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Honoring Our Heroes: A Memorial Day Message from Emily’s Maids

May 26, 2025 by emilysmaids

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend or the unofficial start to summer, it’s a time of reflection and gratitude. It’s a day to remember those who gave everything so we could live in peace and pursue our dreams. Their sacrifice is the foundation of the freedoms we often take for granted.

At Emily’s Maids, we are forever grateful for the heroes who served and gave their lives for our country. Their courage, strength, and unwavering devotion inspire us daily. Not only as Americans, but as people committed to service in our own way. While our work is in homes, theirs was on the front lines, and we are humbled by their example.

As you spend today with family and friends, we invite you to take a quiet moment to remember those who are no longer with us. Light a candle, share a memory, or simply hold them in your heart.

From all of us at Emily’s Maids, we wish you a peaceful Memorial Day filled with gratitude, remembrance, and love.

#MemorialDay #HonorAndRemember #EmilysMaidsCares #GratefulNation

Emily’s Maids Voted Best Cleaning Service in Dallas by The Advocate

March 10, 2025 by emilysmaids

Our readers have spoken. After calculating votes from our LW/ED Best of Local Services 2025 polls, we are delighted to say that you have been selected as a 1st place winner in our annual contest.”

~ per congratulatory email from Alessandra Quintero (see below)

We are thrilled to share some exciting news – Emily’s Maids has been named the Best Cleaning Service in Dallas by The Advocate Magazine! This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our incredible team, as well as the trust and support of our amazing customers.

A Win for Our Team and Customers

At Emily’s Maids, we pride ourselves on delivering top-quality cleaning services with a personal touch. Whether it’s a routine cleaning, deep cleaning, or move-out service, our goal is always to provide outstanding results that make our clients’ lives easier. Being recognized by The Advocate’s Best of 2024 Awards is an incredible honor that reinforces our commitment to excellence.

What Sets Emily’s Maids Apart?

Our success is built on a few key principles:

  • Exceptional Service: We go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction with every cleaning.
  • Reliable and Professional Team: Our cleaners are trained, background-checked, and dedicated to maintaining the highest standards.
  • Clients Rate Our Cleaners: That means our customers get quality-proven cleaner who have demonstrated an exceptional talent in home cleaning.
  • Customer-Centric Approach: We listen to our clients’ needs and tailor our services to meet them.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We couldn’t have achieved this without our loyal customers and the hardworking team behind Emily’s Maids. Your support and feedback push us to keep improving and delivering the best cleaning experience possible. Thank you for trusting us with your homes and for voting us the Best Cleaning Service in Dallas!

If you haven’t experienced the Emily’s Maids difference yet, now is the perfect time! Book a cleaning with us today and see why Dallas trusts us to keep their homes spotless.

Check out the full list of Best of 2024 winners here: The Advocate Best of 2024

10 Ways to Motivate Employees in a House Cleaning Business

January 16, 2025 by admin

Running a house cleaning business comes with unique challenges, especially when you’re working with a small team. While large corporations can offer perks like stock options or extensive travel benefits, small businesses often must rely on creativity to hire cleaning talent and then keep their employees motivated and committed. Here are 10 strategies to help you boost employee morale and productivity while building a positive work environment in your cleaning business.

1. Give Employees the Authority to Make Decisions

Micromanagement can quickly lead to frustration and disengagement. Empower your cleaning staff by giving them the authority to make decisions on the job. Whether it’s adjusting cleaning methods or managing customer requests, letting employees handle decisions within their scope can boost their confidence and job satisfaction. This approach helps them feel trusted and valued, which can directly impact their productivity and quality of work.

2. Offer Flexible Scheduling

In a house cleaning business, flexibility can be a huge motivator. Many employees may have personal commitments, like childcare or schooling, that require flexible work hours. Showing that you trust your employees to manage their time demonstrates respect and loyalty, leading to greater job satisfaction and long-term commitment to your business. Allowing flexible scheduling also ensures your team feels supported in balancing their work and personal lives.

3. Allow Employees to Learn New Skills

Variety in tasks is a great way to keep employees engaged. Offer opportunities for your staff to cross-train in different areas of your business, such as managing schedules, handling customer inquiries, or even training new hires. This allows employees to expand their skill sets, which not only benefits your business but also makes the workday more interesting for your team. Additionally, it can help you identify strengths and areas of growth for each individual.

4. Provide Ongoing Training

Investing in your employees’ development is essential, even for small businesses. By offering training, whether on cleaning techniques, customer service, or safety protocols, you can improve the quality of your services while showing employees you’re invested in their growth. A budget for training shows your team that you’re committed to their development, which can increase loyalty and job satisfaction.

5. Offer Creative Compensation Options

Financial rewards are important, but they don’t always have to come in the form of a direct salary increase. Consider offering non-monetary incentives such as gym memberships, paid days off, or gift cards for services that your employees value. For example, you could establish a referral program where employees receive bonuses for bringing in new customers. These personalized rewards show employees that you care about their well-being and value their contributions.

6. Be Understanding About Mistakes

Mistakes are inevitable, but how you handle them can impact employee morale. Instead of reprimanding employees for minor errors, use these opportunities for coaching and improvement. Employees will appreciate knowing that mistakes are part of the learning process and that they remain valued despite any setbacks. This positive approach encourages open communication and fosters a learning environment.

7. Foster Open Communication

Encouraging open communication is vital in any workplace. In a house cleaning business, it’s particularly important because employees often work independently. Regularly check in with your team to see how things are going, listen to their concerns, and provide constructive feedback. Recognize and praise their good work publicly, and offer private guidance for areas that need improvement. When employees feel heard and appreciated, they are more likely to stay motivated.

8. Discuss Long-Term Career Goals

While house cleaning may seem like a short-term job for some, discussing long-term opportunities can encourage employee retention. Take time to assess their career goals and show them how they can progress within your company. Whether it’s moving into a supervisory role or taking on additional responsibilities, employees who see a clear path for growth are more likely to stay engaged and motivated in their roles.

9. Treat Employees Fairly and Equally

Fair treatment is essential for maintaining a positive workplace culture. Employees want to know that their contributions are recognized and rewarded fairly. Create a system where exceptional work is rewarded, and any issues or policy violations are addressed promptly. Ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to be recognized for their work fosters an atmosphere of trust and respect.

10. Ask Employees What Motivates Them

Sometimes the best way to motivate your employees is to ask them directly. Everyone has different motivators, and by opening a dialogue about what they value in their work, you can create a more tailored approach to employee satisfaction. Whether it’s more time off, special recognition, or flexible work hours, understanding what drives your team can help you create a work environment where they thrive.


By implementing these strategies, you can foster a motivated, loyal, and productive team in your house cleaning business. Employees who feel respected and valued will go the extra mile to deliver excellent service, ultimately helping your business succeed and grow.

Happy Holidays from Our Family to Yours

December 26, 2024 by admin

To all our amazing customers,

As we wrap up another remarkable year, we wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for choosing Emily’s Maids as your trusted cleaning partner. Your continued support and trust in our services mean the world to us, and we’re thankful for the opportunity to help make your homes sparkle throughout the year.

The holiday season is a special time when our homes become gathering places for cherished memories with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting festive dinner parties, welcoming out-of-town guests, or simply enjoying quiet moments with loved ones, we’re honored to play a small part in making your home a comfortable and clean sanctuary during this magical time of year.

The holidays can be busy and sometimes overwhelming. That’s why we’re committed to maintaining our high standards of service through the season, ensuring you can focus on what truly matters – creating joyful moments with those you hold dear.

To our customers who have been with us for years and those who have just recently joined the Emily’s Maids family, we wish you:

  • Peaceful moments in your clean, cozy spaces
  • Joyful gatherings with friends and family
  • Warm cups of cocoa in spotless kitchens
  • And the brightest of celebrations in your sparkling homes

As we look forward to 2025, we’re excited to continue serving you with the same dedication and attention to detail you’ve come to expect from Emily’s Maids. Our team remains committed to exceeding your expectations and helping maintain your home as a haven of comfort and cleanliness.

May your holidays be filled with warmth, joy, and the comfort of a clean casa. Here’s to making more wonderful memories together in the coming year!

Warmest wishes for a happy holiday season,

~ The Emily’s Maids Team

P.S. Remember, we’re here to help with any post-holiday cleanup needs. Just let us know or book online now – it only takes 60 seconds!

Wrapping Up 2024 with Emily’s Maids of Dallas

December 24, 2024 by emilysmaids

Wrapping Up 2024 with Emily’s Maids - Article Cover

As 2024 wraps up, we at Emily’s Maids see the holiday season as the perfect time to reflect, celebrate, and make special memories with loved ones.

Between hosting for loved ones and shopping for gifts, we know keeping your home clean and welcoming is a challenge.

That’s why we’re here! We want to end the year on a high note, and do what we love the most: sharing our cleaning tips and tricks!

At Emily’s Maids, we want to extend a heartfelt message to everyone who made this year so memorable: our clients, our team, and the communities we serve.

Here are some of our thoughts and tips to help you celebrate this season with less stress and more joy, especially as we’re getting ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve!


Reflecting on a Year of Gratitude


Looking back on 2024, all we can think about is gratitude. To our loyal clients: thank you for trusting us to care for your homes. Your incredible support helps us do what we love: helping you create warm, inviting spaces for your loved ones.

To our hardworking team: thank you so much for all the work you do. Your commitment and attention to detail are the heartbeat of Emily’s Maids. A company does not thrive for (almost!) 15 years without hardworking, talented people behind it.

This season, we invite our readers to appreciate the moments that made 2024 special for Emily’s Maids. Whether it’s your quality time spent with your family; or any milestones that you’ve reached, like traveling, running a marathon or getting a promotion.

Even having a peaceful, clean home to unwind in is a moment that is worth celebrating.


How to Deal with a Messy Home for Festivities


The holidays often mean hosting friends and family, but preparation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these simple tips to create a welcoming space:

Clean With Gratitude

As you tidy up your home, reflect on the memories tied to these areas and items.

Your dining table is a piece of furniture where you have shared quality time with your family, so use this opportunity to appreciate those memories as you clean and sanitize your dining area.

Or, you can also vacuum and tidy up your entryway, and think about the guests that you had at home this year and the ones you’ll have in 2025!


Seasonal Swap

Pack away holiday decorations and deep clean your storage areas, especially your closets. This depends on where you live, of course.

If you live in areas like Dallas, January and February are the coldest months, so this is the perfect time to swap some of the lighter winter items, for heavier blankets and coats.


Tidy Up your Digital Space

The digital space is often cluttered and unorganized, but sometimes we don’t think about it because we don’t see it.

Clean your devices, organize your files and remove duplicated screenshots or expired receipts, or old emails that are just not important anymore or nothing that brings any joy or has sentimental value.


Declutter With Purpose

Decluttering regularly helps you keep your home clean and tidy. It’s quite popular to declutter the last weeks of December or even in January. If you feel like it, this is the perfect time for decluttering!

Our suggestion: start with your clothing, move to miscellaneous items, and leave sentimental items for last.

Decluttering opens up your space, gives you the chance to donate and help those in need, and helps you preserve only the items that you love and need in your home.


Deep Cleaning Your Home

Kick off this season with a thorough cleaning. Here’s a pro tip from Emily’s Maids: pay special attention to your floors, especially carpet floors and rugs.

If you don’t have a professional-grade carpet cleaner or upholstery cleaner, you can contact a house cleaning service to do it for you. By deep cleaning your floors, you are also removing all the sweat, odor and bacteria from them.

Pay attention to the areas that you have not cleaned in your home in the last quarter. The most commonly overlooked items and areas are baseboards, light fixtures, and your windows.

These steps ensure your home is holiday-ready, leaving you with more time to enjoy the season with your loved ones.

If you want more tips on how to clean and declutter your home for the holidays, check our article here.

House cleaner scrubbing floors with yellow gloves - Emily's Maids

Looking Ahead to 2025


As we step into 2025, Emily’s Maids commitment to our customers remains unwavering. We will continue to provide exceptional cleaning services. And of course, more cleaning tips! Remember to follow us on Facebook or Instagram so you don’t miss any updates.

Our biggest satisfaction is giving people more time to focus on what truly matters.

We have been crazy busy this month because everyone likes enjoying the holidays with a clean home. And we are beyond grateful for it.

Thank you for being an integral part of Emily’s Maids journey in 2024. From our family to yours, we wish you a happy, stress-free holiday season. Here’s to another year of clean homes and happy memories—together.

From all of us at Emily’s Maids, happy holidays and best wishes for a sparkling 2025!

Quality is Remembered Long After the Price is Forgotten

November 15, 2024 by admin

Quality is Remembered Long After the Price is Forgotten

How Emily’s Maids Embodies the Slogan of the Gucci Family:

Quality is Remembered Long After the Price is Forgotten

Think about the services you cherish most in your life. Chances are, the ones you hold in the highest regard aren’t the cheapest – but they deliver the best experience. This idea is beautifully encapsulated in the phrase “Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten,” a slogan famously attributed to Aldo Gucci and the Gucci family.

When you choose Emily’s Maids, you’re not just paying for a cleaning; you’re investing in a team that values your home as much as you do.

Understanding Quality in House Cleaning

When it comes to house cleaning, quality goes far beyond simply dusting surfaces or vacuuming carpets. True quality means a meticulous attention to detail, reliable and professional staff, and an experience that leaves customers with peace of mind. At Emily’s Maids, quality is not just about the outcome – it’s about the journey, from the moment you book your cleaning to the time you step into your refreshed home.

What Sets Us Apart:

  • Trained and Vetted Staff: Every member of Emily’s Maids undergoes rigorous training to ensure they meet our high standards of cleanliness and customer service.
  • Customized Cleaning Plans: We understand that no two homes are the same. Our team works with you to create a cleaning plan tailored to your needs, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
  • Premium Cleaning Products: We use safe, effective cleaning supplies that protect your family and the environment while delivering sparkling results.

The True Cost of Cutting Corners

Price can often be a deciding factor when choosing a house cleaning service, but focusing solely on cost can sometimes lead to disappointment. Low-cost services may skip essential steps, use subpar materials, or employ poorly trained staff.

The result? You might end up spending even more to fix mistakes or redo an unsatisfactory job. Worse, the stress and frustration caused by poor service can far outweigh any initial savings. At Emily’s Maids, we know that investing in quality upfront ensures our customers avoid these pitfalls.

How We Deliver Value at Emily’s Maids

Quality doesn’t just mean excellent cleaning, it also encompasses trustworthiness, professionalism, and the confidence that your home is in good hands. Here’s how we ensure every customer feels the value of their investment:

  • Consistent Excellence: Many of our clients return time and again because they know they’ll receive consistent, top-notch service.
  • Open Communication: We prioritize clear, honest communication with our clients, addressing any concerns promptly to ensure satisfaction.
  • Long-Term Benefits: A professionally cleaned home isn’t just about aesthetics. It also promotes a healthier living environment, prevents long-term damage to surfaces, and saves you time for what matters most.

Why Quality Matters More Than Price

Think about the services you cherish most in your life. Chances are, the ones you hold in the highest regard aren’t the cheapest, but they deliver the best experience. When you choose Emily’s Maids, you’re not just paying for a cleaning; you’re investing in a team that values your home as much as you do.

This investment pays off in many ways:

  1. Time Saved: With a reliable cleaning service, you can focus on your family, career, or hobbies instead of chores.
  2. Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is in professional hands reduces stress and creates a welcoming space for you and your loved ones.
  3. Lasting Impressions: Whether it’s for guests or your own enjoyment, a spotless home leaves a lasting impression.

Customer Stories: Quality in Action

Our clients often share how our commitment to quality has made a difference in their lives. One customer remarked, “Emily’s Maids doesn’t just clean my house—they take care of it like it’s their own. I never worry about the job being done right.”

Such testimonials remind us that while prices may be compared in the short term, the feeling of stepping into a clean, cared-for home is priceless.

Emily’s Maids: Where Quality Meets Reliability

At Emily’s Maids, we believe that quality isn’t a one-time promise – it’s a daily commitment. Every interaction, every sweep of the mop, and every dusted shelf reflects our dedication to excellence. This is why so many of our customers return to us, not because we’re the cheapest option, but because they know we deliver lasting value.

When you choose Emily’s Maids, you’re not just choosing a cleaning service; you’re choosing a partner who values your home, your time, and your trust. “Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten,” and we strive to make sure the quality of our work leaves an impression you’ll remember—long after the price fades into the background.

Ready to experience the difference? Contact us today and let us show you why quality always matters.

Step 5 of Our Hiring Process: Choosing the Right Candidate

October 21, 2024 by emilysmaids

After diligently navigating the application and interview processes, you’re now at the exciting point of selecting the ideal candidate for your team at Emily’s Maids. Whether you’ve found a gem among the applicants or need to sift through a few more resumes, this step will guide you in making that crucial decision.

Accepting the Right Candidate

Congratulations! If you’ve identified an applicant who ticks all the boxes, it’s time to extend an offer. Here’s how to do it with enthusiasm and professionalism:

  1. Make the Call: Pick up the phone and call the chosen candidate. Begin by “congratulating” them for making it onto your team. A little excitement goes a long way!
  2. Confirm Interest: Reassure them of their continued interest in the position. It’s important to ensure they’re still on board, especially if some time has passed since the interview.
  3. Discuss Compensation: Confirm the starting wage and ensure that both parties are on the same page. Transparency in this discussion helps set the right expectations from the get-go.
  4. Establish a Start Date: Work together to set a mutually agreeable start date for employment. This is your opportunity to create a smooth transition into the new role.
  5. Orientation Details: Explain that the first day will consist of orientation. This is a great way to introduce them to the company culture and prepare them for their new role.
  6. Dress Code: Advise the new hire on how to dress for the job. If uniforms, T-shirts, or aprons will be provided, let them know so they can come prepared.
  7. Welcome Them Aboard: Wrap up the call with a warm welcome to the Emily’s Maids family! A friendly touch sets the tone for a positive working relationship.

Rejecting Candidates with Respect

Not every candidate will be the right fit, and that’s okay. As soon as you determine that a candidate is not suitable, it’s important to communicate your decision promptly and respectfully. Here’s a sample letter you can use for this purpose:


[Emily’s Maids Letterhead]
[Applicant’s Address]

[Date]

Dear [Applicant’s Name],

Thank you for interviewing with me on [Day of Interview] for the Professional House Cleaner position. I regret to inform you that another candidate has been selected.

The decision was particularly challenging due to the high caliber of candidates who applied. This choice does not reflect on your impressive skills and abilities. In fact, you demonstrated [Insert genuine compliments about the applicant here], which made the decision all the more difficult. Unfortunately, there was only one position available.

Thank you once again for your interest in Emily’s Maids. I wish you all the best in your job search.

Sincerely,
[Interviewer’s Signature]
[Interviewer’s Printed Name]


Wrapping Up the Selection Process

Selecting the right candidate is both an art and a science. By following these steps, you can ensure that you not only fill the position but also enrich the team culture at Emily’s Maids with motivated and skilled individuals. With each hire, you’re building a stronger team that aligns with your company’s values and vision. Happy hiring!

Step 4 of Our Hiring Process: Background Investigation

October 21, 2024 by emilysmaids

After successfully completing the in-office interview, it’s time to move on to a crucial step in the hiring process: conducting a background investigation. At Emily’s Maids, we believe in the importance of thoroughly vetting each candidate to ensure we’re hiring individuals who are both qualified and trustworthy. This process helps safeguard our business, our clients, and our team.

Here’s a breakdown of how to complete a successful background check in a friendly, comprehensive way.


Essential Documents for the Background Check

Before starting the background investigation, you’ll need to prepare and have the following forms ready:

  • Background Check Consent Release Form (filled out during the office interview)
  • Employment Reference Questionnaire & Checklist Form
  • Personal Reference Questionnaire Form

Ideally, you should obtain at least two previous work references from each candidate. If the applicant doesn’t have two professional references (which could happen if they’re just entering the workforce), you can turn to their personal references using the Personal Reference Questionnaire.


What Does the Background Check Include?

A proper background investigation at Emily’s Maids involves two critical parts:

  1. Reference Checks
  2. Criminal Background Check

Let’s dive deeper into these two components.


1. Reference Check: Verifying the Candidate’s History

The first step in the background check is contacting the candidate’s former employers or references to verify their work history and performance.

Here’s how to efficiently conduct a reference check:

  • Print out the Employment Reference Questionnaire & Checklist and use it as your guide while speaking with each reference.
  • To ensure the accuracy of the information, it’s a good practice to look up the reference company’s phone number online. Cross-check this number with the one provided by the candidate to make sure you’re speaking with an authentic contact.

When talking with references, aim to gather insights on these key points:

  • Job Performance: Did the candidate excel in their previous roles? Were they a dependable and productive employee?
  • Accuracy: Do the details provided by the references align with what the candidate shared during the interview? This includes aspects such as job responsibilities, employment dates, and reasons for leaving.
  • Positive Contributions: Did the candidate leave a positive mark on their previous employers or colleagues? Does their performance reflect the qualities you’re looking for at Emily’s Maids?

A well-conducted reference check not only provides crucial details about the candidate’s work history but also confirms whether they will be a good cultural and professional fit for the team.


2. Criminal Background Check: Maintaining Safety Standards

Ensuring the safety of both clients and employees is a top priority at Emily’s Maids. Performing a thorough criminal background check helps protect our business from potential risks and guarantees that we’re hiring individuals with a clean record.

Here’s how to perform the criminal background check:

Texas Criminal Background Check

For candidates who have worked or lived in Texas, the criminal background check can be performed online at:

Simply input the candidate’s details to receive a full criminal background report for the state.

National Criminal Background Check

For candidates who may have lived or worked outside of Texas, a national background check is necessary. At Emily’s Maids, we use the following service:

  • Criminal411 National Background Check

A national check will provide insight into any criminal activity the candidate might have been involved in outside of Texas.


No Felons Policy

At Emily’s Maids, we have a strict policy when it comes to criminal backgrounds. Candidates with felony convictions are not eligible for employment—there are no exceptions to this rule. If a felony is discovered during the background check, the candidate must be disqualified from further consideration.


Why Background Checks Are Crucial

Conducting thorough background checks is not just about following procedure; it’s about ensuring the long-term success of our team. Verifying a candidate’s work history and checking for any criminal activity provides peace of mind, helping us build a trustworthy and dependable workforce.

These checks serve multiple purposes:

  • They help validate the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
  • They confirm that their character aligns with the values of Emily’s Maids.
  • They protect our clients and our reputation as a business that prioritizes safety and reliability.

By investing time in this process, you can avoid potential legal issues and ensure that you’re bringing the right people on board.


Final Thoughts

At Emily’s Maids, we believe in hiring individuals who are not only skilled but also trustworthy and safe to work with. The background investigation is a critical step in this journey, helping us ensure that every new team member meets our high standards.

By carefully checking references and running criminal background checks, you can feel confident in the final hiring decision—knowing that you’ve done everything possible to select the best possible candidate for the job.

Step 5 of Our Hiring Process: Choosing the Right Candidate

Step 3 of Our Hiring Process: In-Office Interview

October 21, 2024 by emilysmaids

The in-office interview is a crucial stage in the hiring process, offering an opportunity to get a deeper understanding of your potential team member. This guide will help you navigate the interview process effectively, ensuring you select the best candidate for the role.


Preparing for the Interview

Before diving into the interview itself, prepare the following forms and have them ready:

  • Phone Interview & Evaluation Form (from the phone interview)
  • Team Member Job Description Form
  • Employment Application Form
  • Personal Evaluation Form
  • Authorization for Release of Information Form
  • Company marketing materials (for the candidate to take home)

These documents will help structure the conversation and ensure you cover all necessary details.


Starting the Interview: First Impressions Matter

When the candidate arrives, it’s essential to make them feel welcome. A friendly greeting sets the tone for the rest of the interview. Offer them something to drink—small gestures like this can help ease any nerves and make the candidate feel comfortable from the get-go.

But there’s one rule that cannot be overlooked: punctuality. If the candidate arrives 15 minutes late (or more) without prior notice, it’s best to end the process there. Punctuality is an important quality, and not respecting the agreed-upon time can be a red flag.


Explaining the Job Clearly

Once the candidate is settled, it’s time to explain the position in detail. Hand them a copy of the Team Member Job Description and ensure they fully understand the role’s expectations, challenges, and responsibilities.

This is also a great time to establish an open and honest dialogue. Be transparent about the role and your company, and encourage the candidate to be truthful about their experiences. A simple yet effective statement you can make is:

“I’m going to be very open and honest with you about this job and our company, and I expect the same from you. It doesn’t matter if you’ve ever resigned, been fired, or had difficulty with a former boss—just let me know. We can take that into consideration. But if you hide something and we find out later during background checks, I won’t be able to hire you. Do you understand?”

This helps foster a sense of trust and encourages the candidate to be upfront about their work history.


Reviewing the Application Together

Next, have the candidate fill out the Employment Application Form and the Authorization for Release of Information Form. Be nearby to assist if they have any questions.

Once they’ve completed the forms, walk through the Employment Application Form together. This part of the interview allows you to explore the candidate’s background while using the evaluation symbols (+, , –, X) from the phone interview to rate their responses.

Sitting across a desk can create a barrier, so try to sit next to the candidate instead. This setup makes the conversation feel more natural and relaxed, allowing the candidate to open up more freely. As you discuss each section of their application, ask follow-up questions to clarify any details and assign ratings based on their answers.

Scoring:

  • Perfect Candidate: 150 Points
  • Good Candidate: 105 Points
  • Minimal Candidate: 60 Points (with no “X”)

If the candidate scores below 60, it’s time to end the interview politely, explaining that they may not be the best fit for the role.


Personal Interview: A More Relaxed Conversation

If the candidate scores above 60, it’s time to move on to the personal interview, which should feel more like a casual, open conversation. Your goal is to learn more about the candidate’s values, work style, and how they might fit within your company culture.

Start by putting down your pen and any paperwork. Lean back in your chair, lower your voice a bit, and make the candidate feel at ease. This encourages them to speak freely and honestly, giving you valuable insights into how they think and work.


Behavioral-Based Questions: Getting to Know the Candidate

Here are three key questions to ask during the personal interview:

1. Work Values

“I see on your application that you’ve had a couple of jobs like [insert previous job]. I’ve had a few different roles myself, and what I’ve found is that certain things are always important to me in a job. How about you? What’s been really important to you in the jobs you’ve had?”

This question helps you understand what the candidate values in their work. Are they motivated by independence, recognition, or perhaps job security? These insights will help you assess if they will be a good fit for your company.

2. Handling Stress

“Every job has its frustrations. I know I’ve had some tough days. How about you? Can you tell me about a time you were really upset at work and how you handled it?”

This question helps gauge the candidate’s ability to cope with stress. Look for responses that show they can handle frustration in a mature and professional way. If their answers involve extreme reactions, like quitting on the spot, that might be a red flag.

3. Teamwork

“I’m sure you’ve worked in teams before. For me, working in a group has its ups and downs. What’s been your experience? What did you like, and what didn’t you like about working with others?”

Teamwork is crucial for most roles, and this question helps you determine how well the candidate works with others. Do they enjoy collaboration, or do they prefer working independently? This is important information for making your decision.


Scoring the Personal Interview

After asking these questions, complete your evaluation using the same symbols (+, , –, X).

  • Perfect Candidate: 30 Points
  • Good Candidate: 21 Points
  • Minimal Candidate: 12 Points

If their score is lower than 12, it may be best to end the interview politely.


Closing the Interview

As you wrap up the conversation, give the candidate a chance to ask any questions they may have about the role. If they seem like a strong fit, confirm their interest in the position and explain the next steps, such as reference and background checks.

Don’t forget to thank the candidate for their time, provide them with company materials like brochures or business cards, and make sure they leave with a positive impression of your company—even if you decide not to move forward with their application.


Final Thoughts

The in-office interview is your opportunity to dive deeper into a candidate’s work style, values, and personality. By creating a welcoming environment, asking thoughtful questions, and taking the time to evaluate their responses, you’ll have a much better chance of finding the right person for the job.

Step 4 of Our Hiring Process: Background Investigation

Step 2 of Our Hiring Process: The Phone Interview

October 21, 2024 by emilysmaids

Welcome to Step 2 of our hiring process at Emily’s Maids, where we take a close look at potential candidates over the phone. This step is all about filtering n\out those who won’t be a fit before scheduling in-person interviews. The goal here isn’t just to chat; it’s to find reasons, any reason, not to hire someone (yep, we said it). Let’s dive in!

The Rating System

During the phone interview, we use a simple rating system to score candidates. Think of it as grading, but with more cleaning and fewer essays.

  • +: Highly impressed (+5 points)
  • : Good fit (+2 points)
  • : Possible hindrance (-5 points)
  • X: Not a match (-10 points)

Most answers will land in the “✓” or “–” category. Only give a “+” when the candidate says something that really knocks your socks off (figuratively, of course).

  • Perfect Score: 45 points
  • Good Candidate: 30+ points
  • Minimal Candidate: 18+ points (with no “X”s)

Conducting the Phone Interview

  1. Kick it Off Right: Start by introducing yourself, asking for the candidate’s name, and finding out how they heard about the job. Keep it professional but relaxed—you’re not grilling them… yet.
  2. Fact-Finding: Your job here is to ask specific, closed-ended questions to screen out unqualified candidates ASAP. Look for “blow-out” answers that give you a reason to end the call politely and quickly. Examples:
    • “Do you have a car available for the job?” (Big deal for a cleaning job, right?)
    • “Are you comfortable with hard physical labor?” (We’re not folding laundry here; it’s a physically demanding job.)
    • “Can you work full-time Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, and an occasional Saturday?”
  3. Explain the Job: Give them a rundown of what working at Emily’s Maids is really like. Be honest—this is their chance to screen themselves out if they’re not interested. Example: “It’s hard, physical work. How do you feel about that?”
  4. Dive Deeper: Now it’s time to ask open-ended questions to get a feel for the candidate’s background and how they’ll fit in with the team. You’re looking for work stability, enthusiasm, and some good ol’humility. Try these:
    • “Tell me about your work history and why you left your last job.”
    • “What did you like or dislike about your last position?”
    • “What’s been your favorite job so far, and why?”
  5. Watch for Red Flags: Pay attention to their tone, communication skills, and overall vibe. We want applicants who are humble, eager, and reliable—not folks who hop from job to job or can’t stick to a schedule. Green flags:
    • Previous experience with cleaning companies, hotels, or warehouses.
    • Job stability (no job hoppers, please!).
    • Lives reasonably close to the area they’ll be working. Red flags:
    • Doesn’t have a car.
    • Already has their own clients (poaching risk alert!).
    • Only looking for part-time or extra cash.
    • Rude or disinterested over the phone.
  6. Givers vs. Takers (Optional): Here’s a little test if you want to go the extra mile. Ask the candidate:
    “Can you name four people whose careers you’ve fundamentally improved?”
    • Givers will mention people they’ve helped who were in lower positions—these are the team players you want.
    • Takers will mention people who are more influential, because they’re all about climbing the ladder.
  7. If They’re a Good Fit: If the candidate seems promising and you’re ready to see more, invite them for an in-office interview.

Inviting Them to the Office

  • Compliment what stood out to you (experience, attitude, stability, etc.).
  • Schedule the interview at an odd time (like 2:10 PM or 3:40 PM) to see if they show up on time.
  • Have them write down the details of the meeting and offer directions.
  • Encourage them to call if they have trouble finding the office.
  • And most importantly, express your enthusiasm for having them join the Emily’s Maids team!

With this phone interview process, you’re sure to screen out the job hoppers, the part-timers, and the poachers before they ever set foot in the office. Keep it light, keep it professional, and remember: we’re looking for people who will be with Emily’s Maids for the long haul.

Step 3 of Our Hiring Process: The In-Office Interview

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