How Do I Fire My Cleaning Woman?

Posted: Wed, Dec 29 2010, 6:09 pm Post subject: How Do I Fire My Cleaning Woman?

My cleaning lady was doing a lousy job so I decided to let her go. Being the wimp I am, I didn't tell her I'm firing her. I told her I was going away the next week (which was last week) and that I would call her when I needed her next. The last time I did this, the woman was smart enough to get the hint. This woman is even smarter and she called this afternoon to ask if she should come back. I didn't realize who I was talking to and thought she was the new cleaning woman, so I said, "Yes, sure, why not?"

When she responded, "Okay, I just wanted to know," I realized my mistake but I couldn't tell her to forget it. Instead I told her to come for just one hour to do some ironing because we're having a party tomorrow (which is true.)

Now I need to get rid of her once and for all. What do I tell her? Isn't it rude and cruel to say I'm not happy with your work so you're fired? How can I be tactful and diplomatic?

Posted: Wed, Dec 29 2010, 6:12 pm Post subject:

Tell her you are broke, and can't afford her anymore. That is, if you really want her confidence to stay intact. If my cleaning lady wouldn't do her job as I see fit, I wouldn't care to hide the truth from her so much. She always has the choice whether to try a little bit more to meet my expectations.

just say you don't need her any more and give her a goodbye gift. (unless you already gave her a holiday gift)

my beloved cleaning lady just fired me. Sad

She's going back to her home country. She gave me a replacement but who knows if she will be as good. Sad

Diamond Member Joined: Aug 07 2006 Posts: 2556

Gold Member Joined: Aug 11 2010 Posts: 1295

Diamond Member Joined: Apr 27 2006 Age: 30 Posts: 2537

just let mine go too...told her it was due to the fact that I'm not working anymore and therefore don't have the paycheck to pay her. why make it personal? I didn't bother telling my lady how work needs improvement, why bother? it just makes things more diffcult, and uncomfortable. just make it into a money thing.

Gold Member Joined: Nov 26 2006 Posts: 2307 Location: NY

OMG sarahd you sound like me!! Thats something I would totally do! I have major issues with confrontation. (surprising huh? seeing as im so confrontational on imamother LOL. irl I am NOT confrontational.)

Gold Member Joined: Mar 30 2008 Posts: 1426

When I wanted to fire my cleaning lady, I was advised not to give her any notice, as some cleaning ladies may steal from you during those weeks, or at the very least, do an even worse job.

Instead I just gave her 2 or 3 weeks' money there and then and said I'm really sorry I won't be needing her any more. I just couldn't lie and say I didn't have the money. I don't think lying in this situation is justified.

Posted: Thu, Dec 30 2010, 5:09 pm Post subject:

Thanks all. When she left today she asked me if she should come next week and I told her no, if and when I need her again I will get in touch with her.