Frequently Asked Questions

What does a professional organizer do? 
Professional organizers perform many organizing tasks. These tasks include residential and small business organization; time and paper management; clutter control; behavior modification; space planning; event planning; filing system set up; financial management; packing/moving; photography/memorabilia; home offices; errands; etc...
Professional organizers may be specific in their duties or may be very general, offering a wide range of services. Some professional organizers work with corporations; offer products, written materials, workshops and seminars. Also they may be involved on a local level or on a national or international level.

How do you become a professional organizer?
At this time there is no official credentials. NAPO (National Organization of Professional Organizers) is currently in the process of developing coursework and a certificate program.  NAPO is also a helpful resource for referrals and mentoring. Contact NAPO at www.NAPO.net for further information regarding their services. There is not an "official" manual to professional organizing, but there are many helpful references in the library, bookstores and online. The main qualities a future professional organizer should have include exceptional organizing skills, thorough knowledge of organizing products and services and an extensive understanding of a professional organizers duties.  It is also helpful to have a background in a related field such as management, counseling, teaching, household management, and any other field in which organizing skills are vital.

How do you know if an organizer is "qualified"?
Request information on their background, business history, membership in affiliated organizations i.e. NAPO, organizing philosophy, bonding status and most importantly references.  Meet with the organizer, usually after talking to them you will be able to assess whether you trust them or not.  Intuition is always your best guide.

How can I benefit by a professional organizer?
There is often a new freedom and renewed sense of self once a project is completed. Even the start of a project will give you joy. All areas in your home and office can benefit. You will regain management of your time, space, projects, boxes, paperwork and clutter. Personalized systems tailored to your individual needs are developed; expert advice is suggested for problem areas; new behaviors are taught to maintain organization after the organizers are gone; embarrassment, frustration, stress, low self esteem, lack of control,  and waste are reduced. All services are guaranteed to be confidential and discrete.

Do you need to prepare before a visit?
Please do not clean up, an organizer needs to assess the true situation. We may make several suggestions to begin the process during the initial consultation and assign homework in between visits. Supplies will be agreed upon between client and organizer.  We just ask you to be ready to commit to the process. Letting go and making tough decisions are tough, but we will help you along the way. Organizers don't clean and cleaners don't organize.

How long does it take to get my home or office organized?
This depends upon many factors. How big is the project? Are you willing to have  more than one person on the job? Will you be able to assist in the process? How quickly can you make decisions? Are you fully committed to making this work? and Are you willing and committed to doing your homework assignments?. It is also helpful to keep the momentum going with a follow up appointment(s). Patience is essential, it wasn't cluttered in one day and it won't go away in one appointment.

How much does it cost to hire a professional organizer?
Rates are set by each individual organizing company. The rates may vary depending on the services provided, size of job, level of experience and  training expertise. Rates usually range between $35 to $300/hr. Plan to pay at the end of each appointment or at least once a week. If you have a budget in mind, let your organizer know up front. Some organization companies take credit cards, though many do not.