YOU SHOULD BE STARTING A PERSONAL CONCIERGE SERVICE

You can actually limit your service or include all of these and more.  A concierge usually will do what ever needs doing that does not require the client’s presence. The word “no”should rarely, if ever, be used in your vocabulary with a client. (unless the request is illegal or unethical)

Attributes

You must first of all, be a people-person. The tasks and responsibilities of a personal concierge will not always be pleasant, but your job is to spare your client from the unpleasantness of doing such a task, that’s one reason why they hired you. It can also be fun, exciting and very rewarding.

When starting a personal concierge service you must have patience, good communication skills, flexibility, enjoy working with people and a positive attitude. It will also help to have a few administrative and organizational skills. The result will be good customers, a growing business and a genuine sense of satisfaction from helping people.

It will be essential to have knowledge of the surrounding area; restaurants, theaters, shops, and businesses, to be a great concierge. Equate yourself with every aspect of the city you plan to work. You can keep information in your computer, rolodex, notepad, wherever it will be handy for you to pull up if needed.  Keep client and business notes; who likes what from where and who offers what, and when.  Getting the picture yet? This will all be built up as you go, so do not be afraid, when starting a personal concierge service, to start slow and local.

As I said earlier, you do not have to do all these jobs by yourself.  It is perfectly acceptable to schedule members from your team (as you business builds) to take care of home maintenance or deliveries.  You may choose to work with a local travel agent that you trust for the best travel arrangements, or you may schedule those yourself either online or by phone.  The bottom line, to earn extra money at home, is that you are responsible for seeing that everything is done to perfection.  Allowing someone to make a mistake with a travel agent may cause you to find yourself losing a client. It is always worthwhile to double check with your client regarding their needs so mistakes are not made. Do not think you know what the client wants always make sure. It will pay off.

Rewards

You will have to decide what and how much you charge for your services as a concierge. Will you charge an hourly rate, or charge by the service rendered? Will you cover some charges and include them with your bill? Will you be hiring others (maybe later) to get the details done or take care of everything yourself? Your business-your choice.

However you plan on starting a personal concierge service, have a business plan.  Look and be professional. You will be placed in a position of trust and sometimes confidentiality.  The better you please your client, the better you will feel about what you do. Bonuses and referrals are usually given for jobs well done.

Watch for more tips and constructive suggestions on starting a personal concierge service. I consider it one of the better opportunities to earn extra money at home.