What is Discretion in Private Service?
Discretion means handling sensitive information, situations, and interactions with the utmost confidentiality and tact — ensuring that principals feel completely safe and respected in their own home. For UHNW clients, discretion is not optional. It is a non-negotiable requirement of employment. A single breach of confidentiality can permanently and irrevocably end a career in private service.
Why Privacy Matters for UHNW Principals
- Personal Security: Protecting travel schedules and daily routines prevents targeted security threats
- Reputation Protection: A single breach causes lasting, significant damage to personal and business interests
- Household Harmony: A culture of privacy builds the deep trust required for a harmonious household
- Legal Framework: NDAs are standard — but true discretion goes far beyond legal terms. It is a personal mindset and commitment.
The Absolute Rules of Discretion
- What you see, hear, or learn inside the household stays there — ALWAYS, without exception
- Never share personal details or identifying information about your employer with anyone
- Never discuss the principal’s routines, current location, travel schedule, or family matters outside the household
- Never post anything work-related on any social media platform — ever, under any circumstances
- Never confirm or deny the principal’s presence to any unexpected visitor, caller, or inquiry
- If journalists or unknown persons ask questions — politely decline all information and immediately inform security
Non-Intrusive Service: Invisible Service
- Move quietly and smoothly through all spaces — your presence should barely be noticed
- Anticipate the principal’s needs proactively — before they need to ask
- Always knock clearly and wait for acknowledgement before entering any private room
- If you accidentally overhear a private conversation — act entirely as though you heard nothing
Your standard response when asked about your employer:
“I’m not at liberty to discuss my work.”
Key Rule: What happens in the household STAYS in the household. There are absolutely no exceptions to this rule — ever.
