Renewing your helper’s contract can feel like a tough decision.
You want to keep her happy, but you also need to be fair to yourself and your family.
In this situation, where your helper has been with you for some time, it is important to find a middle ground between rewarding her loyalty and keeping expectations reasonable.
Understanding Her Current Performance
First, let us think about how your helper has been doing so far.
She has been dependable in many ways.
No major issues, no attitude problems, and she is always willing to help.
These are valuable traits that should not be overlooked.
However, you have noticed some areas where she could do better.
She is not very thorough with cleaning, and you often need to remind her to complete tasks properly.
She also spends a lot of time on her phone, which can be distracting.
How much do these issues impact your daily life?
If keeping your home clean is very important to you and she is not meeting your standards, this should weigh on your decision about a pay raise.
On the other hand, if her positive attitude and willingness to help are more important, then that should also be considered.
Deciding on the Pay Raise
You mentioned that she currently earns $630 with two days off, and you are thinking about a $30 raise. (About 5%)
Let us take a closer look at this.
A $30 increase might seem small, but it does show that you appreciate her work.
If her performance has been steady, even if not outstanding, then $30 could be a fair amount.
It is not overly generous, but it does acknowledge her efforts.
However, if you believe that her cleanliness and phone use are areas where she needs to improve, you might want to pair the raise with a conversation about your expectations.
This way, the raise is not just a reward, but also a motivation for her to do better.
The Importance of Communication
Before you finalize the raise, have an honest talk with your helper.
She might not have a specific amount in mind, which gives you a chance to discuss her work and what you expect in the future.
Explain why you are offering the raise and what improvements you would like to see.
For example, you might say, “We appreciate all the help you give us, especially with the kids and your positive attitude. However, we would like you to focus more on cleanliness and try to reduce the time spent on your phone.”
This conversation should not be negative.
It is about setting clear expectations and making sure she knows that the raise comes with a commitment to improve.
Thinking About the Long Term
When deciding whether to keep your helper for another two years, think beyond her current performance.
She knows your routines and has not caused any major problems.
Finding a new helper can be risky because you do not know how well she will fit into your home.
So, ask yourself: Is the convenience of keeping someone who understands your family worth the raise?
Are you willing to work with her to improve where she falls short?
If the answer is yes, then the raise, along with clear expectations, might be the best way forward.
Moving Forward: What to Keep in Mind
When you decide on a raise, look at the big picture.
Think about her reliability, attitude, and how her shortcomings affect your home.
If you find yourself constantly reminding her, ask if this is something you can continue doing, or if she can realistically improve with time and guidance.
Consider how your family feels too.
If your husband and mother are losing patience, involve them in the decision.
Their input can help you decide if a raise is justified and how much it should be.
Making the Right Choice
In the end, how much you raise your helper’s salary is a personal decision.
It depends on how much you value her work and how willing you are to address the areas where she needs to improve.
A $30 raise might be just right if you think she has room to grow and you want to encourage that growth.
But do not forget to communicate your expectations clearly so that both of you are on the same page for the next two years.
So, what will you do?
Will you give her the raise and hope for improvement, or will you address the issues first?
