Housekeeper
Job Description:Housekeepers supervise the cleaning staff within a hotel, hospital or another establishment, making sure that all the rooms are kept clean and tidy.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- preparing shift rotas and allocating daily cleaning duties to room attendants
- inspecting rooms to make sure that standards have been met
- recording any faults or damage and making arrangements for repairs
- recruiting, training and supervising staff
- working closely with other department heads and the general manager
You may also manage budgets and order supplies.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- customer service skills
- knowledge of human resources and employment law
- business management skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- persistence and determination
- the ability to use your initiative (ambition)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations (leadership skills)
- attention to detail – precise and thorough cleaning and tidying of various areas in a home.
- organisational skills – ability to manage tasks efficiently, organise spaces, and maintain a well-kept environment.
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
- cleaning skills – proficiency in cleaning methods, stain removal, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene
- time management – efficiently allocating time for different cleaning tasks and managing a schedule
- physical stamina -housekeepers often engage in physical tasks such as lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods.
- communication – effective communication with clients or residents, particularly when discussing preferences and special requests.
- respect for privacy – discretion and respect for the privacy and personal spaces of clients or residents.
Entry Requirements:
Becoming a housekeeper typically does not have specific GCSE subject requirements, as it’s a role that focuses on practical skills and qualities related to cleaning and maintaining a household. However, certain subjects can provide a foundation for developing the skills needed for this career. Here are some relevant GCSE subjects and skills that can be beneficial for becoming a housekeeper:
GCSE Subjects
- Home Economics/Food and Nutrition: Provides knowledge of basic cleaning techniques, household management, and nutrition.
- Design and Technology: May offer insights into practical skills related to home maintenance, organization, and equipment usage.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills can be useful for measuring cleaning solutions, calculating budgets, and managing supplies.
Post School
To become a housekeeper, you will typically follow these steps:
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient for entry-level housekeeping positions.
- Experience: Gain practical cleaning experience through part-time or temporary roles, volunteer work, or helping with household chores at home.
- On-the-Job Training: Many housekeepers receive training on cleaning techniques, equipment usage, and specific preferences of clients or employers.
- Networking: Build connections within the hospitality industry or through job placement agencies that offer housekeeping positions.
- Professional Development: Stay updated on cleaning techniques, safety protocols, and new cleaning products through relevant workshops or training programs.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’d usually do shift work, including weekends and public holidays. Part-time hours may be possible.
You’ll work in hotels or other residential establishments, like holiday centres, health spas and private clubs.
Career Path & Progression:
You could progress to housekeeper or accommodation manager.
You could move into a related hotel job, like front-of-house manager, training manager, or domestic services management.