By: Tim O'Leary

Tim O'Leary — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 20:46:35 +0000

Thanks. I enjoyed your story!

By: C, Warner Johnson

C, Warner Johnson — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 09:01:26 +0000

Great comment. To the point and especially when it comes to compensation, it could not be said better. My experience is a bit different. I had the honor of working for President Reagan. As it happens I spent quite a bit of time in England. I was fortunate enough to really hit it off with some close friends of the Ambassador. I found myself being entertained at several English Estates. I have always been an avid shooter from Sporting Clays to bird hunting. Shortly after what I could only call one of the best weekends of my life. My host very suddenly and tragiclly died of a heart attack. I was informed and of course went to the funeral and a reception after for close friends at the estate. I was a single parent and though my children were not real young my mother would come in to stand in for me when I had to travel. I had just purchased a large home along with acerage in the Virginia countryside. The buttler, housemaid and cook had been with my friend for many years. However he was the last of his family. Sadly, they would soon be unemployed. My friend and I discussed the benefits of having help a number of times. He knew I was unmarried and a single father of 4. He said that with the demanding schedule he had he simply could not accomplish what he did, were it not for his help. So, I asked to speak to his staff. I invited them to come to the United States, meet my children and tell me if they thought they could bring some additional order to my home. I had had a series of helpers but none of them gave me the feeling of trust I needed to both do my job, but first and foremost be a the best Dad I could. All the staff accepted my invitation. We established a date and I arranged for a car service and van to meet them at the Airport. To make a long story short, The children loved the concept and found the potential new staff members to be a delight. The new home came with a 5 Bedroom House that was intended for the Farm Manager. So they were not underfoot all the time. But since I wanted someone there 24/7 they would take turns using the servents bedroom in the back of the house. The Butler ran the show but also took part in each and ever task. Someone had to be in charge. However I described the task as one were everone was involved as the need required and common sense demanded. That was 1982. I am glad to say that all three are still with me. They are paid well, I also made them employees of my company so they could take part in a 401k and have medical and dental benefits plus disability insurance. I trusted them with my children and I would trust them with my life. Be it a dinner party, a formal event or just a quiet. day on the weekend. They are the best, amazing creative and like members of our family. My daughter was recently married I believe the ladies took the matter so to heart that they would act the same had they children of their own. I once overheard the butler explaining to my now new son in law (back when he first started to date) that “Sir” is an exceptional marksman. He has looked out for my children in virtually the same way I would do it myself.
Some rules to go by. when you have professional help. NEVER, NEVER forget that they are first people with fillings. Recognize the hard work they do and be ready willing and able to say Thank You. It goes so far. Don’t be cheap. Yes they have a set salary and a Holiday Bonus, but some of the best money I have spent is giving them an extra hundered dollars every now and again and say take the the balance of the day and do something nice for yourself. Ask their opinion. It is critical that they have a say. There is no question who is in charge, but I have found many times that a good point of view added value the the solution.. Finally, I always insisted that my children were polite and respectful to our staff. If they made a big mess (mostly when they were young) it was up to them to clean it up. I also always insisted that friends and visitors to our home were both polite and respectful of our staff. I know that each one would walk through fire for me but more so for my children. No one gets to be disrespectful to members of my family or staff. If you use common sense and respect you build a priceless asset that is more loyal and a better friend than anyone I could hope to meet. I know my friend is looking down from above and just as happy as I am to be blessed by the many efforts of these fine people. My daughter is now married, three boys still maintain rooms at my home though one works overseas most of the time. Honestly, none of us are spring chickens but the good company, care and concern on all sides for everyone involved had made a positive difference in the lives of everyone! If you have half the luck I have enjoyed you will be amazed by how much help your help can be.

Comments on: Finding Mr. French – How To Hire A Butler

By: Tim O'Leary

By: C, Warner Johnson