Working in an ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) household or family office is something that requires building a solid foundation of trust, respect, and rapport. It’s not established overnight; it takes some time to foster.
Whether you’re a chauffeur, live-in nanny, private chef, or an estate manager overseeing the innerworkings of properties across the country, establishing a good long-term relationship with your UHNW employer is crucial for your success.
Building Trust
As a domestic professional, you become an integral part of the home or family office’s daily life. The key to thriving in these positions begins with understanding the distinct needs that each family has and attending to those with a superior level of discretion and detail.
Doing so will allow you to better integrate into their daily operations and routines and ultimately build trust that lasts. Here are some important tips to do that.
Focus on confidentiality at all times.
Hiring someone to work in your home or family office is very personal, and UHNW individuals, homes, or family offices require heightened privacy most of the time. They expect their staff to be trustworthy and recognize that discretion is huge.
Whether it’s personal information that you have access to, professional dealings that you’re privy to, or a combination of both, how you handle access to sensitive information is central in establishing trust.
Many times, UHNW employers require staff to sign a nondisclosure agreement, which requires you to never reveal specific information while working there. Even if that isn’t required, it’s important to always respect their privacy and not discuss details with others close to you.
Learn to anticipate what they need.
Each UHNW family office or estate is distinct, and part of your job as an employee is to learn what your employer’s preferences and routines are.
For example, if you’re a driver, it’s important to learn how they like experience their travel – temperature, snacks or music during the drive, particular routes they prefer. A private chef will quickly need to learn what dietary preferences there are, what dining options they prefer (formal nightly sit down meals, on-the-go, casual dining), and what other criteria they have for you while working in and around their kitchen.
In short, take the time to ask questions, observe, and then align your work accordingly. This shows that you care and are willing to pay extra attention to details that ultimately matter in creating a personal experience. Whatever your role is, keep track of the small details and be proactive in showing your dedication to providing outstanding service each day.
Show that you’re willing to adapt.
UHNW families can often have busy – and ever-changing – schedules. So, remember that part of your job is staying flexible and remaining calm if something changes last minute.
Whether it’s a sudden shift in travel plans or something happens to throw a knot in the remodeling schedule of your principal’s seasonal home, learn how to adapt quickly while maintaining professionalism.
Keep the lines of communication open.
As with any good working relationship, communication is essential. Clear, respectful communication will keep things running smoothly, open the door for conversation if concerns or issues arise, and also demonstrate that you are committed to doing your best in your role.
Whether it’s informing the principal of schedule delays with contractors or vendors, discussing changes in travel plans, bringing up an issue or concern about the children in the home, or confirming details about an upcoming event you’re helping plan, being calm, composed, and concise in your delivery is key.
Also, keep in mind that some principals have a preferred way of interacting. For example, are they okay with a quick text? Perhaps they prefer you to schedule time with them in advance in person. Respect their communication preferences and do your part to stay open, teachable, and confident.
Household Staffing Can Help Place You in the Right UHNW Home
If you’re an skilled domestic staffing professional looking to expand your experience to serve in a UHNW home, let us help.
As a domestic staffing agency who has worked with UHNW homes across the country for the last three decades, we understand what our clients are looking for.
Our expertise is in matching highly skilled household staff in private homes. We do that by listening to both their unique household needs and learning more about each candidate’s experience. Then, we use that personalized insight for placement.
Start or continue your journey into the world of UHNW domestic staffing today! We look forward to connecting with professionals who are committed to excellence each step of the way.
