Choosing a Professional Organizer

Choosing a Professional Organizer

When choosing an organizer and their services, it is paramount to find the fit that’s right for you.

Some organizers provide a wide range of services. Others specialize. The person with whom you choose to work will depend upon your situation and the goals you wish to achieve.

You will want to choose an organizer who is skilled in the areas where you need help AND with whom you are compatible. While both are important, you may find that skills may be more important in some situations and compatibility more important in other situations.

Skills

If you have a project, something specific with a finish date such as unpacking in a new home or installing closet systems, you will want to hire an organizer who is especially skilled in that area. Some organizers who focus on project work will have a team of organizers and/or other professionals who are involved in the work. Good questions to ask may be:

  1. How many projects like this have you completed?
  2. What percentage of these types of projects have you completed on time? On budget?

Compatibility

If you would like to strengthen your organizing skills you will want to hire an organizer who is adept at explaining, teaching, coaching and customizing systems and processes. This type of organizer will transfer organizing and decision-making skills to you, and therefore compatibility will be very important.

Because this kind of work is relationship-based, you will discover through verbal conversations and face-to-face interactions if the working relationship will be beneficial to you.

Other Considerations

You may have considerations in addition to skills and compatibility.

You may have a physical limitation or struggle with abilities related to focus and attention or processing of information. Telling your organizer about anything that may affect your organizing work together will allow her/him to provide you with the best help.

Perhaps you find the thought of sorting and making decisions overwhelming. There may be significant meaning behind the “stuff” and you may find relief and clarity in talking with a therapist.

You may wish to augment your success by working with additional professionals. Your particular needs and desires will determine the services and providers that you choose.

You may want to ask an organizer these questions:

1. What is your professional background?

Many organizers have had a career in another profession/s. An organizer who worked as an occupational therapist, an accountant, or an interior designer, for example, will bring a unique perspective and valued skills to their organizing work.

2. What is your educational background?

An organizer’s formal education may provide more insight into their passions or interests, and this may enhance the work she/he does for you.

Keep in mind that a formal education may not be a requirement of your organizer. For example, a stay-at- home parent who has organized and managed a family home for many years will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to her/his work.

3. What are your core beliefs about organizing?

An organizer’s philosophy will oftentimes be communicated within her/his website and marketing materials. A brief conversation can provide even more information.

4. How would you describe your approach in working with clients?

Asking an organizer how she/he approaches their work will give you a sense of how the organizing process will unfold as the two of your work together.

Not sure what you need, but know that you need help?

A phone conversation with a few organizers will begin to give you an idea of the type of organizer and services that would be right for you. She/he will be able to tell you what they could do for you, or may refer you to other organizers or even a different kind of service, if appropriate.

A few more thoughts…

It is always prudent to ask for references, but please know that due to the importance of confidentiality, organizers may not always be able to provide you with references.

Finally, the idea of working with an organizer may seem simple at first, and yet there are many pieces that must come together to have a successful working relationship. Choosing the right organizer and services begins with your assessment of your needs and some research.

Additional Information

For additional information about hiring a professional organizer please read these articles, provided by the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO):

  1. How to Hire a Professional Organizer or Productivity Consultant
  2. Suggested Questions to Ask a Potential Professional Organizer