The domestic and household work industry is notorious for its flexibility and the availability of different roles to suit different lifestyles and requirements. Whether you’re interested in housekeeping, childcare, or something that covers a range of different areas, the broad selection of available roles means that you will often find opportunities to live-in or adopt a more traditional work pattern and live externally.
Having said that, if there’s one thing we know about domestic work, it’s that the hours can change and the demands from clients can shift from season to season. Could a two-person opportunity, and the rise in jobs for couples in London, be the solution for couples across the industry?
What Do Couples’ Roles Involve in the Domestic Industry?
A couples role typically covers two (or more) different responsibilities, essentially providing enough work to support two individuals. Appealing to those couples who are both active in the same industry, perhaps with different skills and interests, these kinds of opportunities enable them to work for the same employer and in the same household, carrying out different tasks to keep the household moving.
Working together means that couples see each other without impacting their work and can often therefore work more flexible hours. It also means, for a couple who are good at working together and who bring different skills to the table, that they can run the home together and manage all the tasks required between them.
Are Me and My Other Half a Good Fit?
The versatility of domestic roles, and the differing needs of clients, means that each job needs to be approached as a different opportunity. Some clients are looking for support inside and with garden maintenance which would suit a couple with different skills and interests, while other clients are seeking a couple who can work together on keeping the household running.
If you both work in the industry and have good references, a strong reputation, and an excellent work ethic, a couples role can be a good way to solidify your future in domestic work together.
Application Tips for Couples
The important thing when applying for a role as a couple is to identify your individual skills and experiences – positioning both of you as a viable and strong candidate for specific positions.
The benefit of hiring a couple for the client is that they need only provide one accommodation solution – housing the two of you in a self-contained flat or apartment. However, they also need to know that you are both up to the job and can both bring individual values to the roles that you are applying for.
When building your application, highlight your individual roles and experiences, and your flexibility to work as a team. For more advice specific to you and your partner, get in touch with your local recruitment specialist.