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From our experience of helping families for nearly 25 years, we have learned the characteristics families value about their household professionals…
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1. The ability to anticipate the needs of your employer
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Strive to stay one step ahead of your employer.
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2. Excellent references
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Maintain contact with past employers.
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Send a holiday card or a birthday card every year to maintain your relationship.
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3. Computer skills
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The more programs you know the better.
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Most clients look for proficiency with the following programs: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Quicken or QuickBooks. Experience with photo management and internet research skills are also strongly desired.
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4. Strong communication skills
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Keep your employer in the loop at all times by keeping a journal or log in a convenient location that your employer can review at any time. This will provide your employer with a status report on all “To Do” projects.
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Offer to check in with your employer on a monthly basis to discuss ideas to make the household run more efficiently.
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5. A history of reliability and being on time
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Leave extra time for unexpected delays and try to arrive a few minutes early.
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Call the night before if you are feeling sick as well as if you think you will be late.
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6. A pitch-in attitude and well rounded skill set
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Look around the house and assess what would be helpful for your employer.
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Offer to do a load of laundry, unload the dishwasher, or organize a closet.
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Have the ability to prepare healthy meals for your employer by learning five basic recipes.
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7. The interest in making a long-term commitment to a family
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Honor the length of time you agree to stay with a family.
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Be forthright with the family about your future plans.
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8. Organizational experience
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Your employer will want to know that you have successfully set up and maintained organizational systems.
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Be creative with your organizational solutions and come to your employer with new innovative ideas to help their lives run smoothly.
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9. Ability to have a low profile in the household
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Being in a private home requires that you are unobtrusive and allow your client to maintain their privacy. Be aware of your voice level and don’t engage in unnecessary chatter. |
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