Have you ever wished you could make a carbon copy of yourself to get everything done? Has your life become so busy that even joyous events or negotiating important purchases feels like a chore? If so, you may want to consider engaging professionals to take ownership of things you don’t have the time or desire to deal with. A lifestyle manager handle everything from dinner reservations and home renovations to holiday shopping and charity events. Keeping these simple criteria in mind while vetting them will not only spare you stress but bring greater enjoyment and efficiency to your day-to-day.
Can they anticipate your needs? The relationship between you and your lifestyle manager is much the same as any other: if you have to remind them about every little thing, it can quickly become strained. A lifestyle manager worth their salt understands that no two clients are the same. They will get to know you and your family, keeping tracking of everyone’s schedules and priorities. Have you been invited to three galas on the same night? They know which invitation to accept and to which organizations they should send your regrets. Do you visit your favorite resort the same month each year? They know all your preferences around travel, the particular suite you like to stay in, and which items in your wardrobe to get out of storage – and make all those arrangements accordingly.
Do they have the right connections? One of the great things about working with a lifestyle manager is that they save you time and energy hunting down items you want to acquire. If you are an art connoisseur, you’ll want someone who’s connected with that world so they can advise you on which artists are currently hot and who is up and coming. More importantly, they will know how to obtain those rare pieces you’re interested in. Are rare supercars your thing? Your idea lifestyle manager will know the right people to track down your heart’s desire, whether it’s part of a private collection never shown to the public or up for auction at the Barrett Jackson.
Will they always be there for you? Lifestyle management is a 24/7 industry. The right lifestyle manager will tailor their schedule to yours, whether you’re in your company’s New York City headquarters at six a.m. every day or split your time among three offices in different countries. If you have multiple residences, they are available to collaborate with household staff so they’re always ready for you or your guests to arrive.
Finally, do they utilize the latest technology? As mentioned above, you should not have to micromanage your lifestyle manager; however, constant communication between you is critical. Sometimes a quick phone call or email will suffice, but most of the time a platform from which to share information makes the most sense. For example, if they are planning your holiday affair, they can upload the guest list to the app and make real-time updates as to who is attending. If you have a list of things you need done before you leave for vacation, they can check these items off so can see they’ve been completed. If that painting or car has come on the market, they can alert you to that fact so you can decide to make the purchase.
Bottom line: there are several things you must consider when deciding which lifestyle manager is best for you. At the end of the day, however, the only real question is whether this person can sync with you and streamline your life so that it is easier and more enjoyable.
