We're moving to Shanghai in a week and I would really appreciate some ideas on how to best handle organizing an Ayi.

We will have about one week to find a suitable person and then another 4 weeks which my wife will be able to spend with her before my wife also starts to work. In my mind that means we really means we need to find the right one in the first attempt.

We will be looking for someone to take care of the apartment, the food and such, but (until he starts at kindergarten in about 8 months), most importantly, takes care of our son while we're at work.

What is the very best way to find a good person quickest possible? We have so far been using Ayi agencies, and intend to have some interviews with their candidates just after we arrive. Is this the best way?

What to look for, ask and check and/or demand from the Ayis when interviewing? Any special tips in this area?

Also, it appears Ayi salary is within a rather wide range? Agency said it ranges between CNY 2500-6000 per month depending on English skills, age, experience etc. Does these figures appear reasonable? Agency also appears to charge us for their services, 40% of first month's salary. Standard charge or?

We would of course prefer an Ayi with similar experience since before. Taking care of kids, expat family, at least some basic English knowledge, competent, honest, dedicated etc. Is this asking a lot (I.e. is it hard to find)?

If you are after a part time ayi, it is best to ask either other expats or ask your apartment management office for recommendations. Depending on if you have a good real estate agent or not, they can also often recommend good ayis.

If you are after a full time ayi it is more difficult, and using an ayi agency may be the most efficient way.

Someone may reply to this thread recommending an ayi...it may be useful to include which area you will live.

I think we will be looking for a full time Ayi. At least from the start. We will be living close to Xintiandi.

Thanks for the the suggestions.