Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Professional Organizer?

A Professional Organizer is a consultant who provides structure, solutions and systems to increase productivity and reduce stress. Professional Organizers help others restore order to their lives creating systems and helping them form new habits that enable them to live and work in a peaceful, non-chaotic environment.The field of professional organizing has existed since 1985. Today there are over three thousand members of the National Association for Professional Organizers (NAPO) and over three hundred members of Professional Organizers in Canada (POC).The need for this service industry has come about as lifestyles have become increasingly more complex, filled with more information, responsibilities, work and possessions. (Please see next post for IAPO's definition.)

How do I decide if being a Professional Organizer is the right for me?

Many successful professional organizers are individuals who have a natural ability to create systems and order and have a passion for organizing.

* If what you have learned about this profession so far is exciting to you
* If you have great organizational skills
* If you genuinely love being of service
* If you love to learn
* If you love being a resource for people
* If you want to create a company of your own visioning ~ one where you'll do work you love

~ chances are, becoming a Professional Organizer is right for you.

What qualities do I need to run a successful Professional Organizing business?

Successful Professional Organizers...

* Have the magic ~ open ears, engaged minds and ready hearts.
* Have the touch and are able to simplify processes and practice good work ethics.
* Are always open and adaptable to new ideas and willing to learn new things.
* Are quick ~ no matter what it is, they're able to pick up the ball and run with it.
* Are intuitive ~ they listen well and can understand what's really being said.
* Are proactive ~ they can identify problems and recommend solutions.
* Are confident ~ they trust their intuition and are extremely self-assured.
* Are committed ~ they remain focused, driven and passionate.

Successful Professional Organizers are dedicated, driven, masterfully organized professionals who genuinely want to positively impact the lives of people they work with.

Can I do this business on a part-time basis?

You can structure your business any way you like. The beauty of owning your own business means that you can operate it as you wish. It's your business. You set your own hours, and if you only have one day a week, or evenings and weekends only, then yes, you can operate your organizing business on a part-time basis.!Many new organizers keep their full-time job, and work part-time to build a business until the income generated is at least at par with the income earned at their full-time job.

Do I have to join an association to become a Professional Organizer?

As with other small and home-based businesses, we would strongly advise that you join one or more associations or organizations where you can network with other entrepreneurs and potential clients. We also recommend that a new PO (Professional Organizer) should consider the following organizations dedicated to promoting and supporting the field of professional organizing.

NAPO - National Association of Professional Organizers
POC - Professional Organizers in Canada
NSGCD - National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization

In addition to the above, we would also suggest that you join local small business associations such as your Chamber of Commerce, Board of Trade or other similar groups.

What are the costs involved when starting an organizing business?

That depends entirely on your budget and your desire to learn and to be involved with the many training and networking opportunities available. Since there is absolutely no need to take on office space other than your home office, you do not have to worry about rent. (Clients will not be visiting you at your office anyway).

If you wish to join networking associations, such as NAPO, POC, your local Chamber of Commerce or Board of Trade, your annual fees need to be considered. Assuming that you already own a computer and printer, business cards, brochures and other materials can be printed from your own office or handled professionally.

Some organizers hire the services of a bookkeeper, while others perform their own accounting duties.

Can one earn a living as a Professional Organizer?

Although there are many variables such as one's determination, marketing ability and location ~ the answer is yes, most definitely. As life becomes more and more hectic, busy individuals need your help ~ and they're willing to pay for it.

What can I expect to earn as a Professional Organizer?

Generally speaking, your geographic location, experience and skill sets will dictate your fees. However, a new PO with great skills and great training can expect to earn $30+ per hour in the residential market and upwards of $50+ per hour in the corporate market. A Professional Organizer with an established reputation can earn much more ($90 - $150 per hour) depending on the types of projects.Keep in mind that many hours of your time will not be billable time as many hours will be spent working on the administrative and sales side of the business.

How long does it take to build a business as a Professional Organizer?

A lot depends on the time you have to invest. If your plan is to launch into this and work at it full-time, you could have a thriving business in a matter of months. If you plan to work part-time, and you have less time to invest in marketing your services, it will more than likely take longer.Traditional business wisdom tells us that it takes an average small business owner two to five years to build a business. It could take you that long, and you need to be ready for that reality ~ however, due to the high demand in this relatively new industry, most Professional Organizers do it in far less time.

What does a client expect from a Professional Organizer?

A client will expect an organizer to be competent in his/her specialized area, to be honest, to be responsible, to stand behind his/her work, and to maintain confidentiality. It is important for a PO to discuss with a client what he/she expects and for the client to be aware of what a PO can provide.

What kind of specialties are there?

While the possibilities are endless, specialties include...

* residential organizing
* office organizing
* personal productivity
* event planning
* relocation or move assistance
* financial organizing
* seminars and workshops
* computer training and organizing
* memorabilia and scrapbooking
* project management
* space planning
* time management
......and so much more!

How does one become a Professional Organizer?

You have great organizational skills. You're sure of it. You've been like this for years and the idea of having your own business, using your talents and doing work you love is infinitely appealing.

Most new PO's become aware of the field of professional organizing from magazine or newspaper articles or from seeing a featured organizer on television. Then many go searching for further information on the internet aware that they have been blessed with natural skills and organizational abilities, yet perhaps unsure how to start a new business as a Professional Organizer. That is where a comprehensive training program comes in...

The Comprehensive Training Program is designed to add to your existing skill sets and teach you how to develop a viable and thriving business. You are guided through the initial decision making process as well as moving forward into working with clients.

We firmly believe that organizers who are armed with in-depth information and knowledge about the industry will get their businesses up and running much quicker than those who try to do it on their own.You and your business deserve every advantage. We offer the training and support necessary to empower you to succeed as a Professional Organizer.

If you choose to start your business on your own, we wish you all the best, however, if you want a road map for success which will allow you to miss most of the bumps and potholes along the way, you'll want to take part in the Comprehensive Training Program ~ taking a quantum leap towards your success. Click here to learn more about it!

All the best!

Debra