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Hiring for the First Time? Here’s What You Should Know

So, you need help. Maybe you’re moving and need a few extra hands. Maybe your business is slammed and you need someone to pitch in. Or maybe you just really, really don’t want to clean out your basement.

Whatever the case, you’ve landed here on Cash Jobs Philly — and now you’re about to do something a little different:

You’re hiring someone.
And if it’s your first time, you probably have questions.

The good news? It’s easier than you think. Here’s a quick, no-fluff guide to help you hire your first worker the right way.


1. Be Clear About the Job

The #1 mistake new posters make? Being vague.

A good job post doesn’t need to be long, but it does need to answer the basics:

  • What needs to be done?
  • Where is it happening (rough location)?
  • How long will it take?
  • What’s the pay?
  • How should the worker contact you?

Example of a solid post:

“Need 1-2 people to help load a moving truck in South Philly this Saturday at 9am. Should take 2–3 hours. Paying $80 per person. Apply/message for more details.”

That kind of post will get real replies from real people. Fast.


2. Pay Fairly (It Makes a Difference)

You don’t have to overpay, but underpaying guarantees ghosting.
This isn’t 2005 — most people aren’t showing up for $10/hr unless it’s a super easy gig.

Here’s a rough guide for common jobs:

  • Moving or heavy lifting: $20–30/hr
  • Yardwork: $18–25/hr
  • Cleaning: $20–25/hr
  • Handyman help: $25–40/hr depending on skill

Want people to show up, show out, and maybe come back next time? Respect their time with fair pay.


3. Be Ready to Communicate

You don’t need to be glued to your phone, but once you post a job:

  • Respond to messages quickly
  • Confirm the details clearly
  • Be respectful — workers are people, not robots

If someone reaches out with questions like “What’s the address?” or “How long will it take?” — answer them. The clearer you are, the more likely they are to show up ready.


4. Pick a Payment Method Upfront

Whether you’re paying cash, Venmo, Zelle, or any other form, let them know ahead of time.

Most workers are flexible, but they’ll want to know how and when they’re getting paid. If you’re paying in cash, have the money ready. If it’s digital, double-check you’ve got the right app installed and funds available.

Need help choosing? Check out our blog: Cash vs. Venmo vs. Zelle – What Workers Prefer


5. Be Respectful — and You’ll Get Great Results

You don’t need to be overly formal. Just:

  • Be on time
  • Have the job ready to go
  • Say thanks when it’s done
  • Pay what you promised, when you promised

You’d be surprised how many people become “regulars” for employers just because they’re easy to work with. You build a reputation too.


6. Safety Is a Two-Way Street

If you’re meeting someone for the first time:

  • Make sure the location is clear and safe
  • Avoid asking anything sketchy or personal
  • Keep communication on the platform until trust is built

We monitor listings for anything that seems off, but you should still trust your gut and treat workers with the same respect you’d expect.


Final Thought: You Got This

Hiring someone doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, Cash Jobs Philly was built to make it easier — for people like you who just need help with real work, not HR headaches.

Write a clear post. Offer fair pay. Communicate. And don’t stress. You’re not trying to start a business empire — you’re just trying to get stuff done.


Ready to post your first job?
It takes about 2 minutes. No resume review. No middlemen. Just people helping people.

Post a Job on Cash Jobs Philly Now