When you’re hosting service workers – from residential plumbers to cleaners – you want to make their visit smooth, professional, and hassle-free. These folks are on tight schedules, dealing with all kinds of situations daily, so a little consideration goes a long way. 

Here are 3 easy tips to make the experience better for both of you.  

Be Clear About Access and Instructions  

Service workers don’t have time for guesswork. If they’re coming to fix something in your home or drop off a package, make sure they know exactly where to go and what to expect. This means giving them clear directions, unlocking any gates or doors in advance, and letting them know if they need to call upon arrival.  

If it’s a repair job, try to describe the issue as clearly as possible before they get there. A vague “it’s broken” won’t help much—let them know what’s wrong, when it started, and if anything specific triggers the problem. The more prepared you are, the faster they can get the job done.  

Offer a Comfortable and Respectful Environment  

A little hospitality can make a long workday more bearable. You don’t have to roll out a red carpet, but small gestures like offering a glass of water or pointing out where they can wash their hands show basic respect. If they’ll be working in a hot attic or a chilly basement, acknowledge the conditions and check if they need anything to stay comfortable.  

Most importantly, give them space to do their job. Hovering over them can be stressful and counterproductive. If they need assistance or have questions, they’ll ask. Otherwise, let them work without unnecessary interruptions. If you have pets that might get in the way, consider keeping them in another room to avoid any distractions or delays. And, of course, be mindful of any background noise—blasting loud music or having a loud TV nearby might not be ideal while they’re trying to concentrate.  

Handle Payment and Feedback Smoothly  

Nobody likes awkward payment situations. If the job has a fixed price, confirm the amount beforehand so there are no surprises. If tipping is customary in your area, consider leaving a little extra for great service. For delivery workers, a small tip or even a kind word can make a difference in their day.  

If the service worker did a great job, don’t hesitate to leave positive feedback—especially if you booked them through an app or a company that tracks reviews. Good workers rely on solid reputations, and your review could help them get more business. On the flip side, if there was an issue, address it respectfully with the worker or the company instead of leaving a harsh review without giving them a chance to make things right.  

Hosting service workers doesn’t have to be complicated. A little preparation, basic hospitality, and clear communication go a long way. 

Anna Jones
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