Today I’m welcoming Professional Organizer Kathleen Boland to the blog to answer a few often asked questions about working with a Professional Organizer.
When I first get a call from a client, you can hear their emotions through the phone. Some are shy and quiet when they explain their situation. Others are on the brink of tears and want someone to tell them it will all be ok. No matter the person, I always get the same questions… not necessarily in this order.
1. What will you make me do?
I will not “make” you do anything that you don’t want to do. It is my job to guide you to make decisions about your personal items, clutter and piles. I will help you decide what is important and what can be purged, donated or re-purposed. I will push you a little outside your comfort zone to make the changes that you already know you need to do.
2. How long will this take?
This will depend on a few things. A. The size of the space we are dealing with. B. The amount of clutter in that space. C. The speed at which you and I can work. D. The support and helping hands that will assist us. E. The budget. F. Unforeseen issues.
3. Will you clear out my relatives (or friends) home for me?
Yes, with the permission of the relative or friend. A surprise attack will not help someone change their habits and can cause unnecessary stress and possibly anger. An honest and heartfelt conversation with a disorganized person can open up a dialogue about the services of a Professional Organizer that you can recommend.
4. Where will my stuff go?
To the best of my ability I will make sure that usable and clean objects will be donated to a charity, company or association that will re-purpose them or sell them. I will re-cycle those items that can be and the rest will be thrown out.
5. What is the cost of your services?
The rates of a Professional Organizer may range depending on their experience, their education and their location. You can expect anywhere from $50.00/hour up to and exceeding $150.00/hour. There may also be a minimum number of hours for a single session as well as travel costs depending on your location from the Professional Organizer. Some Professional Organizers also provide a consultation so that you can meet and see if you would like to work together.
6. How do I find a Professional Organizer?
Professional Organizers in Canada (POC) and the National Organization of Professional Organizers (NAPO) have directories that can help you find someone in your area. You can read about your Professional Organizer and find one that will work on the project you have in mind.
You can be assured that there is nothing that I haven’t seen or heard regarding clutter. Professional Organizers just want to help you get some control over the cluttered spaces that are causing you stress. They work with a code of ethics and create a confidential work environment that makes organized changes.
Have you ever worked with a Professional Organizer before? If so, what was your experience like?
Kathleen Boland is a Professional Organizer with over 15 years experience in helping her clients clear the clutter and chaos to make time for life. She wrestles three children, a new dog, a blind cat and a spouse into an organized life one day at a time. You can follow her blog about getting organized at An Organized Life.
ter@waaoms says
I would love to get a professional organizer, particularly for my paper clutter, but of course money is a factor. Some people think I should become a professional organizer but I think I’d need to practice what I preach! LOL It’s so much easier to organize someone else’s space. Again, though, part of my issue is money.
Elle says
I would love to do this job. Or should i say, I would love it if there was training to do this job. I sure could use it! LOL.
I like to browse websites and get ideas. That way I don’t have to pay $50/hour and up to my home organized. I never used to think I was a packrat or a hoarder, but I am more of one than I want to be even though my house is clean in comparison to some people’s homes I’ve been too. I just want to live with less junk! The one thing I learned after my mom died is that you surely can’t take this stuff with you. The more stuff you have, the more burden your children will have when you die to clean it up, sell it, or fight over it in court.
Allysgrandma says
Yes and my BIL still teases me mercillesly about it. Pay him $300.00 and he will clean up my crap too! In all fairness, at the time I was completely overwhelmed thinking my YD, SIL and granddaughter were all going to come and live with us, but SIL passed his medical board and the Marines kept him! So I did clear out a bedroom completely for them, organized my office, and my entertainment center. Did they stay that way? Not so much, but then YD and granddaughter just left after living with us for 6 months with SIL in Afghanistan. Now I am working on Laura’s 52 week challenge and feeling very motivated.