As a recruitment and training agency, we know the core and key to our business is our outstanding candidates. Each of our candidates brings something special and unique to the domestic staff industry. And we get inspired by them every day. That’s why we want to showcase some of our really amazing candidates to you each month. Because they deserve that space in the spotlight. But also because we are sure they will inspire you as much as they inspire us.
Candidate of the month January: William
We are very proud to present William to you as our candidate for the month of January. William is an amazing gardener and handyman with a wealth of experience working for UHNW families. Will and his working Labrador make a brilliant team, and he gives some great tips for anyone starting, or working in the domestic staff industry.
What was your first ever job in the domestic industry?
My first job in the industry was actually a role I found via Polo & Tweed. It was the role of groundsman and handyman for a UHN family with a 35-acre property. I was promoted to senior Groundsman after 5 months of working there.
What do you love about your job?
I love several factors of my current role as a handyman and gardener;
- No two days are the same and there is a wide variety of tasks to do.
- Working directly with my employer to achieve her goals and desires for the property.
- Living on-site is great, not having to travel to and from work really is a huge benefit. Also, it makes you really feel like you are a part of the property.
- It’s not just “a job”, I have a role that encompasses things that are also my hobbies, so some of the time it doesn’t even feel like work.
- My working Labrador can come to work with me most days and is great company around the grounds.
Any advice for people looking to enter the industry?
If like me, you are working or worked in a different industry and are looking to make a change into the private estate and household area;
- Volunteering is a great way to make contacts and gain valuable experience. I have made some great connections and had some valuable experiences through volunteer work.
- Don’t be afraid to take a big step from where you are now towards this industry. There are plenty of jobs and opportunities ready for the right people who are well-motivated.
- Flexibility is key, be open to the idea of relocating. Salary, depending on your experience you may not get the higher-paid roles you hope for until you have the desired experience
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
I hope to still work for the same principal but have more responsibilities as time goes by. There are lots of long-term projects here so I’m really looking forward to starting those and seeing them through.
What is your advice for any candidate working with an agency like Polo & Tweed?
Polo and Tweed were the first agency I had ever worked with for jobs in the private household industry. They really take the time to get to know their clients and candidates, listen to their advice and ask all the questions you can think of. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience for you to take advantage of.
Any top tips for your job?
Always try to keep in the back of your mind that you are working for an individual, not a company. The goal is to deliver what the principal wants and to maintain the best possible working relationship with them.
Always try to see the bigger picture in regard to seasonal jobs. Do lots of prep work and make sure you think ahead. As this will make your job easier in the long run.
We hope you love William’s story and that it gave you a bit of an insight into his job and career path. We can help! Why not contact us today to chat about what options there may be out there for you. Have a look at our training academy to get you started, or apply for any jobs you may be interested in straight away.