Questions of Discretion
(or simply Q&A)
We are often asked how we differ from concierge services, household staffing, or directories. The answers are simple, but worth stating clearly.
Discovery & Curation
Q: How do you actually find people or firms?
A: We use live market intelligence, discreet outreach, and trusted networks. Every introduction is built from scratch, never from a static list or database.
Q: Can you find organisations as well as individuals?
A: Yes. While many briefs focus on individuals, we also identify, assess, and introduce specialist firms, agencies, or partners where that is the best solution.
Q: Do you ever re-use the same person across clients?
A: Not simultaneously. Priority is always given to the first client who briefs us. In time, we may re-introduce someone if appropriate, but never in a way that compromises discretion or exclusivity.
Engagement Model
Q: What is the difference between retainer and non-retainer work?
A: Retainer clients secure priority, continuity, and incidental advisory support. Non-retainer projects are taken only if capacity allows and are subject to higher fees.
Q: What happens if a project takes longer than expected?
A: We bill transparently in time increments, so clients are always clear on the time and resources invested. Major projects are scoped in advance to provide clarity.
Q: What if my principal changes their mind mid-brief?
A: We adapt. The retainer and time-billed structure allows for flexibility as priorities evolve, while still protecting confidentiality and progress made.
Confidentiality & Trust
Q: How do you protect my principal’s privacy?
A: Information is shared only with those working directly on the mandate. We never circulate briefs beyond what is strictly necessary. Discretion is absolute.
Q: How do you protect the reputation of the people you introduce?
A: We treat both sides with equal care. Introductions are made discreetly and only when we believe there is a credible fit. We never “shop” names around.
Q: Do you ever publicise your work or client list?
A: Never. Our work is strictly confidential and always unpublicised.
Practical Matters
Q: How quickly can you deliver?
A: It depends on the brief. Some introductions can be made in days; others, especially rare or niche requests, may take longer. Our priority is always accuracy and discretion over speed for its own sake.
Q: Do unused hours on retainer roll over?
A: No. The retainer secures access and priority. At our discretion, unused hours may be credited against future project work, but this is not automatic.
Q: How do expenses work?
A: Expenses such as travel, specialist data access, or background checks are billed at cost plus a 15% administration fee, with receipts provided on request.
Scope
Q: What briefs are too small or too large?
A: None, provided they involve people, judgement, and discretion. We have sourced complete teams through to highly specialists consultants and advisors on a global basis as well as identifying and qualifying specialist agencies and partners.
Q: Do you handle household staff recruitment?
A: No. Domestic HR is not our focus. Where appropriate, we can identify and vet the right recruitment agency for that requirement.
Q: Can you support ongoing monitoring after an introduction?
A: Yes. We offer annual re-screening, behavioural profiling, and compatibility assessments to ensure continued suitability.
Closing Q&A
Q: What is your ultimate value?
A: Certainty. We reduce complexity to one to three curated solutions, verified and introduced with absolute discretion. Not more choice, but the right choice.
