Interview with a Professional Organizer

How did you become a Professional Organizer?

Like many other professional organizers, I feel that I have been blessed with a special "organizing gene". As long as I can remember, I have always looked for ideas and better ways to keep things organized and to do things more efficiently. I can't imagine living in any other manner. Prior to starting my organizing business, I held senior level administrative positions where keeping others organized was an integral part of my job. After reviewing a list of my strengths and weaknesses, it became quite evident that my ability to thoroughly understand the processes and challenges of disorganization and procrastination would play a major role in my new company.

Did you have a formal business plan when you first started your organizing business?

No, I did not write a formal business plan when I first started out and that is one of the things that I regret. However, as with many other brand new organizing businesses, my plan would have changed continuously since the start of my business... and it would have been nice to have a blueprint.

My organizing business has gone in entirely new directions and has opened up many new opportunities. Although I did have some very clear goals at the beginning, there is no way that I could have planned the scope of my business today. I could never have imagined communicating with thousands of organizers throughout the world ~ I could never imagined the thrill of sharing with like-minded individuals ~ those that share the same values ~ those that share the same dreams! And after having been in business four years, I could never have imagined the success that I have enjoyed.

Could you describe your typical work day

This work is so varied as a new organizer, that I am not sure there is a typical work day. In the earlier stages of my business, one day would find me working with a homemaker putting a child's room or kitchen in order, while another day I may be organizing a filing system for a small business. I usually wake up by 5:00 a.m., browse at e-mail, complete my work-out session and shower by 6:30. Then I spend time responding to e-mail as well as working on our web site. (I find the web so much faster early in the morning).I try to schedule two three-hour client visits per day ~ one at 9:00 a.m. and the second at 1:00 p.m. If feasible, I also book an Initial Consultation outside these time frames along my route. I find that clients are only at their best for periods of no more than three hours in length. The decision making process tends to drain them physically. (I also find that I need a rest ~ or a change ~ after three hours).

What is the best way to get in touch with you?

As many that know me can attest, I am not an night owl ~ in fact, the very opposite. I get up before the birds sometimes ~ but there's a down side ~ once they have played the music for final Jeopardy ~ which is 7:55 p.m. here ~ my mind and body are already retiring for the evening.

Occasionally I will need to attend an evening function ~ and once in a while my family can amuse me so that I stay up later ~ but for the most part, all communication with the outside world ceases and e-mails are returned in the early morning hours.The best way to get in touch with us would be to either leave a voicemail message at our offices (1-8888-739-9965) or write an e-mail to Debra@ProfessionalOrganizers.com and we will contact you within 24 hours.

What do you find to be the most exciting part of your business?

It is so rewarding to see the expressions on our client's faces I love that sense of accomplishment that we have literally changed a person's life. It's also a wonderful feeling to hear that our name has been passed along to a friend or colleague because they know that we would be able to help fill a need! Word-of-mouth advertising will play a huge role in determining an organizer's success ~ and it's also a true measure as to how well you are doing!

What do you find to be the most frustrating part of your business?

Those clients who recognize their need to get organized, but are not motivated or self-disciplined enough to start or stick with a system.

Every person interested in entering the professional organizing field is wondering "Can I earn a living doing this?" Is it possible?

You certainly can make a living as a Professional Organizer. I firmly believe that one can do anything they put their mind to. Having said that, there is a definite need for Professional Organizers, and if you are good at what you do and take the necessary steps to market your business, you will be in demand on referrals alone. However, even though you are organized, you will need to understand the basics of owning and operating your own organizing business.

Do you have any tips or advice for new organizers?

Always have an open mind for new areas of your profession. Just because you start out doing personal organizing sessions, does not mean that you are limited to doing just that. There are many opportunities to share your knowledge in articles, books, cassettes and public speaking. The possibilities are truly endless. Educate yourself, join at least one networking group, and perhaps offer your services to acquaintances for free so that you gain experience! (Don't forget to take before and after pictures.) Most of all ~ have fun!

Always do something that you love and it will be fulfilling financially and spiritually.

Debra