Even when there are laws on the books, theres little to no enforcement of those laws.
Undocumented domestic workers are most vulnerable to abuse and exploitationbutalldomestic workers are vulnerable to unfair treatment.
She recommends usingthis living wage calculatorto get an idea of a reasonable wage for an adult in your area.
And if you’re able to pay on the books, you should: Its better for everybody.
She says, In general, we say you should do what works best for you and the worker.
Finally, pay consistently, and on time.
Dont make a worker wait for her check at the end of the week.
Need a sample contract?
The work agreement should be re-evaluated regularly, at least every six months.
Did you think youd be home by 6 but its really more like 6:15?
Would be it be helpful if she starts dinner on Wednesday nights?
That can be built into the check-in.
Does she need a break mid-day and isnt getting it because the kid dropped his nap?
Perhaps the check-in relaxes some screen-time rules.
Its a pressure release, says Berger.
Ongoing proactive communication is really beneficial for everyone involved.
Do we still need to pay the nanny?
Berger says Employers often says things like Shes like family!
but its also anemploymentrelationship.
The Golden Rule applies: How would you want to be treated in your own workplace?
When your boss goes away, expectations change, but you still get paid.
Take a look at theemployers checklist.
In West Virginia, it would be $28.20.
Berger is clear that her organizations (and others) guidelines are a stopgap solution to a profound problem.
Whether you want to or not, youre participating in the system.
Theres no way you’ve got the option to exempt yourself from the social trends of the day.
