The Estate Management Systems Blog

The EMS team is here to help you navigate the ins and outs of managing luxury properties and lifestyles — from anywhere

Kelly Fore Dixon Kelly Fore Dixon

Hybrid Roles Serve No One

Recent job descriptions of estate managers have become a laughable list of unrealistic expectations and impossible deliverables. As with any job, an employee should have reasonable agility to adapt to ever-changing work environments. While the growing trend of homeowners wanting fewer staff in their homes is understandable, it shouldn’t be seen as an opportunity for unethical behavior.

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Kelly Fore Dixon Kelly Fore Dixon

Top 10 Ways to Improve Household Staff Retention

Whether you are firing the staff or leaving on their own accord, let’s dive deep into some areas that might help improve your staff’s longevity. Retaining top talent is a game. Are you a rookie or a seasoned pro?

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When Staff Become Family, Here's How To Set Healthy Boundaries

It is possible to care for someone AND maintain professional boundaries and expectations. In fact, it is the most respectful way to protect and respect a relationship. Here are six suggestions for successful boundaries, outlining performance expectations, and tracking accountability with household staff.

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Estate Management, Household Procedures Kelly Fore Dixon Estate Management, Household Procedures Kelly Fore Dixon

Top 7 Tips for Hiring a Household Manager: Seasoned Pro vs. Newbie Hire

In private service, experience matters. In addition to saving a life, understanding HR practices, and having the skills required for high-tech homes, private service differs from almost any other industry due to the broad range of experience needed and the personal nature of working inside someone’s home. Here are 7 factors critical to an employee's success and longevity.

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Kelly Fore Dixon Kelly Fore Dixon

Primary Source of Burnout: Vague Job Descriptions

Let’s be honest. Our worst nightmare is the first month of new employment, where we know nothing yet expect to know everything. With job descriptions leaning towards hybrid roles, let’s get clear on expectations before we sign the deal.

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Kelly Fore Dixon Kelly Fore Dixon

Hustling: Private Service is Paying The Price

The reality is that everything comes at a cost, and often, private service professionals pay the price. How do we protect ourselves and create a sustainable career in an industry where boundaries are seen as a weakness?

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