HIRE NOW POLICY FRAMEWORK

1.1 HireNow Terms of Use and Agreement

Welcome to Hire Now Technologies Ltd ('Hire Now,' 'we,' 'us,' or 'our'). These Terms of Use & Service Agreement ('Agreement') govern your use of our platform, website, mobile applications, and services (collectively, the 'Platform'). By accessing, registering, or using Hire Now, you agree to abide by these terms.

By using Hire Now, you:

• Confirm that you are at least 18 years old and legally capable of entering into this agreement.
• Agree to comply with all applicable laws, our internal policies, and ethical standards while using the platform.

1.2 Privacy Policy & Data Protection

This policy outlines how Hire Now collects, uses, stores, and protects user data in compliance with relevant regulations such as NDPR (Nigeria Data Protection Regulation), GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), and other applicable laws.

• Data Collection: We collect personal information during registration (e.g., full name, email, phone number, NIN, etc.) and may also gather additional data (e.g., guarantors, transaction history, feedback ratings) to improve service delivery.
• Data Usage: User data will only be used for purposes directly related to the operation of the platform, including but not limited to vetting, matching, billing, and customer support.
• Data Security: Hire Now implements robust security measures to safeguard user data against unauthorized access, loss, or misuse.
• Data Retention: User data is retained for as long as necessary to fulfill platform operations or as required by law. Inactive accounts may be deleted after 6 months of inactivity.
• Breach Notification: In the event of a data breach, affected users will be notified within 72 hours.

1.3 Intellectual Property & Confidentiality Policy

Hire Now owns all intellectual property rights associated with the platform, including software, algorithms, trademarks, logos, and proprietary content. Users may not reproduce, distribute, or reverse-engineer any part of the platform without prior written consent.

1.4 Fair Use & Non-Discrimination Policy

Hire Now promotes equitable access to the platform and prohibits discriminatory behavior based on race, gender, religion, age, socioeconomic status, or any other protected characteristic.

1.5 Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation Policy

To protect Hire Now's business interests, this policy strictly prohibits actions that could harm the platform's integrity, business model, intellectual property, and marketplace integrity & revenue streams.

2.1 Service Provider Agreement & Code of Conduct

This agreement defines the roles, responsibilities, ethical guidelines, and expectations for all service providers working through Hire Now.

• Engagement Model: Service providers are engaged as independent contractors. They are not employees of Hire Now, and the platform does not assume liability for their actions unless they are caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
• Professional Code of Conduct: All service providers must maintain high standards of professionalism, dress appropriately, communicate respectfully, and deliver quality services that meet client expectations.
• Confidentiality Obligations: Service providers agree not to disclose sensitive information about clients, including personal details, addresses, or transaction history obtained during service delivery.
• Compliance with Laws: Providers must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including labor laws, tax requirements, and health and safety standards.

2.2 Background Verification & Qualification Standards

All service providers must undergo thorough vetting before being approved to offer services on the platform.

• Identity Verification: Providers must provide valid identification documents including NIN, BVN, and guarantor details.
• Background Checks: Hire Now conducts thorough background checks, including criminal history and reference verification.
• Medical Reports: Mandatory health checks include HIV, Hepatitis B/C, Tuberculosis (TB), and General Infection tests. Results must be submitted with an official stamp and signature from a government-approved laboratory.
• Training & Certifications: Service providers may be required to complete training programs or obtain certifications relevant to their specialty.

2.3 Performance, Rating, and Service Quality Policy

This policy establishes benchmarks for service quality and outlines consequences for poor performance.

• Service providers must maintain a minimum average rating of 3 stars to remain active on the platform.
• Providers must deliver services in a timely, professional, and satisfactory manner.
• Violations such as tardiness, unprofessionalism, or failure to complete tasks may result in warnings, temporary suspensions, or permanent removal from the platform.

3.1 User Agreement & Acceptable Use Policy

This agreement outlines the rules and expectations for all external users (businesses, families, and individuals) hiring service providers through Hire Now.

• Users must be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to enter into this agreement.
• Users must use the platform solely for its intended purpose: hiring vetted domestic care and maintenance service providers.
• Users must provide accurate and up-to-date information during registration, including full name, email address, phone number, residential/business address, and proof of identity.
• Users must not engage in harassment, discrimination, or abusive behavior toward service providers or other users.
• Users must not attempt to bypass the platform to hire service providers directly.

3.2 Booking, Payment, Cancellation & Refund Policy

This policy governs how bookings are made, payments processed, and refunds handled on the platform.

• Booking Process: Users can browse verified service providers, select their preferred candidates, and book services through the Hire Now app or website.
• Payment Terms: Payments are made securely through Hire Now's integrated payment gateway. Users must settle payments upfront before services are rendered.
• Cancellation Policy: More than 36 hours before service: Full refund. Less than 36 hours before service: Partial refund. Less than 12 hours before service: No refund.

3.3 Service Guarantee & Complaint Resolution Policy

Hire Now guarantees satisfaction with every booking and provides a structured process for resolving complaints or disputes.

• Hire Now ensures that all service providers are thoroughly vetted and qualified.
• If a service provider fails to meet the agreed-upon standards, Hire Now will mediate and ensure resolution.
• Users may file complaints through the platform's support system with detailed descriptions and evidence.

4.1 Mediation First/Mandatory Mediation

All disputes must first go through Hire Now's internal dispute resolution process before escalating to legal action. Users agree to resolve conflicts amicably through mediation or arbitration.

4.2 Workplace Safety & Insurance Policy

This policy ensures that Hire Now is not held liable for accidents, injuries, or damages during service delivery.

• Service providers are responsible for adhering to safety standards and best practices during service delivery.
• Clients must ensure that the work environment is safe for service providers.
• Hire Now is not liable for accidents, injuries, or damages occurring during service delivery.

4.3 Fraud Prevention & Payment Security Policy

This policy implements measures to prevent fraudulent transactions, chargebacks, and scams.

• Hire Now uses industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to protect financial transactions.
• Advanced algorithms detect and prevent fraudulent activities, including unauthorized payments, fake accounts, or suspicious behavior.
• Users or providers found engaging in fraudulent activities will face account suspension, legal action, or financial penalties.

5.1 What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit websites or use apps. They help us recognize your preferences, improve performance, and provide personalized services.

5.2 Types of Cookies Used

• Necessary Cookies: Essential for platform functionality (e.g., session management, security).
• Performance Cookies: Collect data about platform usage to improve performance (e.g., Google Analytics).
• Functional Cookies: Enable specific features (e.g., remembering login details, language preferences).
• Advertising Cookies: Used for targeted advertising based on user behavior.
• Security Cookies: Help identify and prevent fraudulent activities and unauthorized access.

5.3 How We Use Cookies

We use cookies to:

• Authenticate users and ensure secure access to their accounts.
• Analyze traffic and understand user behavior to improve our services.
• Personalize your user experience and recommend relevant services.
• Manage marketing campaigns and track the effectiveness of ads.
• Ensure compliance with legal requirements and enhance security measures.

5.4 User Consent

By using our platform, you consent to the use of cookies as described in this policy. You can manage cookie settings through your browser or device settings.