The Importance of Adaptability When Becoming a Housekeeper
Contrary to popular belief, and in a move that feels somewhat counterintuitive, the role of a housekeeper is not restricted to the house. At least, it isn’t for countless housekeepers in Chelsea and other parts of London.
From travel overseas to support the family with their routine and everyday needs, to carrying out countless tasks outside the home, no two days are the same for professional housekeepers. And it’s this that makes adaptability and flexibility so important.
What Does a Housekeeper Do?
No two days are the same for a housekeeper, just like no two job roles are the same for prospective candidates.
While most housekeepers can expect to perform cleaning duties around the house, covering laundry and ironing, washing up, loading the dishwasher, and maintaining overall cleanliness, other tasks vary from family to family.
Some include childcare in the schedule, while others consider tasks outside the home a part of the role. Others still look at international travel as a given, while some request their housekeeper to take on the additional role of household manager and overseeing other professionals inside and outside the property.
Depending on the role you are applying for, you must demonstrate an ability to adapt and show discretion and professionalism across all tasks.
Why Flexibility is Crucial
There are typically two different types of housekeeping role: live-in roles and live out roles. The former offers accommodation with the role, granting the successful housekeeper the chance to live on site with the family.
While this is an undeniable benefit for many, removing the need to pay for rent or own a property, this style of job tends to require even more flexibility than a standard housekeeping role. It means that the housekeeper is on hand to deal with issues outside of core working hours, with many finding that their hours are more ad hoc, and they may be expected to work late on some days.
Of course, that’s not to say that the same requests aren’t made of live out housekeepers. If, for example, your employer is hosting a get-together or dinner party then you may be asked to stay late – or come in early the next day to clear up.
The need for flexibility and the expectations of the role vary from client to client, meaning that it’s near impossible for us to share every possibility or eventuality.
Is a Housekeeping Role Right for You?
With all this in mind, do you have what it takes to excel as a housekeeper? At The Graham Agency, we pride ourselves on matching candidates with their ideal role, using and highlighting their additional skills and interests to help capture the perfect opportunity.
If you’re unsure of your experience and skillset, our team can help you to frame your expertise and tailor it to an application, pairing your personality with the right family for you.