Luxury Household Staffing Trends in 2025

MyStaffHQ By MyStaffHq Team Published on 06/03/2025

Luxury Household Staffing Trends in 2025: High-Tech, High-Touch Service for UHNW Homes

Introduction

The world of ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) household staffing is entering a new era defined by innovation and elevated service. Today’s luxury household staffing trends reflect a dynamic mix of high-tech integration and high-touch personalization. From smart home technologies transforming day-to-day estate management to UHNW employers seeking multi-skilled, elite domestic staffing professionals, the private service industry is evolving rapidly. This article explores the current trends shaping luxury home staff recruitment and management – including technological advancements, evolving service expectations, market forces, and the enduring importance of discretion – to help families and estate managers navigate the changing landscape.

The Growing Demand for Luxury Household Staffing

Demand for private household staff is surging as wealthy families expand their households and expectations. The number of ultra-wealthy individuals worldwide continues to rise, driving need for support staff to manage their estates and lifestyles. For example, the global population of UHNW individuals grew by 4.2% in 2023 to over 626,000, according to Knight Frank’s Wealth Report (A Remarkable Story: Hire the Ideal Housekeeper | WVB CONNECT). With more UHNW families than ever, there are simply more luxury homes that require housekeepers, estate managers, nannies, private chefs, and other staff to keep operations running smoothly.

This boom in wealth has translated into one of the busiest job markets for household employees in decades. Industry experts note that the current hiring market for estate and domestic staff is the busiest in 20 years, as affluent households are willing to invest more in service to match their lifestyles (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation). Many UHNW families reassessed their household needs coming out of the pandemic, often adding residences or relocating to new locales, which further increased demand for qualified staff. In traditional wealth hubs like San Francisco, New York, and London as well as emerging centers like Miami and Dubai, the need for experienced private service staff is “hotter than ever,” fueled by newly relocated affluent families (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring).

What’s driving this growing demand? Several key factors stand out:

  • Rising UHNW Population: Simply put, more millionaires and billionaires mean more households needing support. A “rising tide” of high-net-worth individuals is leading to greater demand for luxury services – including household staffing (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring). Wealthy families today often maintain multiple properties (city penthouses, country estates, vacation villas), each requiring personnel for upkeep and management.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Many affluent individuals have adopted new lifestyles that increase reliance on domestic staff. Trends like remote work and pandemic-era relocation saw UHNW families acquiring additional homes in desirable areas, creating a need for staff in those locations (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring). Larger homes with home offices, home schools, and extensive amenities also require more hands on deck.
  • Higher Service Standards: Expectations of service quality have never been higher. UHNW principals now seek exceptional, hotel-level service in their private residences, prompting them to hire more specialized staff (such as trained chefs, butlers, or wellness specialists) to deliver a truly elevated experience. Families are willing to spend more to secure top talent who can provide an “exceptional level of service” in their properties (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation).

In short, the private service industry is experiencing unprecedented growth in demand. Luxury estates and family offices are actively expanding their household teams to ensure every aspect of their lifestyle – from childcare and security to entertaining and property management – is handled with professionalism. For qualified domestic professionals, this trend means abundant job opportunities; for UHNW households, it means competition for the best talent is intensifying.

Technological Innovations in UHNW Household Staffing

Modern technology is reshaping how luxury homes are run and the skills that household staff must bring to the table. Today’s high-end residences are often “smart homes” filled with sophisticated systems for security, climate control, lighting, entertainment, and more. As a result, elite domestic staff are expected to be as tech-savvy as they are service-minded. In fact, the modern household staff member is no longer just a traditional butler or housekeeper – they are a tech-savvy, multi-skilled powerhouse capable of managing intricate smart-home systems while addressing the dynamic needs of their employer (Elite Secrets: The Hidden Realm of Exclusive Household Staff | Irving Scott).

(Smart Home App Photos, Download The BEST Free Smart Home App Stock Photos & HD ImagesAlt text: A collection of smart home devices – including a security camera, sensors, and a smartphone – illustrating the advanced technology integrated into modern luxury households.

Smart Home Mastery: Ultra-luxury homes now feature cutting-edge automation and connected devices that streamline daily life. From app-controlled HVAC and lighting to voice-activated security and AI-powered appliances, technology is ubiquitous in these households. Private staff are expected to operate and troubleshoot smart home systems confidently as part of their routine. For example, an estate manager might need to program and monitor a home’s security cameras and alarm systems, while a housekeeper could be responsible for using a high-tech cleaning appliance or managing an electronic inventory of household supplies. Ongoing training is essential to keep staff up-to-date on evolving tech; as one domestic staffing firm notes, advances in smart home systems require staff to continuously adapt through training (The Importance of Ongoing Training for Domestic Staff). In billionaire estates, where homes are equipped with the latest automation and entertainment tech, staff must be continuously trained to handle these advanced systems and integrate them into service delivery (Luxury Household Staffing: Comparing Billionaire and Millionaire Clientele - Billionaire Staffing Agency). The ability to seamlessly blend traditional hospitality with modern gadgetry is now a prized skill.

Digital Tools & Recruitment: Technology is not only changing life inside the home, but also how luxury household staff are recruited and managed. Discerning families increasingly leverage specialized online platforms and databases to find vetted staff more efficiently. Platforms like MyStaffHQ provide a discreet digital marketplace for luxury home staff recruitment, connecting UHNW employers with pre-screened candidates worldwide at the click of a button. Virtual interviews, video calls, and even AI-assisted candidate matching are becoming common in the private service industry’s hiring process. Leading domestic staffing agencies use secure apps and software to coordinate staff schedules, handle payroll, and maintain household manuals digitally for consistency across multiple properties. Embracing these innovations allows wealthy households to run more like well-oiled enterprises – with real-time oversight and data – while still preserving the personal touch of private service.

Overall, technology in luxury staffing is enabling greater efficiency and customization. UHNW families benefit from staff who can leverage apps and automation to anticipate needs (for instance, using a home management app to track maintenance tasks or a digital concierge system to organize events). As smart homes become the norm, the human staff that manage them are evolving into hybrid tech-and-service professionals. This trend will only deepen in coming years, as innovations like artificial intelligence, home robotics, and advanced security systems further integrate into high-end living. Households that invest in tech training for their staff – or hire specifically for tech fluency – will have a clear advantage in keeping their estates running smoothly and securely.

Evolving Service Expectations Among High-Net-Worth Employers

Beyond technology, service expectations in UHNW homes have grown more elaborate and personalized. Wealthy principals today expect a level of service that rivals five-star hotels and luxury resorts, but tailored intimately to their personal lifestyle. This is driving a shift in the skillsets and professionalism required of private household staff. Key trends in what high-net-worth employers now look for include:

  • Multi-Skilled Staff: Roles are blurring and staff are wearing many hats. Rather than hiring separate individuals for every task, families often prefer employees who can handle a wide range of responsibilities. A modern personal assistant might also manage social media or basic bookkeeping; a chauffeur might double as a security aide; a nanny might have teaching or therapy skills to better support the children. Households value candidates who bring “specialized expertise to balance intricate logistics” of modern home life (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring). In practice, this means a premium on butlers and house managers who are also IT-savvy, or chefs who can also plan events. The more versatile and cross-trained a staff member is, the more indispensable they become in a large estate setting.
  • Higher Credentials and Training: Along with diverse skills, top employers now often expect formal training or certifications from their household staff. Gone are the days when an outgoing personality and a bit of on-the-job experience were enough to land a role with a billionaire family. Today, nannies with degrees in early childhood education, housekeepers trained in museum-quality art care, and estate managers with hospitality management certificates are highly sought after. Many families require standard certifications like CPR/First Aid for caregivers and nannies, as well as advanced credentials for chefs (culinary degrees) or close protection staff (security licenses). This professionalization of domestic work ensures staff can perform at the highest level. Industry surveys show a rising emphasis on formalized training programs covering not only traditional service skills but also modern areas like cybersecurity and even emotional intelligence for staff (Elite Secrets: The Hidden Realm of Exclusive Household Staff | Irving Scott). By investing in educated, well-trained staff, UHNW employers aim to get a caliber of service that is both exceptionally competent and consistently reliable.
  • Ultra-Personalized, Detail-Oriented Service: High-net-worth individuals increasingly desire bespoke service that aligns exactly with their preferences and lifestyle. Household staff are expected to anticipate needs and attend to the smallest details that make a big difference. For example, a butler might maintain an exhaustive household manual noting the principal’s preferences for everything – how they take their coffee, the precise layout of wardrobe items, birthdays of close friends – to deliver truly personalized care. Nothing is too small to be perfected: linens must be folded just so, fresh flowers arranged to the client’s taste, and travel itineraries curated to individual whims. As one private housekeeper described, “Families who invest in quality expect their homes to be nothing short of perfection, and it’s our job to make that happen” (The Role of a Housekeeper for Private UHNW Families: A Behind-the-Scenes Perspective - MyStaffHq®). This heightened attention to detail is a defining feature of elite household staffing today. Employers also value staff who bring creativity and initiative to their roles – for instance, a chef devising a custom menu for a guest’s dietary needs, or a personal assistant finding unique experiences for the family. The goal is an intuitive level of service where staff not only respond to requests but predict them, creating an effortlessly comfortable environment for the employer.
  • Professionalism and Discretion: While discretion merits its own section (see below), it’s worth noting here that UHNW employers expect all staff to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism at all times. This includes respecting boundaries, maintaining a low profile around guests, and upholding an ethos of “invisible service” – being present and attentive without intruding. Punctuality, loyalty, and a strong work ethic are baseline expectations. Private service is increasingly seen as a legitimate career path, and staff are expected to behave as such: adhering to codes of conduct, partaking in continuous professional development, and striving for excellence daily. In return, top principals often treat their staff as valued professionals – providing competitive pay, benefits, and even career growth opportunities (e.g. promoting a housekeeper to house manager over time). This mutual commitment raises standards on both sides, resulting in households run by teams of polished, career-minded service experts rather than casual domestic help.

In summary, the profile of the ideal luxury household employee has evolved. UHNW families seek “the complete package” – individuals with impeccable hard skills (from gourmet cooking to tech troubleshooting), honed soft skills (communication, adaptability, cultural sensitivity), and the right service mindset to uphold an elite standard. Those who meet these expectations find they are in high demand and can command premium compensation. For employers, finding such talent can be challenging, which is why many turn to specialized recruiters or staffing agencies to locate and vet candidates who check all the boxes. The private service industry’s bar has been raised, and everyone is adjusting accordingly.

Market Trends Shaping the Private Service Industry

As the luxury staffing sector expands, several broader market trends are influencing how households hire and retain their staff. Understanding these trends can help both employers and job candidates navigate the private service industry effectively:

  • Competitive Compensation and Benefits: With demand for qualified household staff outpacing supply, salaries are climbing. In many cases, UHNW families are offering pay increases above general market rates to attract and keep top talent. A recent estate staffing survey found that ultra-wealthy households granted raises exceeding the broader U.S. average for nearly half of managerial roles and over a third of domestic staff roles (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation). It’s not uncommon now for an experienced estate manager or butler to earn a six-figure salary, especially when managing multiple properties. Beyond salary, employers are sweetening offers with benefits like health insurance, housing accommodations (for live-in roles), performance bonuses, and travel opportunities. The message is clear: in today’s market, quality staff can command quality pay. Households that recognize this and budget accordingly tend to secure better long-term employees.
  • Talent Shortage & Retention Focus: Finding and keeping excellent household staff has become a strategic concern for UHNW families. The private service industry is relatively small and tight-knit, so known star performers are highly sought after. When a household finds a great employee – someone who understands the family well and runs things smoothly – they are eager to retain them. High turnover is disruptive and can even pose security risks (each new staff member must learn the family’s routines and could expose private information). Thus, wealthy employers are emphasizing staff retention like never before. They are offering clear career progression (promoting from within to roles like head housekeeper or lead nanny), providing ongoing training and upskilling opportunities, and fostering a sense of loyalty through respectful treatment. As one advisory firm notes, UHNW individuals with estate staff must “focus on retention or risk losing the employees who keep their lives running smoothly” (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation). In practice, this might mean giving staff more time off, adjusting schedules to prevent burnout, or simply involving them in family events to make them feel valued. The old stereotype of high-turnover domestic help is fading; today’s trend is to invest in a trusted staff for the long haul.
  • Rise of Live-In and Travel-Ready Roles: Many principals are showing renewed interest in live-in staff and employees who can travel with the family. Having key staff reside on property (or nearby) ensures 24/7 coverage and builds familiarity with the household’s needs. Live-in nannies, private chefs, and couples (housekeeper/houseman teams) have become more common, often with premium compensation to compensate for the loss of some privacy. Similarly, because UHNW families may rotate between multiple homes globally, they value staff who are willing to travel or relocate seasonally. A family might take their nanny and butler along on extended vacations or have their estate manager oversee several properties in different cities. This requires flexibility on the part of staff, but those willing to embrace a nomadic aspect to the job are highly valued. Agencies report an increase in live-in placements and requests for staff with valid passports and travel experience, reflecting this trend in the market (Top Home Staffing Trends in 2025: What Candidates Need to Know | Town + Country Resources).
  • Geographical Shifts in Demand: The private service industry is also being shaped by where wealth is growing. While established luxury enclaves (New York, London, Los Angeles, etc.) remain busy, new regional markets are emerging. In the U.S., for instance, South Florida (Miami, Palm Beach) has seen an influx of affluent families relocating from the Northeast, creating a surge in local demand for household staff (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring). Globally, the Middle East (Dubai, Riyadh) and parts of Asia are witnessing growth in UHNW residents who are now hiring experienced household personnel. This geographic shift means staffing agencies and professionals are broadening their scope. A top estate manager from London might be enticed to a position in Dubai, or a Philippine-born nanny with Middle East experience might be in high demand among new wealthy families there. Additionally, cultural fit and multilingual abilities are becoming more important in placements, as households often seek staff who can navigate different locales and customs. The net effect is a more globalized private service labor market, with opportunities (and competition) spanning continents.
  • Professional Recruitment & Support: Unlike in past generations, today’s ultra-wealthy families almost always engage professional recruiters or agencies to staff their homes. The stakes and complexity of hiring are simply too high to rely on word-of-mouth alone (though referrals still play a role). Specialized domestic staffing agencies and concierge firms have refined the art of matching the right staff to the right household, often conducting rigorous vetting, background checks, and multiple interview rounds. These agencies understand the unique culture of private service and the nuanced fit required – they look beyond resumes to factors like personality compatibility with the family, ability to maintain confidentiality, and long-term stability (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring) (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring). Some UHNW family offices even have dedicated HR for household staff. Moreover, resources like the Morgan Stanley Estate & Household Staff Compensation Report now exist to guide employers on competitive pay and benefits (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation), underscoring the growing professionalism of this field. The trend is that running a household staff is treated with the same seriousness as running a business team. Families are also increasingly open to outsourced or contracted staff for certain roles, using agencies to supply temporary chefs for events or estate contractors for property management, giving them flexibility. In many estates, a mix of in-house and outsourced staffing is the norm – for example, directly hiring core staff like a house manager and nanny, while contracting a cleaning service or IT specialist as needed (). This hybrid model allows households to scale their staffing to meet seasonal or situational demands without permanently adding headcount.

Overall, the private service industry is maturing and adapting under the influence of these market forces. Compensation packages are more competitive, employment relationships more stable, and the sourcing of talent more sophisticated. UHNW employers who stay attuned to these trends – by offering attractive employment terms and leveraging expert recruitment help – are the ones best positioned to secure the caliber of staff they desire. For domestic workers, these trends mean better pay and more respect for their profession, but also higher expectations to perform and commit. In the end, households that successfully align with market realities will foster loyal, high-performing staff who enable a truly luxurious lifestyle.

The Role of Discreet Household Staffing in Luxury Homes

In the rarefied world of ultra-wealthy households, discretion isn’t just polite – it’s paramount. Privacy and confidentiality have always been hallmarks of private service, but today, with information so easily shared and security a constant concern, the emphasis on discretion is stronger than ever. High-net-worth families expect their household staff to be invisible guardians of their privacy, ensuring that what happens behind closed doors remains absolutely confidential.

Many UHNW employers require new staff to sign strict Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) upon hiring. An NDA for domestic staff is a legal tool designed to protect sensitive information about the household, from personal details and daily routines to financial and business matters (What Is an NDA for Domestic Staff? - MyStaffHq®) (What Is an NDA for Domestic Staff? - MyStaffHq®). By formalizing confidentiality obligations, NDAs give families peace of mind that their staff are legally bound to silence regarding the family’s affairs. (For a detailed look at NDAs and why they matter in household staffing, see What Is an NDA for Domestic Staff? (What Is an NDA for Domestic Staff? - MyStaffHq®) on our blog.) But discretion in luxury staffing goes beyond paperwork – it’s woven into the culture and daily behavior of professional household employees.

Trusted agencies and estate managers cultivate a “need-to-know” environment to safeguard client privacy. Communication about the principal’s life or whereabouts is tightly controlled. Staff are often instructed to use secure, encrypted channels for any sensitive communications. For example, a discreet household staffing agency might only refer to an UHNW client by code name during recruiting, revealing the identity only to the final candidates under NDA. As one recruitment firm explains, “any activities related to [UHNW] hiring are done with extremely tight lids” – identities concealed, secure communication used, and confidentiality agreements in place (Hiring Trends Among UHNW Clients: What You Need to Know). This level of secrecy comes with the territory of working for public figures, celebrities, or high-profile businesspeople. In practice, it means a nanny or chef must be as comfortable not discussing their employer’s schedule with friends as a security chief is adept at deflecting nosy inquiries.

Inside the home, discretion manifests in countless small ways. Staff know to be unobtrusive – a butler will ensure a room is perfectly set then quietly exit before the family enters, for instance. Personal assistants carefully manage calendars so that overlapping engagements or sensitive meetings remain private even within the household. Social media usage is often curtailed; staff are typically forbidden from posting anything about their workplace or taking photos on the property (The Keystone of Elite Household Management). Even off-duty, private staff are expected to keep their work details scant. The best household staff almost become “part of the wallpaper” – always there to support, but never drawing attention to family matters.

Discretion is also vital for security and trust. UHNW families need absolute confidence that their staff will not leak information that could lead to unwanted publicity, jealousy, or even criminal targeting. The relationship between principal and household staff is built on trust, and one indiscretion can shatter it irreparably. This is why character and ethics are as important as skills when hiring for these roles. A candidate with a sterling resume will be passed over if references even hint at loose lips or unprofessional conduct. On the flip side, staff who prove loyal and trustworthy often become almost like extended family to their employers over years of service.

In essence, discreet staffing is the linchpin that allows ultra-wealthy individuals to enjoy home life comfortably. It creates a safe zone where they can be themselves, free from the spotlight, knowing their staff act as a privacy shield. Agencies like MyStaffHQ put a premium on vetting candidates for discretion – conducting background checks and scenario-based interviews to ensure a new hire will uphold the confidentiality required. Many families will explicitly discuss privacy expectations during interviews, setting the tone from the start.

For anyone working in or aspiring to work in elite domestic staffing, a “what you see at work, say nothing” ethos is critical. Upholding discretion isn’t about hiding secrets maliciously; it’s about respecting the sanctuary of home for the principals who employ you. Whether it’s royalty, a Fortune 500 CEO, or a celebrity, the need is the same: household staff must be guardians of confidentiality, allowing the household to run on trust. By honoring that trust, discreet staff enable the household to function like a well-oiled, secure universe unto itself – truly the ultimate luxury.

Conclusion

Luxury household staffing is evolving on multiple fronts, but at its core it remains about one fundamental goal: enabling ultra-high-net-worth families to live with ease, comfort, and security. The current trends – from tech-savvy estate management and multi-talented staff roles, to rising demand and professionalized recruitment, to an unwavering commitment to discretion – all serve this goal. UHNW households that embrace these trends put themselves in the best position to attract and retain the exceptional staff needed to maintain their lifestyle. By investing in skilled people and keeping pace with innovations, a modern estate can run as seamlessly as a five-star hotel, yet feel truly like home.

For families and estate managers navigating these changes, staying informed is key. Regularly benchmarking salaries, providing training for new technologies, and working with experienced staffing agencies can make all the difference in building a top-tier household team. Likewise, domestic professionals who continually upgrade their skills and uphold the highest standards will find ample opportunities in this growing field.

Ultimately, the partnership between an UHNW family and their household staff is a symbiotic one – each relies on the other. When aligned with the latest best practices, it’s a partnership that results in remarkable homes: where every detail is handled, every need anticipated, and privacy respected, so that a life of true luxury can be enjoyed to the fullest.

Call to Action: Is your household prepared for these emerging trends? Whether you’re looking to hire an elite domestic staffing team or seeking your next role in a luxury home, staying ahead of industry shifts is crucial. MyStaffHQ is here to help. As a leading platform for private service recruitment, we connect discerning UHNW employers with vetted, high-caliber staff who meet the modern demands of luxury living. Contact us or visit our platform to discover how we can assist with your household staffing needs – from finding tech-savvy estate managers to sourcing discreet staff you can trust. Embrace the future of luxury staffing with confidence, and let MyStaffHQ support you every step of the way.



FAQ: Luxury Household Staffing Trends

Q: What skills are most in demand for luxury household staff now?

A: UHNW employers today look for multi-skilled and tech-savvy staff. In addition to excellence in a primary role (be it housekeeper, chef, nanny, etc.), top candidates offer extra skills like tech literacy, project management, or specialized training. For example, a house manager who can troubleshoot smart home systems or a nanny who speaks multiple languages and has a teaching background will stand out. Soft skills are also crucial – flexibility, adaptability, and discretion are must-haves in the private service industry (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring). Essentially, households want well-rounded professionals who can wear many hats and handle diverse responsibilities with minimal supervision.

Q: How is technology influencing luxury household staffing?

A: Technology has become deeply integrated into luxury home management. Smart home systems (for security, lighting, climate, entertainment, etc.) are common in high-end residences, so staff need to be comfortable using and managing these tools. Estate managers may use home management software to coordinate tasks, and staff often communicate via secure messaging apps. Some high-net-worth families use digital platforms to recruit staff and conduct virtual interviews, expanding their candidate pool globally. Overall, tech has made household operations more efficient and data-driven, but it also means staff must continually learn new devices and programs. The modern private service professional is part traditional hospitality expert, part tech support – able to set up a video conference for the principal in the home office one minute and polish silver the next.

Q: Why is confidentiality so important in UHNW household staffing?

A: Discretion is paramount because private household staff are privy to their employers’ personal lives, financial information, and daily habits. High-profile and high-net-worth individuals value their privacy intensely – a leak or breach of trust can lead to unwanted public exposure or security risks. This is why Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) are standard in luxury staffing (What Is an NDA for Domestic Staff? - MyStaffHq®). Staff must keep all information about the family strictly confidential, both during and after employment. Beyond legal agreements, it’s about trust: a household functions best when the family trusts staff completely, and staff understand the importance of protecting their employer’s privacy. In practical terms, this means no gossiping about your work, no social media posts or photos from the job, and a general “seen but not heard” approach around the principals and their guests. Discreet staffing allows UHNW families to maintain a low profile and peace of mind while receiving top-notch service.

Q: Is the demand for private household staff really growing?

A: Yes – demand for luxury household staff has grown significantly in recent years, and it continues to rise. The increase in global wealth (more millionaires and billionaires) directly creates more jobs for private chefs, estate managers, nannies, and other domestic roles (A Remarkable Story: Hire the Ideal Housekeeper | WVB CONNECT). Additionally, many affluent families expanded or upgraded their households during the past few years, acquiring new properties or spending more time at home, which heightened the need for staff. Industry reports have described the current hiring market for household staff as one of the busiest in decades (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation). This means families often face competition when trying to hire experienced staff – these professionals might have multiple job offers. It’s a candidate’s market in many respects. For employers, moving quickly with attractive compensation and working with reputable staffing agencies are smart strategies to secure good people. For job seekers, it’s a great time to be in private service, provided you have the skills and references that luxury employers seek.

Q: How can ultra-wealthy families find the right household staff amid these trends?

A: Given the high stakes, most UHNW families turn to specialized domestic staffing agencies or platforms (like MyStaffHQ) to find the right candidates. These professionals understand the unique demands of private service roles and maintain networks of vetted, experienced staff. The process usually involves a detailed assessment of the family’s needs and preferences (from skills required to personality fit), rigorous background and reference checks on candidates, and often multiple interviews or trials. Embracing technology can help – families can interview candidates around the world via video, for instance, to find their ideal match. It’s also wise for employers to stay competitive: offering above-market salaries, comfortable live-in arrangements if applicable, and clearly outlining benefits and time off can attract top talent. Ultimately, patience and diligence in the hiring process pay off. By leveraging expert help and being clear about expectations, ultra-wealthy families can build a loyal household team that meets the modern trends – tech-proficient, multi-talented, and impeccably discreet – ensuring their home is managed to perfection.

Sources:

  1. Knight Frank & Douglas Elliman – The Wealth Report 2023 (global UHNW population growth) (A Remarkable Story: Hire the Ideal Housekeeper | WVB CONNECT)
  2. WealthManagement.com – Valerie Wong Fountain, "Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing..." (surge in hiring market, retention focus) (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation) (Best Practices for UHNW Client Staffing, Retention and Compensation)
  3. CareerGroupCompanies.com – “Household Staffing in 2024” (demand in hubs and reasons for boom: high standards, relocations, complex households) (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring) (New Era of Household Staffing: Top Jobs in Private Services | Hiring)
  4. Irving Scott – “The Future of Exclusive Household Staff in a Changing World” (tech-savvy, multi-skilled staff and need for specialized skills) (Elite Secrets: The Hidden Realm of Exclusive Household Staff | Irving Scott) (Elite Secrets: The Hidden Realm of Exclusive Household Staff | Irving Scott)
  5. Alliance Recruitment – “Hiring Trends Among UHNW Clients” (importance of secrecy, use of secure communication and confidentiality agreements) (Hiring Trends Among UHNW Clients: What You Need to Know) (Hiring Trends Among UHNW Clients: What You Need to Know)
  6. Perfect Household Staff – “Ongoing Training for Domestic Staff” (adapting to smart home technology and modern practices through continuous training)