How to Build a Successful Relationship with Your Private Staff – From Day One
The first day in any private household role matters. Whether you are welcoming a housekeeper, nanny, family assistant or blended support, how you introduce the role shapes everything that follows. It sets the tone, builds trust and lays the foundation for a smooth and lasting working relationship.
At HomeOrganisers, we support families across Surrey, London and the Home Counties in hiring experienced private staff. Here is how to make the first day clear, professional and successful for everyone involved.
1. Be Clear About Your Standards
Private staff work best when expectations are specific. Outline your household routines, responsibilities, hours and preferred ways of doing things. Do not assume that experience means instinct. It is perfectly acceptable to have high standards. What matters is expressing them clearly, kindly and without assumption.
First Day Checklist (Optional but Helpful)
Many families find it useful to set aside time for a calm, structured handover. This might include:
- A walk-through of key areas or equipment
- An overview of the daily routine or school runs
- Household preferences such as wardrobe care or screen time rules
- A written outline of core duties
- Clarifying how you would like to communicate day to day
2. Create a Two-Way Dialogue
Encourage your new hire to ask questions and clarify anything they are unsure about. A short check-in at the end of the day helps both sides feel confident. It also shows that open communication is welcomed and valued in your household.
3. Set Boundaries Respectfully
Whether your staff member lives in or works set hours, it is important to define working time, rest time and privacy expectations. If flexibility is required, such as occasional proxy parenting, overtime or travel, it is helpful to agree this in writing from the start. Clear boundaries avoid confusion later.
4. Get the Employment Essentials Right
As a private employer, you are legally responsible for tax, pensions, paid holiday and national insurance. Taking care of these responsibilities from day one shows your household is well run. We recommend using a specialist provider such as Stafftax or Nannytax to manage payroll, contracts and ongoing compliance.
5. Recognise Their Contribution
Private staff often go above and beyond. A genuine thank-you or a brief comment on something done well helps people feel seen and valued. In the first few weeks, informal check-ins or early feedback can go a long way towards building confidence and trust on both sides.
How We Support You as an Agency
At HomeOrganisers, our service does not end at placement. We brief every candidate before they start, ensuring they understand your household’s expectations, culture and routines. We can also provide handover templates, sample schedules or advice on written role outlines. After placement, we remain available to answer questions, adjust job descriptions or support you in resolving any early-stage concerns.
Looking to Hire Private Household Staff?
At HomeOrganisers, we understand the importance of finding the right person for your home. Whether you need a permanent housekeeper, a nanny-housekeeper, a family assistant or a multi-skilled live-in role, our team will help you recruit with confidence and care.
Contact us today to begin your search in confidence. We are here to guide you from the first conversation through to a successful first day and beyond.
FAQs: Starting the Relationship Right
- What is the best way to welcome private staff?
Introduce them clearly. Walk through the household and explain your expectations. Be available for questions.
- Do I need a written contract for my nanny or housekeeper?
Yes. A written agreement protects both parties. Nannytax and Stafftax both offer contract templates and payroll services.
- How do I know if the placement is working out?
During the first week, take time to check in. Ask how things are going and whether any support or adjustments are needed.
Updated June 2025 to reflect current best practices for household staffing and employer support.