Stand Out in Private Service: What Principals and Agencies Are Looking for in 2025–26

If you're seeking work as a housekeeper, house manager, executive assistant, nanny, or chef in a private household, you're entering a job market that is both competitive and full of opportunity. In 2025, high-net-worth households are hiring, but their expectations are evolving. At Bellevue Domestics, we work closely with both principals and candidates, and we know what separates a good applicant from a truly standout professional.

Here’s what principals and placement agencies are prioritizing this year, and how you can present yourself as the right fit.

1. Discretion Is Still the Gold Standard

More than any skill or certification, principals want to know they can trust you with their privacy. That means:

• No name-dropping past employers in interviews

• No photos or videos from private properties

• No oversharing on social media (yes, agencies check)

• Confidentiality agreements should be welcomed, not resisted

If you can describe your experience without revealing identities, you’re showing maturity, respect, and professionalism.

2. Tech Fluency Is No Longer Optional

Smart homes are the norm, not the exception. Whether you're an assistant coordinating travel or a housekeeper managing inventory, employers expect:

• Comfort with iPhones, shared calendars, and messaging apps

• Basic understanding of smart systems (Lutron, Nest, Ring, etc.)

• Willingness to learn new platforms like SharePoint, QuickBooks, or scheduling tools

If you’re not confident in this area, consider taking a short course—it pays off in interviews.

3. Longevity and Loyalty Matter More Than Ever

The cost of turnover is high. Families want to hire someone who’s planning to stay.

When we review applications, we look for:

• At least 2–3 years in previous roles (ideally longer)

• Explanations for any gaps or short stays

• References who can speak to reliability and integrity

If you're newer to the industry, demonstrate your long-term intent. Principals will invest in candidates who are invested in them.

4. Versatility is Highly Valued

Many roles are hybrid now. For example:

• A personal assistant may also manage household vendors

• A housekeeper may assist with errands or informal meal prep

• A nanny might coordinate school communication or family travel

If you’re flexible, solution-oriented, and willing to adapt, you’ll move to the top of the list.

5. Your Résumé Should Reflect the Private Service World

A few résumé tips:

• Use job titles that reflect the household structure (e.g., “Executive Housekeeper” or “Household Manager”)

• Highlight scope: How many properties? What size team? What were you responsible for?

• Avoid overly casual language or unrelated experience (leave out the part-time café job unless it demonstrates transferable skills)

If you're unsure how your résumé reads, ask a recruiter or mentor to review it with a critical eye.

6. Soft Skills Seal the Deal

Today’s most sought-after private staff are:

• Calm under pressure

• Highly observant

• Able to “read the room”

• Discreet, diplomatic, and emotionally intelligent

These traits may not be listed on a résumé, but they shine through during interviews, trials, and references.

Final Thought

Private service can be an extraordinary career path, but it’s not just about experience. It’s about professionalism, presence, and the ability to serve with both skill and subtlety. The candidates who thrive in 2025 and beyond will be those who combine modern capabilities with timeless qualities: discretion, loyalty, and pride in their craft.

If you’re ready for your next role, Bellevue Domestics is here to help. We don’t just match résumés to jobs; we help shape long-term careers.