In a recent episode of The Private Chef Podcast, Brittany Dolin, co-founder of Pocketbook Agency, delves into her experience as a personal and executive assistant for high-profile families. Her journey in this role served as the catalyst for establishing a recruitment firm dedicated to building enduring connections. Drawing on her insightful comprehension of leaders and ultra-high-net-worth families, Brittany focuses on the family office sector, engaging in collaborations with prominent families across the nation.
Starting as a Personal Assistant for UHNW family
Brittany began her career as a personal assistant for an ultra high net worth family in Los Angeles. It was during this time that she met her co-founder, Nicole, who was also an assistant on the family's team. Working closely together, they developed a vast network of contacts within the entertainment and philanthropy industries. This led to their side business of helping other assistants find jobs, which eventually evolved into the creation of Pocketbook Agency.
Revolutionizing the Recruitment Industry
After several years of building Pocketbook Agency while still working as full-time assistants, Brittany and Nicole realized the demand for their services and decided to turn their side business into a full-fledged company. They wanted to be different from other recruiting firms and focused on modernizing the industry. Through their "smarter staffing technique," they prioritize not only hard skills and experience but also soft skills and personality traits that align with their clients' needs.
Giving Notice and Maintaining Relationships
When it comes to giving notice, Brittany emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with your current employer. She shares her own experience of starting Pocketbook Agency and how she and Nicole were honest with their employers about their decision to start their own company. By being transparent and expressing their gratitude for the support they received, they were able to leave on good terms and even maintain a working relationship with their previous employers.
The Power of References in the Hiring Process
References play a crucial role in the hiring process, providing insights into a candidate's past performance and suitability for a role. Brittany highlights the significance of thorough reference checks and how Pocketbook Agency goes beyond just checking references. If a reference raises any red flags or hesitations, they dig deeper to gather more information and provide honest feedback to potential employers. This ensures that both parties have a clear understanding of the candidate's strengths and weaknesses.
Challenges and Rewards of Working in the Private Service World
Working as an assistant in the private service world comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Brittany shares her experience of adapting to the unique lifestyles and demands of ultra high net worth families. While it can be overwhelming at first, she emphasizes the importance of embracing the role and finding joy in the exciting and diverse tasks that come with it. Building strong relationships with clients and becoming an integral part of their lives can lead to long-lasting and fulfilling careers.
Negotiating Benefits and Longevity in Private Service Roles
In private service roles, benefits and longevity can vary greatly depending on the family and the demands of the job. Brittany discusses the importance of negotiating fair benefits, such as paid time off and parental leave, to ensure the well-being and satisfaction of employees. While some families may offer more generous benefits, it ultimately depends on the individual circumstances and the relationship between the employee and the family. Open communication and understanding are key to creating a mutually beneficial working arrangement.
The Role of Attitude and Personality in Private Service
Attitude and personality play a significant role in private service roles. Brittany emphasizes that soft skills and the ability to connect with clients on a personal level are just as important as hard skills and experience. Building strong relationships and becoming a trusted partner to the family can lead to long-term job security and opportunities for growth within the household. Attitude is everything, and a positive and adaptable mindset can make a significant impact on the success and longevity of a private service career.
Financial Independence and Job Security
Brittany and I also discuss the importance of financial independence for private service professionals. Having a financial safety net allows individuals to make more informed decisions about job opportunities and negotiate from a position of strength. Brittany encourages chefs and assistants to prioritize saving and investing, as it provides a sense of security and the freedom to choose the best-fit roles without feeling financially dependent on a single employer.
Conclusion
The private service world offers unique challenges and rewards for professionals in the industry. Building lasting connections, embracing different lifestyles, and prioritizing personal and professional growth are key to success. By focusing on modernizing the recruiting industry and prioritizing both hard and soft skills, Pocketbook Agency has revolutionized the way families and candidates find their perfect match. With a commitment to honesty, transparency, and building strong relationships, Brittany and her team continue to make a positive impact in the private service world.
Tune in to this enlightening episode of The Private Chef Podcast.
For further insights into Brittany Dolin's agency, connect with her on LinkedIn or visit her website.
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