Potential candidates seeking employment with Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, must pass an unusual test to improve their chances of being hired. Job interviews are inherently stressful, and standards within royal households are exceptionally high. From King Charles's specific tea preferences to appropriate attire, numerous rules and protocols govern royal employment.
The Dead Fly Test
According to Tracey Waterman, the royal family's head of staff recruitment, a strong attention to detail is crucial. In Channel 5's documentary Sandringham: The Royals at Christmas, Waterman revealed her unconventional method for identifying the best candidates. She places a dead fly either in the fireplace or on the carpet before bringing the candidate into the room. She then observes whether the candidate notices the insect and how they respond.
Waterman explained: "It's a great test." However, only "one out of 10 [candidates] will actually bend down and pick [the fly] up." Those who do, she added, "That's the special housekeeper."
Workplace Rules for the Waleses
Once hired, employees must adhere to additional rules. For William and Catherine, many guidelines aim to "ensure informality and a good work atmosphere rather than adhering to rigid royal traditions." The couple enforces a "zero tolerance" policy on gossiping and prefers a more informal dress code, especially when aides are around their children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Valentine Low wrote in his book Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind the Crown: "The kids run around the office, and [William] does not want it to be stuffy." However, formal workwear is required for important meetings or visits to Buckingham Palace.
Royal Background
Catherine married Prince William on April 29, 2011, at Westminster Abbey, after being in a relationship since 2003. Following their wedding, she became Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge, while William was created Duke of Cambridge, Earl of Strathearn, and Baron Carrickfergus. On September 9, 2022, Catherine became Princess of Wales after William was created Prince of Wales by his father, King Charles III. Prince William's mother, Diana, was the previous Princess of Wales; she died in a car crash in August 1997 at age 36.
