Hiring domestic staff is an incredibly personal process. Whether you’re looking for a nanny, housekeeper, estate manager, or private chef, these professionals will be working in your private space, often with your loved ones and prized possessions. That’s why selecting the right person goes far beyond just finding a good resume. It’s about trust, compatibility, and shared values.
Here are some practical tips and key interview questions to help you make a confident, informed decision when hiring domestic staff.
Start with Clear Expectations
Before you begin interviewing, clearly define the role. Outline:
-Daily responsibilities
-Working hours and flexibility requirements
-Travel expectations
-Any specialized skills or certifications (e.g., CPR, culinary training, experience with high-end wardrobe care)
Being transparent from the start sets the tone for an honest, productive interview process.
Screen Resumes Thoroughly
Look beyond job titles:
-Length of time in previous roles (long tenures can signal reliability)
-Experience in similar households or with high-net-worth families
-Specific skill sets that align with your needs
-Gaps in employment (ask about them in the interview, but don’t assume the worst)
Pro tip: If you’re working with a household staffing agency, they’ll often pre-screen resumes for you, saving time and ensuring better matches.
Ask the Right Interview Questions
Beyond the basics, use open-ended questions to assess how candidates think, solve problems, and communicate. Here are some helpful prompts by role:
For Nannies:
“How do you handle a child’s tantrum or emotional outburst?”
“Can you share an example of how you supported a child’s development through play or learning?”
“How do you communicate with parents about the child’s day or any concerns?”
For Housekeepers:
“What’s your process for deep-cleaning a kitchen or managing laundry for a large household?”
“How do you handle situations when you break or damage something?”
“Tell me about a time you had to manage multiple priorities; how did you organize your tasks?”
For Estate Managers or House Managers:
“Describe how you’ve managed vendor relationships or coordinated large events.”
“How do you ensure discretion and confidentiality in your work?”
“What would your previous principal say is your greatest strength?”
For Private Chefs:
“Tell me about your experience preparing meals for dietary restrictions or preferences.”
“How do you plan menus for a week? Do you accommodate last-minute changes?”
“What’s your approach to kitchen cleanliness and inventory management?”
Assess Soft Skills
In addition to experience, pay attention to qualities like:
Discretion: Can they maintain professionalism and confidentiality?
Adaptability: Are they comfortable adjusting to your family’s evolving needs?
Attitude: Do they seem proactive, respectful, and service-oriented?
A trial day or working interview can give you valuable insight into how they operate in real-time.
Conduct Reference Checks
Always speak with at least 2-3 recent references. Ask:
“How long did they work for you, and why did the employment end?”
“What were their strengths? Any areas of growth?”
“Would you hire them again?”
If you’re working with an agency, they’ll typically handle this step for you—but it’s still wise to request a reference call yourself.
Trust Your Gut—but Use a Process
Intuition is important, especially when hiring someone who will be in your personal space. But don’t let a great first impression replace a thorough vetting process. Use a checklist, take notes, and compare candidates fairly.
Be Clear on the Offer and Expectations
Once you’ve found the right person, outline everything in a written agreement, including:
-Job duties
-Salary and benefits
-Time off and schedule
-Confidentiality clauses
-Termination process
A contract protects both you and your new hire and sets the foundation for a strong, respectful working relationship.
Hiring domestic staff is not just about filling a role, it’s about building trust and harmony in your home. With the right screening approach and interview strategy, you can find a candidate who not only meets your practical needs but also becomes a valued part of your household.
If you’d like to streamline the process, working with a reputable household staffing agency can give you access to pre-screened, experienced professionals and peace of mind every step of the way.
Recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Professional Recruiting Firms for 2025, as well as by Inc Magazine’s PowerParter’s List, Pocketbook Agency is an award-winning boutique recruitment firm placing top-notch administrative roles across the US in both corporate and domestic settings. If interested in working with us or for additional inquiries, please reach out to [email protected].