receptors in the mouth and gut that signal to the brain that the stomach is full and it's time to to stop eating.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Housekeeping: Benefits of Being Paid Legally

2010-12-16T15:40:00.001-08:00

The nanny and housekeeping profession provides higher salaries than any other segment of the childcare industry which includes daycare, in-home childcare, preschool and even sometimes teaching. Each of these forms of childcare is considered to be paid "on the books". Yet this seems to be regularly avoided until something serious causes an employer or employee to change their position. Breedlove & Associates is a tax and payroll service company for Household Employers. They are the leading company in the nation for this type of service. Here is what they have to say about the "the benefits of being paid legally".

1) The benefits of being paid legally are numerous, and you really can't afford to be without them. As a professional, you should expect nothing less. Once you take a look at the benefits, you'll agree that being paid legally is the way to go!

2) Employment History. Being paid legally creates an employment history that is critical to daily life. If your employment is not documented, it is as if you do not work. An employment history is required for a car loan, a mortgage, a student loan, a credit loan, a credit card application, a health insurance application, an auto insurance application and all future job applications.

3) Unemployment Insurance. When paid legally, you are entitled to receive approximately 50% of your salary up to six months if you lose your job due to no fault of your own. This benefit is free to you as your employer pays the cost of the program.

4. Social Security/Medicare Benefits. For many, taking advantage of these benefits is years away, but consider these tax withholdings as a good investment.

5. Disability Benefits. In many states, you pay State Disability Insurance as a part of the taxes withheld from your pay. If you must take the time away from work due to nonoccupational illness or maternity leave, you are entitled to benefits while you are away from work.

6. Negotiating Salary. Negotiating salary "on the books" can have a positive result, if you are prepared. Your employers are professionals and are used to negotiating before tax salaries, not take home salaries. Talking in gross terms is important as you look at the entire benefit package.

Being legal is not only the law, it also provides great benefits, which you as the professional richly deserve.

Setting a Table - Step 3 to Planning a Dinner Party

2010-11-17T07:21:00.000-08:00

Setting a table is the most fun for me because I enjoy the creative process of choosing and combining china, place mats, napkins and glassware. The party I was planning was for my husband's birthday. Since the focus was his birthday, I decided to choose colors that I knew he would like (gray, black with an exciting plum accent). Here are some tips that I use when setting a table:

1. Set the table either the night before or several hours prior to grocery shopping and cooking. You do not want to be rushed when being creative.

2. Choose the colors that work well with your theme. If there is no particular theme, but maybe just a special occasion, then choose colors that you think would be appealing for the guests. In this case, it was my husband's birthday, and I wanted colors that would be pleasing to him. With his gorgeous head of white hair, I thought of gray and wanted something that had those shades. I chose gray, black and plum as an accent.

3. Begin with the place mat (or table cloth). Choose a color that works well with the china. If your china is complicated, it may be best to choose a place mat that isn't as busy. My plates were simple, so I chose a mat with more design.

4. Pick out a charger that matches the china you are using. With gold rimmed plates, choose a gold, brown or black charger. The charger serves as a liner to the dinner plate, and the salad plate as a liner to the soup bowl.

5. Pick a napkin with color to accent the plates and mat. Napkin rings are fun and make the napkin look great. Open up the napkin and pull the napkin through the ring from the center of the napkin.

6. Take your silverware and set the cutlery from outside in depending on the course you are serving first. Example: the salad fork is on the outside of the dinner fork because it is used before the dinner fork.

7. Glasses come next - consider how many glasses of wine you are serving for each course and place them to the right of the dinner plate. Put each wine glass on the right side of the water glass. The order of glasses would be from left to right: water, white wine, red wine.

8. Choose flowers that pick up the colors of the table, but always include accent colors to give the table a punch. Keep your flowers low so that your guests can see each other. Add fruit or stones in your vases to make it interesting.

9. Lay votive candles all around the table surrounding the flower arrangements. I found these great crystal holders that made the candles look beautiful.

10. Final step is to go around the table and be sure that everything is evenly positioned. Place mats straightened, dishes in the center of each other, cutlery straight, napkins pulled through the napkin rings evenly and fluffed, votives and flowers evenly positioned throughout the table.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Are Tech Savvy consumers ready for a laundry room upgrade?

2010-11-04T17:42:00.000-07:00

We all think about relieving the tedium of everyday chores, just the other day I wrote about the new automated floor cleaning system Mint.

Now news just out from Whirlpool that their new top loading Vantage line ($4000 for a washer/dryer pair) has 33 settings for clothes, blankets and even shower curtains all on a very cool iPod like touch screen.

Bosch, Sears Kenmore brand and LG are among an array of manufacturers coming out with new machines making the laundry room the next battleground for your already stretched credit/debit cards.

My 5-year-old Kenmore’s have 23 settings (I counted) so you can see how the ante is rising. I have at times even gone adventurous with my machines, washing items that claim Dry Clean Only, only to find them cleaned perfectly minus the $10+ cost per item at my local Dry Cleaner.

My laundry room is not the first place I bring guests when they come over, but if you have a need for blackberry or lemongrass shaded appliances I have an avocado side by side fridge just waiting for my Mrs. Paul’s fish sticks to thaw out.

Drunk with Kids in the Car

2010-11-02T19:56:00.000-07:00

When a Nanny or Housekeeper wants to work with a family, it is imperative that she/he provides the family with a driving record. Can you imagine putting your child in a car with a Nanny who has a DUI or speeding tickets, accidents and other violations? Recently in Phoenix, the worst nightmare happened to a couple who had their nanny pick their children and take them to a pool party where she proceeded to drink large amounts of alcohol. She then struck a car and instead of stopping, she fled the scene of the incident. When the police finally caught up to the car, the nanny resisted arrest. The Nanny's blood alcohol level was .201 - triple the legal state limit. The Nanny now faces 3 felony counts of aggravated and extreme DUI. The due diligence you do on every candidate is extremely important. A Nanny may be wonderful, experienced and well-referenced; however, you must still do the driving check, criminal check, and complete background investigation before signing an employment agreement.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Los Angeles County Didn't Report Child Deaths

2010-08-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

The violations involve "potentially dozens" of child fatalities. Interestingly, the investigation was conducted behind closed doors (a violation to the state's open meetings law). The county's inquiry into allegations of abuse or neglect had been open for close to 2 months and exceeded the state's 30 day deadline. Since then, the number of children whose cases have run past the deadline has grown by 1,000. More than 13,000 children are the subjects of abuse investigations that have been open beyond the deadline to close inquiries. Officials have pledged to address the issue of holding children in makeshift areas (temporary quarters) while the inquiries are investigated. The fact that anyone would consider abusing a child is inexcusable. Yet to think that the number of abuses has increased, and that deaths as a result of this have been under-reported due to the County's lack of funding, diligence and failure indicates we have a serious problem on our hands with a child's life at stake.

School Cafeteria Workers Get Culinary Boot Camp

2010-08-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

In the past, cafeteria helpers were mostly trained in "cooking safety" but not necessarily in "cooking". In light of how people are protesting child obesity and unhealthy foods available in schools, now school cafeterias are training their personnel in a "culinary boot camp" learning to cook pork roasts, chicken, vegetables and casseroles. "Cook for America" founder, Kate Adamick also discusses child psychology, nutrition and marketing. They teach time management, culinary math , knife skills and menu planning. The boot camp is one of the several efforts to get more produce and whole grains and more freshly cooked foods onto school lunch trays. Santa Barbara County schools are on the bandwagon due to the Orfalea Fund, a local foundation, who supports the boot camps and follow-up training once the staff returns to school as well as grants for equipment.

Sri Lanka Housekeeper Abused by Employer

2010-08-25T16:00:00.000-07:00

A Sri Lankan housekeeper returned from her job in Saudi Arabia with 24 nails inside her body -- the result of torture by the family who employed her, a doctor and government official said Wednesday.

L.G. Ariyawathi's body is riddled with needles and nails, which are scheduled to be removed Friday, a doctor confirmed Wednesday.

Ariyawathi, 49, returned to Sri Lanka on Saturday from Saudi Arabia and was hospitalized the next day with severe pain at a facility where she told a local newspaper that her employers tortured her with the nails as punishment.

''They (employer and his family) did not allow me even to rest. The woman at the house had heated the nails and then the man inserted them into my body,''

She told the paper that she went to Saudi Arabia in March and was paid only two months' salary, with her employer withholding three months' salary to buy an air ticket to send her home.

The 24 nails are ''inside the body due to torture meted out by her Saudi employer,'' Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, deputy minister of economic development, said in a statement on a government website.

Abeywardena said the government would ''report about this matter to the Saudi Government and provide her adequate compensation.''

Kalyana Priya Ramanayake, a spokesman for Sri Lanka's Foreign Employment Bureau, said that Ariyawathi had been too afraid to complain about the abuse to Saudi authorities, fearing that her employers might not let her return home. She also did not report the abuse to Sri Lankan officials, until she was hospitalized.

The bureau is a government agency that oversees the welfare of expatriate workers.

Working as housekeepers or drivers, Sri Lankan workers can earn higher salaries overseas. About 1.5 million Sri Lankans work abroad, nearly 400,000 of them in Saudi Arabia alone.

How to Get your Child to Say "Yes, I Can, and I Will"

2010-08-05T21:59:00.000-07:00

A great new book on raising a child: "How to Get Your Child to Say, Yes! I Can! & I Will!" by Lesa Day.

In just 10 days create a nurturing structure in your home that will guide your child to become a responsible, respectful individual.

Have you ever thought to yourself:
Do I know the top values I want to teach my child?
Is my communication proactive or reactive?
What legacy am I leaving behind?
What character traits do I want my child to have?

Lesa shows you how to put a system together in 10 days or less to nurture your child. She describes specific techniques you can use daily with the 5 1/2 C's and you're on your way to giving guidance to you child to succeed in their daily growth.

For links to her website regarding the book go to http://www.yesIcanandIwill.com

Wages: Nannies, Housekeepers, Babysitters

2010-08-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

With the flood of unemployed workers, many nannies, housekeepers and babysitters are losing their jobs and finding it difficult to stay afloat. There was a time when they were adamant about making certain wages, but now ready to negotiate. So how how much should you offer your Nanny and Housekeeper? Nannies in Los Angeles are getting anywhere from $12-$25/hr. Wages vary depending on factors such as: driving, communication skills, child development education, years of experience on the job, quality of reference checks, availability for travel in/outside of US, number of children they are watching and ages. Infant care is more specialized and pays more. Housekeepers on the other hand are paid $15-$25/hr depending on size and quality of house, if laundry/ironing is required, and whether they are full charge (needing driving and cooking) or whether they are day cleaners. Most day cleaners charge $15/hr. Wages beginning at $15/hr are usually net of taxes whereas anything higher may be considered a gross wage. It is always important to check with EDD "Employment Development Department" to see whether you qualify for payroll taxes depending on how much an household employer is paying per calendar quarter. Payroll taxes are suggested when required as it protects both the employer and employee. Always be sure to have worker's compensation insurance or some form of protective insurance in the event of injury on the job. http://www.martaperrone.com

No Yelling, No Crying, No Walking off the Job

2010-08-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

A full charge nanny and housekeeper called late Friday night in tears. Her boss had come home in a mad rush eager to get ready for dinner guests that evening. As she drove into the garage, she ran over a toy that was left inadvertently by her child and not picked up by the housekeeper. The employer was naturally upset. She didn't want to have to deal with this when she was already under pressure to get ready for the evening plans. She reacted emotionally and raised her voice; at which point, the employee also responded emotionally, began to cry and walked out 30 minutes prior to her scheduled departure from work. All of this was inappropriate on everyone's part. The toys should not be left in the middle of the garage. First of all, children should be trained to put their toys back. In this case, the child was old enough to know better. The nanny should have been vigilant in checking that the child had followed through. If the child hadn't, then the nanny's role is to ask the child to put the toys to one side, explaining that when mommy gets home and pulls her car in the garage, if the toys are not put away, she might run over them.

Here is more about how everyone was at fault: the mother yelled because she was frustrated, maybe had a bad day, maybe just because she was under pressure about the evening and getting ready for it. Raising your voice at anyone, especially employees wears thin. No one likes it, and eventually, no one will tolerate it. Everything between employees and employers must be handled in a civil manner - it becomes a "conversation". Secondly, the employee was completely unprofessional in turning to tears and leaving the job 30 minutes early. This is an employee/employer relationship, not one that you have with a boyfriend or husband. Tears are inappropriate. If an employee is not happy about her employer's conduct, then this is a "conversation" and should not be an emotional one. When you bring emotion into the equation, you risk elevating the problem and losing sight of how to solve it.

Problems can be solved only by a "conversation" where both parties are understanding of everyone's position and needs and seek to find a solution.

Good Housekeeping: Spot on Advice for Removing Summer Stains

2010-07-29T21:59:00.000-07:00

Summertime means many stains that come with fun like barbecues, picnics and sunning at the beach. Here is some advice provided by Good Housekeeping for the following stains:

Grass stains: take a little of liquid laundry detergent with enzymes and rub into the stain, let it sit 5 minutes, then launder using the bleach (chlorine or oxygen) and very hot water.

Mustard/Ketchup: for Mustard,dip paper towel in cold water and BLOT (don't rub) the stain, use a dab of glycerin and work it into the stain. For Ketchup, flush the stain from the back side of the fabric with cold water. Next, for both apply liquid detergent to the front of the stain and use a toothbrush. Add more detergent as needed and then machine wash.

Fresh Berry stains: immediately sponge the spot with cool water and then later stretch the stained cloth over a bowel or pot in the sink. Hold a kettle of boiling water above the fabric and pour it over the stain (12 inches above). If it doesn't come out, use rubbing alcohol before tossing into the machine.

Sunscreen streaks: apply aerosol-spray stain remover like Shout or Afta.

Think about bringing an on-the-go stain remover pen (Max Force Gel Stick - new from OxiClean)or wipe in case a food stain should occur. Never let a stain linger on the garment in a hamper for days. Treat it as soon as possible and toss into machine.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Will the New Domestic Workers' Bill of Rights be Enforced?

2010-07-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

The first state to recognize the workplace rights of nannies is New York. They will get temporary nanny disability benefits, nanny unemployment insurance, one day off per week and the biggest thing is "overtime". It is quite an achievement for the nannies since they usually get the bum rap. It will be very important that the message gets out to the domestic workers that these new rights exist. They will also need to educate the employers to uphold these rights so that they are enforced. Often, even with laws in place, domestic employees are faced with domestic employers who refuse to abide, leaving employees the choice of taking the job, or not. It is up to both parties to uphold the law that protects us all.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Nap Nanny Recliners Recalled

2010-07-26T18:18:00.000-07:00

Nap Nanny, a portable baby recliners has been recalled voluntarily by its company, Baby Matters due to an infant death. The 4-month old girl from Royal Oak, Michigan died in Nap Nanny that was put into the crib because she was caught between the recliner and the crib bumper. In addition to the death, the infant was trapped between the recliner and the side of the crib. How is it possible that these products get produced and pass inspection? This recliner was marketed to improve sleep, comfort and for medical conditions, including flu.Looking at this Nap Recliner, it seems obvious that this could pose a dangerous problem. If parents happen to own one of these, Nannies, Babysitters and Housekeepers should also recognize what may be hazardous and make the necessary recommendations.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Nanny & Housekeepers: Tips to Find Work

2010-07-20T17:03:00.000-07:00

In this economy, you cannot rely on one resource to find work and must be proactive. You must be able to use all the ways possible. But first, you must have a portfolio ready. Here are some tips:
1) Get a resume together with your most recent job history first and make sure it is updated within the last 6 months.
2) Gather all your letters of reference and call your reference numbers to be sure they are still reachable. Find email addresses for them as well, so that your prospective employer can communicate quickly with your former employer.
3) If you are caring for children, be sure to have your TB and Hepatitis testing completed.
4) Get a criminal check on yourself in the city or cities where you have lived in the past 7 years and have it available in case you are offered a position.
5) Be sure to be CPR certified and have it renewed if expired.
6) Gather any course completion certificates or certifications in child care, or The Professional Housekeeper course.
7) Put together a nice cover letter explaining your work objectives to indicate to an employer the kind of work you seek and your intentions and goals.
8) Have the "perfect" interviewing outfit ready, clean and pressed in your closet so that you can put it on at a moment's notice for any last minute interview calls.
9) Make a list of agencies, job listing services, newspapers, neighbors, former employers and reach out to all of them. Send out resumes to agencies. Subscribe to job listing services and respond to posted jobs and post your resume. Respond to newspaper ads seeking help. Call friends, neighbors and former employers asking their help in getting you work.
10) Be positive, proactive and persistent!!!

http://www.theprofessionalhousekeeper.com
http://www.martaperrone.com

Health Insurance

2010-07-19T14:05:00.000-07:00

Health insurance is an important benefit that every household employee would like to have as a part of their compensation package. There are tax breaks for both the employer and the employee to make this more affordable than you might think. Like all employers, the government encourages household employers to contribute to their employee's health insurance premiums. You can do this by making a portion of the compensation tax free to the employer. Similarly, the employee is not taxed on that portion of the compensation. You have two options: the household employer can choose to be the billing party for the policy, paying the premiums directly to the health insurance company, or the household employer can provide the dollars for premiums to the employee. Either way, the employee savings will be about 20% of the amount of the health insurance contributions and the employer savings will be about 10% of the amount of the health insurance contributions. The tax breaks associated with health insurance create a powerful financial tool enabling nannies and housekeepers to get critical coverage without destroying employer's budgets.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Cell Phone Nunbers go Public in July

2010-07-16T15:28:00.001-07:00

REMEMBER: Cell Phone Numbers Go Public this month.
REMINDER..... all cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies and you will start to receive sales calls.

.... YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS

To prevent this, call the following number from your cell phone: 888-382-1222.
It is the National DO NOT CALL list It will only take a minute of your time.. It blocks your number for five (5) years. You must call from the cell phone number you want to have blocked. You cannot call from a different phone number.

HELP OTHERS BY PASSING THIS ON .. It takes about 20 seconds.

http://www.MartaPerrone.com

Patio Furniture Test

2010-07-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

Michael Finny, the Consumer Watchdog for ABC solves problems for viewers. The latest question is what kind of "Patio Furniture" is most durable in the sun, rain and wind. Mother Nature is tough on every thing outside and definitely accelerates the wear and tear on outdoor furniture. Steel furniture is durable, but also very heavy to move. Rachel Rothman of Good Housekeeping says that aluminum is much lighter and more durable, but also more expensive. "Wicker is very light weight but not always weather resistant." The conclusion: When buying patio furniture, think of 3 things: weight, most weather resistant and expense. You want to be able to move it around easily, keep it as long as possible looking in good condition and not pay too much!!! Plastic just might be the answer!! But if you want it to look good too, then spring for the higher-end "Wicker".

http://www.theprofessionalhousekeeper.com

The New Teacher: Robot

2010-07-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

Children are fascinated with toys that move, so it is no surprise that researchers developing robots who can teach various activities are seeing the possibilities. The innovation is such that the machines are able to learn as they teach which makes them also effective in repetitive therapies that are used to treat developmental problems like autism. In other countries, they are using the robot to serve as an assistant in the classroom and experimenting with having them teach language. They are finding that in many cases, testing the youngsters' knowledge is showing an error reduction of more than 25%. Research in social robotics (a computer science devoted to enhancing communication between humans and machines) find that grade school students are increasing their accuracy when taught by a robot. In San Diego, researchers are working on a robot named RUBI to have 2 main components: mechanical and psychological. RUBI actually can cry when a child tries to harm it (like attempting to take its arms off). With the reaction, the children are backing off at the sound. Apparently it is the machine's behavior that matters in making the child and machine in sync.

As usual, technology advancement brings about an ethical social debate.
Do we really want our children being taught by robots? Would removing the human element to teaching be a problem if you achieve a greater effect to learning?

http://www.martaperrone.com

Housekeepers Alert: Be Good to those Furry Critters!

2010-06-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

Gail Posner who died at the age of 67 in March of this year was an heiress, and quite extravagant during her years alive and certainly thereafter. She has left 8 million pounds of her assets in the name of her dearly loved pet canines. Upon dying, she arranged that her Chihuahua, "CONCHITA" (who happens to have a Cartier necklace worth 10,000 pounds) and two other dogs be left a trust fund of 2 million along with a 6 million beach-front manor in Miami. The will also states that her "defenders" and "HOUSEKEEPERS" will receive a massive 17 million pounds and the right to reside without rent in Gail Posner's property while they nurture the animals. Of course, her son is initiating a lawsuit to invalidate his mother's wishes.

Yes, it is important that Housekeepers love those furry critters and know how to care for them because a "pet" can be far more important than a relative.

DAY CARE CENTERS PACKED

2010-06-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

Sue Shellenbarger of the WSJ writes about the "Day Care Waiting List" dilemma. Parents are begging for admission and putting their unborn children on the waiting list. This essentially means that children are on a day-care waiting list for approximately 2 years. Women, more than ever are in the work force and 11,000 day care centers nationally are full to capacity. It is on a come-first basis, but infants usually have the longest wait lists. As always, siblings of children already enrolled typically get first dibs on openings. The best advice she offers is to 1) register for child care at least one year before you need it, 2) visit several centers and get your name on more than one wait list, 3) enroll all your children at the same place to get sibling priority, 4) call the center monthly to make sure your status is current, 5) leave contact information anytime you leave travel, 6) plan to enroll in summer when more slots are open, 7) be flexible and take any slot that comes available, and 8) stay on your first choice center even if you are enrolled elsewhere.

REMEMBER THE BABY IN THE BACK OF THE CAR!

2010-05-31T16:54:00.000-07:00

It seems astounding that this could be true; the National Safety Council reports that there are about 30 children per year that die of Hyperthermia when left inside vehicles, even when the temperatures are not especially hot. Many of these incidents are as a result of forgetfulness and not just neglect that happen when parents and caretakers inadvertently leave their children in the car. There is an increased sense of awareness around this issue. Jannette Fannell of KidsandCars.org is trying to make a difference by working with Auto Makers to make a reminding device to warn drivers that a child is left behind. However, her efforts to get child-left-behind legislation was unsuccessful. As a result, Kids and Cars is proposing other safety belt latching reminders. The proposed regulation would also mandate child-left-behind warning which could share electronics with the belt reminder. http://www.theprofessionalhousekeeper.com

HOW TO GET ORGANIZED

2010-05-23T21:34:00.000-07:00

Getting organized can be a constant chore if everything in the house is in a disarray. Start with the simple stuff and see how these efforts can make a huge difference:

*Put keys in a bowl at the entry way near door that you exit daily.
*Keep shoes you use often on a wooden or metal rack near door.
*Keep umbrellas stored standing up for air circulation so that they dry effectively
*Buy section boxes for your drawers so that you can keep specific things in them
*Keep your desktop free and clear so that you have room to write, open mail and review files comfortably
*Designate a recycling area that includes containers for newspapers, bottles, etc.
*Keep a list of emergency numbers, take-out menus, notepads, pens near the telephone
*Make sure your nightstand is large enough to hold a book, light, alarm clock, but also have a drawer to conceal items such as television remotes, medicines. A shelf underneath is useful for magazines and books to be read.
*Group your undergarments by type and color in row using a divider or box. Plastic compartments can also be snapped together to customize your drawer.
*Keep our cotton, q-tips, make-up and creams in decorative containers, trays or in a box.
*Keep your utensils on a lazy Susan with compartments for cooking oil, and basic condiments.
*Making meals is easier when organizing canned good by type and maintaining visibility. It makes shopping and replenishing easier.
*Put all spices in a tiered wire or wood spice platform that lets you store them with the labels out.
*Store pots and pans in nesting fashion: smaller one in larger to reduce amount of space.
*Keep tub toys in separate bin near bathtub
*Organize floss, toothpaste and mouthwash in one area of the medicine cabinet
*Use hampers, baskets and separate mesh garment bags for sorting dirty laundry according to what goes to the cleaners, colored and white, hand washing, etc.
*Keep laundry and cleaning supplies separated according to type

Start getting organized!!

OSHA - Injuries in the Housekeeping Industry

2010-05-13T15:09:00.000-07:00

Housekeepers are prone to repetitive stress injuries from such continual work as changing sheets, washing bathroom floors and vacuuming according to several researchers who studied three years of government-related injuries at 5 union-represented hotels. It was surprising that the Hispanic housekeepers had a proportionally higher rate of injuries than the non-Hispanic cleaners, according to the study. But there was no explanation for this. The union - UNITE HERE which represents Hospitality employees funded this research. It has now captured the attention of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Injuries come from lifting patients in nursing homes; lifting mattresses leading to musculoskeletal disorders. In many of these cases, people are not supported with additional staff members to do such lifting or provided with the proper tools and equipment to do the work.

If you have any household employees, it is important that you carry homeowners insurance for injuries in your home and/or worker's compensation for any employees on payroll.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Dangerous Caregiver Database

2010-02-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

If you are wondering if the caregiver you have just hired for your mother is on the "dangerous list", a database for this is now available to hospitals. This database allows hospitals to check for any disciplinary action taken anywhere in the country against nurses, pharmacists, psychologists and any other licensed health official. However, this list may not protect your loved one completely. You should always do a national criminal background check on everyone you hire and check your information against state board licensing websites. Unfortunately, the database may give one "false security" in that not every disciplinary action is reported to the Federal government which makes it incomplete.

Laundry Soap Overdose

2010-01-27T07:34:00.000-08:00

The Wall Street Journal reports that overdose of laundry detergent is causing problems such as dingy clothes and worn washing machines. "Over-pouring makes a foamy tide inside the machine lifting soil and lint above the water level so it isn't rinsed away." Apparently, this is what leaves a residue on the clothes that gives them a faded look. Companies, like Proctor and Gamble are coming out with ways to design caps for detergent bottles that make it easier to be more specific about measuring soap. It is recommended to clean washers monthly using an empty hot-water cycle and either bleach. Also, if it is hard to see the interior line of a cap, then put a marker line on the outside of the cap. http://www.martaperrone.com http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703808904575025021214910714.html

No More Dish Detergents?

2010-01-21T17:17:00.000-08:00

Polymer is a plastic coating that is currently being developed making dinnerware and bathroom mirrors clean with water alone. Something favorable for environmentalists who worry about the effects that soap has on our water system as it washes down the drain. How it works? It is a coating that keeps the grease from penetrating the material underneath. Soap "degreases"- it allows oil on soiled surfaces to disperse into water as an emulsion causing dishwater to cloud up. With polymer, the oil is displaced without soap. Similar coatings may be used on glasses, car windshields and bathroom mirrors to resist fogging and making it easier to clean.

http://www.martaperrone.com

Classes Begin in February

2010-01-21T10:30:00.000-08:00

Classes will resume in February at Domestic Connections Agency for Nannies and Housekeepers to receive training in all areas of the household: cleaning, cooking, laundry, basic childcare, table setting and more. We will also cover career development tools. www.martaperrone.com to register.

Professional Domestic Seminar

2009-11-09T15:18:00.000-08:00

Our next all day seminar is November 21st for those who want to further their knowledge on how to better prepare you for a position as a Housekeeper/Nanny/Cook and/or Laundress. We cover labor codes, employee/employer agreements, preparing a resume, qualifications, and provide training in cleaning, cooking, laundry, table-setting, and more. Go to www.martaperrone.com to register!

NEW CLASS SCHEDULE FOR JULY

2008-06-28T13:47:00.000-07:00

We are continuing to do classes for all Nannies and Housekeepers to learn more about their field. These courses are one day, 5 hour workshops given on Saturdays and Sundays. There are only 10 people per class making the session intimate and providing individual attention. Lunch is served and a Certificate of completion is given to everyone who attends.

Do not miss an opportunity to learn more about your career and how to improve your skills.

You will benefit from the lectures and open discussions.

You will walk away better equiped to deal with all the challenges you face when looking for work and dealing with issues concerning your employment.

Sign up on line or call the office to reserve your space.
TELEPHONE (818) 784-8102

REGISTRARSE AHORA!!!
DOMESTICA PROFESIONAL PROGRAMA CERTIFICADO

PAGO POR CHEQUE O POR VISA

Julio 19 o Julio 20 Curso 1 –Escoger El Trabajo Y Preparacion
Julio 26 o Julio 27 Curso 2 –Aceptacion de la Oferta de Empleo
Augosto 9 o Augosto 17 Curso 3 - Limpieza y Lavanderia

$50 Cada Clase – incluye almuerzo

LLAMA AHORA PARA RESERVAR ESPACIO:
TELEFONO (818) 784-8102

Elements to Becoming a Professional Domestic

2008-06-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

Professionalism: What exactly does this mean in any career? If you do not have a clue, then it is time to think about this concept. In today's very competitive and economic times, being on top of your game may make the difference between you getting that job and/or keeping the one you currently hold.

Here are some tips on how to to become and stay "professional":

*Be Punctual - arriving late is clearly a problem for most people, whether you are attending your first interview to getting to the job everyday. There are always potential hazards that can cause delays, but every effort to be punctual at all times is important.

*Be Reliable - when you say you are going to do something and/or be somewhere, others are relying on you to do so. This is what gives you "integrity" and makes you someone that others can count on.

*Be Honest - any hint of storytelling or blatant lying is not looked upon favorably. It may be hard at times to reveal the truth, but you are more respected for coming clean on any issue, then your grand efforts to circumvent the facts. Being trusted is clearly admirable and valuable in any relationship you cultivate.

*Be Hardworking - slacking off in anything you do is viewed as laziness. You may begin strong and put all your efforts forward, but if you ultimately stop doing so, the efforts from the start will be forgotten. All that remains in one's memory is your current level of productivity. A constant and continued effort to remain hardworking is necessary.

*Be Pleasant - your attitude is crutial to having others want to remain in your presence. We all have personal concerns: bringing them to work is distracting and troubling to others. Stay focused on the job. Your pleasant nature will reflect a positive demeanor: one that your boss, colleagues and even friends will admire.

*Be Flexible - things will not always pan out as planned. Your ability to roll with the punches may be necessary not only in a working environment but in life itself. Rigidity can be stifling and viewed upon by your boss as the inability to adapt to change. Certain routines at work can be comforting; however, a path not ventured could also be interesting and challenging.

*Be Smart - "knowing is not knowing", a thought provided by a well known guru/philosopher, Krishnamurti. If you think you know everything, you obviously know very little. A continued effort to learn about your field and further educate yourself in your carrer can only help you be better at what you do. An effort to learn something new will also help you expand your talents and qualifications - perhaps even making you "indispensable".

Interviewing

2008-05-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some tips on how to interview so that you are making the best impression firsthand.

1) Know where you are going and be sure to have proper directions via mapquest or the THomas Guide. If possible, take a drive there before your interview to be sure you know the location.

2) Dress appropriately: no excessive jewelry, make-up, medium to low closed toe and heeled shoes, no short skirts or dresses, no cleavage, mild solid colors (black and white is always impressionable), no gum, no sunglasses on the head, no strong perfume or lotions.

3)) Bring all your references, letters, identification, cpr card, diplomas, certifications so that the prospective employer sees all your qualifications.

4)) Arrive on time and that means "ON TIME" not early, nor late.

5) Introduce yourself using your full name and give a firm shake of the hand when you first greet the employer.

6) Wait for the person interviewing you to direct you where to sit and speak and wait for him/her to sit down before you do.

7) Do not cross your legs, sit tall in your chair and keep very focused on the prospective employer. Do not have wandering eyes. Keep your body facing the person interviewing you. Do not fidget around in your chair.

8) Begin by presenting your resume and qualifications.

9)Answer the questions carefully, with some detail, but never overdoing the answer to the point that you become a "chatty Cathy" or "chatty Harold" - be succinct in you responses.

10) Be prepared to ask questions. Employers like the fact that you have questions about the job and family.

11)) Ask to meet other family members, if present. Attempt to bond with them as well.

12) When the interview is over, share with the employer your interest in the position.

13) End the meeting expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and how you look forward to hearing from them soon.

14) Stay in touch with the prospective employer on the progress of any other interviews you have had as well as checking on their decision. Be polite and courteous at all times.

15)If you are turned down for the job, keep the door open by expressing that if the other candidate doesn't work out, to be sure to contact you in the event you might be still available (if you go through an Agency, they will do this for you).

GOOD LUCK and STAY POSITIVE!!!

References

2008-05-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

Sometimes an applicant will be very concerned about reference checks and worry that if they give the reference number for a previous employer who is not prepared to give a glowing reference that they will not get the next job. The alternative is then to "lie" about the reference. The problem with that scenario is that a lie always catches up with you and ultimately it is the lie that ruins your reputation and prevents you from ultimately getting work.

It is clearly a problem when a previous employer is disgruntled and wants to sabotage you from ever finding work again. However, this would be "illegal". An employer may not have had the best experience with someone, but short of some serious offenses like, stealing, lying, and hurting one's child, it is preferable that the employer make an effort to provide a reasonable reference. What is mandatory by the Labor Department is that the employer state the facts regarding "employment verification." In other words, the employer is obligated to state the dates of employment and duties thereby verifying that the employee indeed did work for the employer the designated time performing certain tasks.

So what should the employee do when she/he suspects a "bad" reference? My suggestion is to sit down and ask politely that the employer please give you the benefit of the doubt and while you may not have another chance with this particular employer, you are asking to please provide you with a reasonable reference so that you may get the opportunity to work again. This is a good time to "apolgize profusely" for whatever you did to upset your employer.

What should the employer do when he/she simply does not feel it possible to give any good reference besides the mere verification aspect of employment? My suggestion is that the employer find it in your heart to forgive and provide suggestions as to how one can improve their work ability, ethics, etc. and make the next job successful. If you can improve one's life and be the one to teach another how to do something that will improve their livelihood, doesn't this make you a better person? This person may not be right for you, but you can certainly help this person find the right match and offer suggestions.

It is not a good thing when any relationship ends in such a sour note that no one learns nor gains anything from the experience.

WORKSHOP/SEMINAR

2008-02-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

We are beginning a new series of Seminars for both the Employee and Employer. March 2nd is our first of this series primarily directed to the domestic seeking information on how to become more professional in their career as a Housekeeper, Child Care Provider, Companion and more. This seminar will cover recurring issues that due to lack of information often cause problems in the employee/employer relationship that lead to termination. Despite the fact we are regulated by the Labor Code and various IRS Laws, there are many more standards that can be implemented to help create and maintain a long-term mutually-satisfying employee/employer relationship.

All employers and employees would benefit from this seminar as we discuss, learn and work together to solve the concerns and issues that we face daily when hiring and working as domestics.

Go to www.martaperrone.com to read more about the upcoming seminar and register.

Predispositions May Be Discriminatory

2007-11-19T20:57:00.001-08:00

Often I will hear a client have a list of predispositions when making a special request to hire someone. For example: "I want my nanny to have no small children, over 40, from a certain country, unmarried, and in good physical shape." (Sometimes, there are a few more requests that I prefer not to mention.) Clearly when a person uses an agency, the hope is that these requests remain private to any potential candidate; however, the criteria itself can be a bit stringent and ultimately perceived as discriminatory. The justification for not wanting a person who has small children is the concern that a domestic may be encumbered with certain responsibilities causing interference with the job. Wanting someone of a certain age is just a perception of someone being long term or of an age that relates to a level of energy. The country issue is a reflection of some past experience with another employee from a place where perhaps all people must be the same. Requesting a person who is in good shape often relates to aesthetics and/or stamina. All in all, you can make any justification you deem appropriate for any of these requests; however, each and every one of them is very confining and often can exclude a wonderful candidate. Legally speaking, most of these requests are simply against the law. Think of it in this way: there is most likely a wonderful domestic who is married with small children, of a certain unpreferable age, who comes from a country where there are exceptions to every stereotype and who just might appear like a membership to the local gym is welcomed.

Needlessless to say, we are not dealing with widgets. We need to focus on one's experience, references, personality, education and abilities as they relate to the position you are offering. Beyond that, I think we are getting just a little too personal.

Choosing or Needing Work

2007-10-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

It is always heart-breaking when we suffer periods of time where jobs are scarce and the multitude of people who flood our phones are pleading for work...any type of work. Yet there are so many other times when jobs are quite plentiful and the employees become very picky about what jobs they choose to take. For example, "I want to work as a Nanny and do not want to do any housekeeping." My response is always a bit disappointing because there is always a certain amount of cleaning associated with childcare and there is sometimes a little bit of childcare associated with cleaning. It is clear that the reason why many domestics have become adamant about the delineation of duties is because so many employers have tried to get each applicant to do the impossible - everything and anything. Always dependent on the number of children present, the age of the children and the size of the home, we can estimate just how much one individual can accomplish. The best approach is for the applicant to see and test the job to assess just how much is required while the employer should be flexible to make necessary changes with perhaps additional help once per week so that everyone is happy and the house is running smoothly.

Being flexible, having a great attitude and being willing to make things work is the key to a positive and successful employee/employer relationship. Always better to consider every job opportunity that is placed before you than to find yourself without work and wishing you had reconsidered turning so many away.

Quitting Without Notice

2007-10-03T10:29:00.000-07:00

When an employee quits randomly it can cause tremendous stress to the family that is counting on her. Especially when there are two working parents. This creates not only a problem for the employer but also ends the relationship in an unpleasant manner. An employee should know that a reference letter is not always available when an employee quits like this and that reference letters are crucial for future jobs. Even if the employee is already situated with a new position and thinks that the reference letter isn't necessary - think twice. At one point, this job will end and you will wish you had a good reference for all jobs when seeking a new one.

Notice should be provided by both parties. Employers must be sensitive to an employee's economic status and potential hardship when a gap exists between jobs. Employees should be considerate and provide sufficient notice so that the employer can replace the position without any additional stress. There are many reasons for quitting and being terminated that may be unavoidable; however, dealing with the situation in a professional manner is what ultimately counts.