Summary
Little things go a long way to build trust. Jaimee Hart, our Co-Founder and Chief Care Educator, shares 8 simple ways you can show care and professionalism when providing in-home services.
Kia ora, I’m Jaimee, Co-founder of Homecarelink. As a busy mum, I know how important it is to feel comfortable with the people we invite into our homes. Whether it’s for cleaning, childcare, pet care, or support work – families are not just looking for jobs to be done. They want someone they can trust. That’s why Homecarelink exists: to connect families with helpers they feel safe with. Here are some simple ways to go the extra mile and build strong, trusted relationships.
1. Be reliable
Families need helpers they can count on. Arriving on time, or letting them know if you’re running late, shows respect for their schedule. For some clients, even a small delay can cause anxiety — a quick message through Homecarelink can help them feel reassured and valued.
Clear communication builds trust before you even step through the door.
2. Listen carefully
Every family has their own way of doing things. A parent may want toys tidied a certain way, or a pet owner may have a favourite walking route. Paying attention to these small details helps families feel understood.
Small details can make families feel truly heard and valued.
3. Keep messages simple
You don’t need long updates. Short, friendly notes are enough. For example:
“Kitchen cleaned and all tidy.”
“The kids had fun at the park today.”
These simple updates give families peace of mind.
A short, friendly message can give families real reassurance.
4. Respect the home
When you’re in someone’s home, treat it with care. On your first visit, it’s always a good idea to ask questions about how they like things done:
– Do they like shoes taken off before entering?
– Where do they prefer items to be stored or tidied?
– Any areas to focus on or avoid?
Asking these questions helps create clear boundaries, shows you care and respect their home, and makes them feel more comfortable. Always be vigilant and think about ways you can make life easier:
– Place things back where they belong
– Wipe benches
– Tidy up after yourself
– Respect privacy
Asking questions shows you care and respect their home.
5. Build genuine relationships
Trust isn’t built in one visit – it grows over time. Families can feel very vulnerable when they invite someone into their home – whether it’s for personal care, looking after their children, or even pet care. They are trusting you with things that matter deeply to them, and that trust deserves respect, patience, and kindness. Always support independence when possible. Encourage, but don’t be overbearing or pushy. Follow their lead and let them set the pace. When clients feel safe, respected, and encouraged, the relationship unfolds naturally. Over time, your consistent care builds a deep level of trust.
When clients feel safe and respected, trust grows naturally over time.
6. Add thoughtful extras
Going the extra mile doesn’t mean doing much more work — it’s about small, caring actions:
* Refill the pet’s water bowl
* Fold a blanket neatly
* Stack toys tidily
* Leave a short friendly note or uplifting quote for the family to find when they return home
These little extras put a special touch on your service. Families may forget the details of what was done, but they’ll always remember how you made them feel.
It’s the little things that make families feel safe and valued.
7. Be consistent
One good visit is nice — but trust grows when you are consistent every time. Families want to know they can rely on you week after week. Consistency creates strong, long-term relationships.
Consistency shows families they can truly rely on you.
8. Be kind
Many people using Homecarelink are busy, tired, or overwhelmed. A friendly smile, patience, or kind word can make a big difference. Families remember how you make them feel, as much as the jobs you do.
Families remember how you make them feel, more than what you do.
Some final words
Homecarelink is more than a platform — it’s about building safe and caring connections. When you go the extra mile with kindness, respect, and dignity, you don’t just complete tasks — you give families comfort and peace of mind. For some clients, especially those needing personal care or childcare, that trust means everything. By following their lead, encouraging independence, communicating clearly (even if you’re running late!), asking questions to understand their preferences, and adding thoughtful little touches, you can help people feel respected, valued, and safe in their own homes.
– Jaimee, Co-Founder of Homecarelink