New Staff Orientation Guide 2014

You should be aware of the following as you search: - Check that the water pressure is adequate.

- Check that there are air conditioners in the living areas and bedrooms (sometimes these are “two-way” – heating and cooling). Ceiling fans are an added bonus. Sometimes it is necessary to pay to put extra A/C units in the houses.

- Check that security on the house is adequate, that doors and windows lock.

- It is almost impossible to move to a property in Ha Noi that will not have some nearby construction happening but if there is an obvious empty block next to or nearby a property in which you are interested, think twice!

House staff Adjusting to life in Vietnam is much easier with the assistance of house staff. Most teachers employ someone to clean and do the laundry, help with the shopping and to cook if desired. It is really up to you and your budget. House staff are generally not difficult to find. Word of mouth is usually the best way of locating house staff – someone always knows or knows of someone who is available.

Expect to pay between 200-300 USD per month (five days per week, excluding weekends) per staff member depending on the level of experience, whether or not you require cooking and the English competency of the employee. Wages are generally paid at the end of the month.

Staff hours can be arranged to your requirements. By law, a bonus must be paid to employees once a year – generally at TET. Household goods Many items you will need are available here readily and cheaply. These include: • electrical appliances • basket ware • crockery and ceramics • glassware • computer hardware