Question 1

How many years' private household experience do I need to have to apply to Staff of Distinction?

Accepted Answer

We require a minimum of 5 years&#8217; experience working in a private household for both UK and overseas positions.

Question 2

Can I apply if I have been working in a 5* Hotel for 10 years?

Accepted Answer

As you can appreciate, while you will have been trained to work to very high standards, the workings of a prestigious hotel are very different to that of a private household. When checking references it is essential that we can demonstrate that all candidates introduced have the necessary like-for-like experience

for a seamless settling into the new household role.

Question 3

Do I have to pay a fee to register?

Accepted Answer

No we don&#8217;t charge candidates a fee to apply to our agency.

Question 4

How can I apply to be on your register?

Accepted Answer

We ask that all new applicants send us a copy of their up to date CV, certificates and references to assess their experience and from that point we will advise them if we can help them find a new job.

Question 5

The jobs on your website, are they genuine and how can I be put forward?

Accepted Answer

Yes all the jobs on our website are genuine and also those with the Imperial Brand featured on other platforms such as third party advertising sites and social media. Do be aware that all our jobs will be at different stages of the selection process.  For example, our processes range from making a candidate shortlist to setting up interviews which proceeds to our client making a decision. Please note that our adverts do not indicate which stage the recruitment process has reached so do bare that in mind.  On that basis, the sooner you submit your CV and interest, the sooner you are in with a chance to be assessed and shortlisted.  Lastly, we also recruit for jobs not advertised which we refer to as &#8216;off market&#8217;.

Question 6

When I apply for a position, will you keep me up-to-date on my application?

Accepted Answer

We understand this can be a nerve wracking time when you see a job you feel is &#8216;the one&#8217; and we will always keep in touch with you so that you are up-to-date every step of the way.

Question 7

When attending interviews, can I ask for travel expenses?

Accepted Answer

This depends on where you are travelling from and the interview location.  This varies from client to client and your consultant will advise you accordingly.

Question 8

I see you require your applicants to hold a DBS, what if I don't have one?

Accepted Answer

All applicants must provide or apply for an Enhanced DBS and if you don&#8217;t yet have one, we can assist in your application.  We are affiliated to an established independent DBS checking agency who will process this for you with a normal turnaround of 2-4 weeks.

Question 9

You found me my current housekeeper job 4 years ago but my employer is relocating to the USA. Do you still have my details so I can find a new job?

Accepted Answer

Due to GDPR legislation, we are not able to hold your data for more than 2 years if we have not had contact with you. We would be delighted to assist you again to find a new job but will need to update your documents to include your latest job and duties. Please do telephone the office now on +44 (0)20 7795 6255 to discuss what you are now looking for so that we can find the best job for your skills and experience.

Question 10

What information do you send to clients when introducing domestic household staff?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, before we send any candidates&#8217; information to our clients, we will discuss the role with the best suited candidates and gain their consent to share their details.  Our clients will only receive CV&#8217;s and references of candidates who are genuinely interested in the vacancy and also whom are very well suited.

Question 11

What if I want to recruit a member of staff before I give notice to my current member of staff?

Accepted Answer

We can of course begin our search immediately according to your wishes but we would discuss with you why they are not working out and if there is anything you can do to improve their performance or, depending

on the issues, how you can resolve with your current member of staff before starting the search for a new candidate. We are always available to give advice if needed depending on the circumstances, but last resort, we can

look at your other options before you take the leap.

Question 12

How do I settle in my new domestic member of staff

Accepted Answer

Firstly we would look at if this was a new role or an on-going role. If this is a new role, it’s important to have a well set out Job Specification to clearly list the duties and responsibilities therein. The time it takes to

perform the duties must be realistic and any member of staff starting a newly created role will understand that a degree of flexibility is required to finalise the best working routine and practice.