As a career coach and résumé writer specializing in private service professionals, one of the most common concerns I hear from my clients is about staying under the radar. For many, especially those serving high-net-worth families or celebrities, the idea of being active on social media is often met with hesitation. They worry about breaching confidentiality or oversharing sensitive details. And I get it—your discretion is your selling point.

But here’s the thing: the next generation of your employers—often the children or younger family members of your current principals—are living in an increasingly digital world. To them, if you don’t have an online presence, you might as well not exist. This shift in mindset is pivotal for private service professionals to understand.

You don’t have to reveal sensitive details to build an impactful presence. Let’s break it down.

The Fear of Social Media in Private Service

Traditionally, private service professionals—whether house managers, estate managers, or executive assistants—have been known for their discretion. Many believe that the less they’re seen or heard, the better they are at their job. While maintaining confidentiality remains crucial, there’s a misconception that being visible online somehow violates this principle.

Here’s the truth: social media is a tool. How you use it is what matters. Just as you wouldn’t disclose personal details in a casual conversation, you don’t have to on social media either. The key is understanding what to share and, more importantly, how to share it.

Shifting Perceptions with the Next Generation

The digital-native generation—the children of your principals—think differently. They want to see the value you bring, and that often means looking online. If they search for your name and find nothing, they may question your credibility. In their eyes, if you don’t have a social footprint, you’re outdated or irrelevant.

This may seem harsh, but it’s the reality of today’s professional landscape.

How to Showcase Your Achievements without Breaking Confidentiality

You might ask, “How do I build my reputation without crossing any lines?” The answer is simple: focus on your skills and achievements, not the names or private details.

Let’s use a high-profile example to illustrate this: If you worked for Oprah (hypothetically speaking), you wouldn’t post, “I renovated Oprah’s office last year.” Instead, you’d talk about your project in a way that protects your principal’s privacy while highlighting your expertise. You could say something like, “Over the past two years, I’ve spearheaded high-end renovation projects, transforming small guest rooms into multifunctional spaces, including an office for a principal and their daughter, a budding influencer.”

This approach allows you to highlight the breadth of your experience without exposing sensitive details. You’re demonstrating value, competence, and creativity—all while maintaining the trust of your principal.

What’s the Next Step?

Private service professionals don’t need to shy away from social media. Instead, it’s about being strategic and thoughtful. Share what you’ve done, highlight the skills you’ve mastered, and show your value—all while respecting the boundaries of confidentiality.

If you’re unsure how to navigate this fine line, that’s where I come in. I help my clients articulate their achievements in a way that not only demonstrates their expertise but also builds their online reputation.

Need help figuring out how to position yourself in this digital world? Reach out, and let’s talk about how we can set you up for success.