Most young people learn these skills by helping with housework at home. Others learn on the job. Some learn skills such as meal planning and preparation in home economics courses. These courses are taught in high school and community colleges. For persons wishing a job serving as a companion or caring for children, an educational background in an area such as child development can be important.
Most employers prefer people who are neat, clean, trustworthy, and in good health.
Employers often ask that applicants supply character references. Most jobs require experience and a driver's license. Advancement opportunities for domestic service workers generally come in the form of higher pay. Workers may advance by changing to homes where greater skills are required. Such opportunities are limited, however.