@ Nannyde,
Seems like you have to be pretty firm with your staff, but it seems to be working alright for you!
$50 extra a week to feed your staff member is crazy... I would reconsider if the cost was that high.
Also, I like my staff to feel wanted and needed. However, I need to remain the authority/ leader figure in all aspects. I find when you give respect you get respect and I know as an employee I would want to feel both needed and wanted. Being paid well, good benefits and perks aren't everything to me IMO.
As a follow up my assistant wrote an apology letter and a letter stating her goals and how she will meet them ( didn't ask her to)
She has also really been on the ball and said she appreciated our talk and now better understands her job and duties
I am going to remain positive and see how her review goes at the end of her probation- maybe she just needs more guidance and 'training' on my part before I let her have so much freedom