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Becoming a Professional Organizer
Interested in learning more about the field of professional organizing? Here are answers to some common questions about becoming a professional organizer.
Frequently asked questions
Q: I've always been an organized person and people constantly comment on my organizing abilities. Does this mean I will make a good professional organizer?
A: While being organized yourself is a definite asset, simply doing what works for you may be too limiting for the client. Critical skills that a Professional Organizer must have are the ability to create customized organizing solutions for each client and to communicate clearly the steps necessary to implement them.
Q: Why does one choose to become an Organizer?
A: Organizing can offer flexible work hours, a chance to run your own business, and opportunities to work with people. Many Organizers have found organizing after careers in other fields. Some have had the experience of repeatedly being called upon to perform organizing tasks for organizations and businesses and recognized the option of doing the same work on their own terms. Others decided to pursue organizing and then worked as assistants or apprentices until they gained the experience and confidence to start businesses of their own.
Q. Can I make a living being a professional organizer?
A. As in any service profession, there are many variables involved in the success of a business. Your marketing efforts, your skill level, the amount of time you devote to it, and even your geographical area can affect your organizing business. Public awareness of the organizing industry is increasing and stimulating the demand for organizers.
In a NAPO membership survey in June 1998, 35% of our members said they bill between 20-40 hours per week and 42% said they had a gross income of $30,000 and above. Over 96% of NAPO members own their own business. The answer is yes!
Q: How do I find out more about becoming a professional organizer?
A: Most people become aware of professional organizing as a field of business from magazine or newspaper articles or from seeing a featured organizer on television. If there is a NAPO chapter in your area, go to a meeting to discover what these organizers are doing.
Q: What do clients expect from a Professional Organizer?
A: Clients expect a Professional Organizer to be competent, to be honest, to be responsible, and to stand behind their work. Perhaps most importantly, they expect an Organizer to maintain confidentiality. It is important for Professional Organizers to discuss expectations with their clients and clearly define the services they can provide.
Q: What kind of organizing specialties are there?
A: Professional Organizers have a vast array of services and skills they can provide. Organizing areas include business and residential organizing, paper and electronic information management, event planning, relocation assistance, and more. Some Organizers are generalists while others specialize in specific areas.
Sources: NAPO, NAPO-WI, and NAPO-NY Members
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National Association of Professional Organizers - NAPO is The Organizing Authority
Telephone: (262)524-0889