Even if you have experience with hiring domestic staff, there are mistakes you could potentially make that could prove disastrous for your household. Many of the mistakes are avoidable by carefully weighing your options and knowing what pitfalls to avoid. To help you with your staffing needs, here are some mistakes to watch out for.  

Hiring Without Completing Background Checks

When you hire someone to fill a domestic staffing role, you are entrusting them with the safety of everyone that is in your home. It is imperative that you take the time to complete background checks before you allow someone to begin working in your home.  

A background check needs to be thorough. If the screening does not check for every aspect of the person's background, you need to find a new one. Once you have the results of the check, you can compare it to the resume that was provided to you. If the applicant was less than honest, it could be a sign that he or she might not be trustworthy. 

Waiting Until the Last Minute

Ideally, you should start your search for new staffing a few months before you actually need people to fill the necessary positions. If you wait until the last minute, you could make a rushed decision that could have serious consequences for everyone.  

By beginning your search at least a month before the position needs to be filled, you give yourself more time to complete reference and background checks. You also have the opportunity to conduct second and third interviews if you feel they are necessary.  

Not Confirming Work Eligibility

Even if you have no political endeavors, hiring someone who is not legally eligible to work in the country could land you in hot water with the government. As an employer, you are charged with ensuring that everyone who works for you has the proper documentation to prove he or she is eligible to work. 

In addition to collecting copies of the documentation, you have to confirm that it is legitimate. For instance, you have to verify that the Social Security number you received matches the employee. If not, you could face legal ramifications.  

There are other mistakes that could be harmful to you and your household. To avoid this, consider hiring a domestic staffing agency. An agency has procedures in place that will help to weed out people who are not qualified to work and help you find those who are capable of doing the work that is needed.