Cultural differences go far beyond what we can figure out...

When we think of cultural difference, cooking might come to mind: there is nothing much in common between Western and Asian menus! But the differences extend to topics such as childcare, hygiene, cleanliness, waste management, water utilisation; even words such as “Yes” and “No” have different meanings!

Gaps between cultures lead to misunderstanding...

For example, take a sick person in the Philippines or Indonesia: she gets a massage as the first treatment. But what would you say if a Domestic Helper gave a massage to your sweet son or daughter who had a 39°C fever in lieu of calling you or giving some Panadol?

Western specificity can be a useful tool...

Use your Western ways as an explanation or reason for doing this or that, for example, “In our American / British / German culture, we used to do things this way…” This is a wonderful way to frame a request as reasonable instead of fussy and questionable.

Cultural roots never fade away...

This is true for employers as well as for employees. Even if a helper has been living in Singapore for a long time, you may be surprised by an attitude, a decision, a word in which her culture suddenly erupts provoking a seriously destabilizing effect on your relationship.

Cultural differences are a source of enrichment...

With a live-in Domestic Helper, you can’t get closer to Asian culture. Through her, you will discover a way of life, history, traditions, customs, and etiquette, all valuable when you travel across Asia. For a helper, working with a Western family is a great opportunity to upgrade her skills and enhance her chances to find future employment.

For a first approach of cultural differences, visit the following websites, both from Philipino Domestic workers in Singapore:

www.maidinsingapore.net

http://mchmung.blogspot.com