The Differences Between A Great Housekeeper And A Great “Estate” Housekeeper
I get this comment from estate managers often…
“I have a great housekeeper BUT… I’m receiving complaints from my principal about their noisy shoes, constant humming, cell phone pings, too much perfume and chattiness about their weekend plans. I don’t want to be rude but…”
Being a top-notch estate housekeeper requires so much more than great housekeeping skills. If you’re a housekeeper who wants to shine like a diamond in this industry (and up your game), listen up and take note!
Here’s what your principal and your estate manager want you to know:
YOUR DEMEANOR
You have a pleasant look on your face. Always.
You leave your personal issues and opinions at home.
You don’t initiate conversation beyond a pleasant “Hello” or “Good Morning.”
If you must work in a room where the principal is, consider whether AirPods or other noise canceling devices are appropriate so they can have some privacy while you do your work.
YOUR APPAREL
Make sure nothing about your apparel distracts from their peace of mind. Meaning…you wear soft-soled, non-squeaky shoes, minimal jewelry (nothing that makes sound) and non-scented personal products.
Your hair should be neat and tidy and, if you don’t have an assigned uniform, your personal style should be minimal, modest and subtle.
YOUR EMOTIONAL MATURITY
You take nothing personal.
Select your words with the utmost care.
Don’t make assumptions. Always clarify and communicate with the estate manager about all details and requests.
Realize you’re working in someone’s home (not their office) and that your principal isn’t your friend or your co-worker.
Embrace that you are there only to make their life easier and less-stressed.
Learn how to work quickly and quietly and behind-the-scenes when possible. Timing is everything.
Know your principal’s pet peeves and adjust your attitude and service delivery accordingly.
YOUR TECHNOLOGY KNOWLEDGE
Be resourceful and knowledgeable about local resources, cleaning products and best practices of luxury home care. Know how to use your smart phone for everything!
Know how to use Word, Excel, online calendars, contacts and Google research extensively for household inventories and general research so you never have to ask anyone for these resources.
Learn how to change the printer ink and paper, reset Apple TV (or equivalent), and to change the account passcodes associated with these devices, if asked. Keep a log of account usernames and passcodes.
THE EXTRAS
Have a team-focused, everyone-wins mentality with the entire household staff.
Ask for help when you need to be on a ladder, when carrying anything heavy or with seasonal tasks that require more time than you have in your normal work week.
Keep up-to-date with maintenance record keeping, products and cleaning methods, as well as any contractor or vendor information.
I hope you are getting back to work under somewhat normal conditions. If there’s a way I can help you improve your performance and service, please reach out. I’d love to hear from you.
I’m rooting for you!
xo
Kelly
