A varied skill set is essential

Christopher Noble, director of training at the International Butler Academy in Chengdu, said that in addition to household and hospitality skills, a successful butler must also have the ability to communicate effectively, balance tricky relations in a big family and separate his or her own life from that of their employer.

"There is no vacation. Christmas season is a busy time," the United States' native said.

The school stresses communication skills. "There are many ways to say 'yes' or 'no' directly, and there is always a way to say it more delicately," he added.