If your car broke down, would you ask your neighbor to fix it for you?  Maybe in a pinch. But a professional mechanic would have all the resources and tools to handle any problem that arose in the repair process. And, if they didn’t, they would have access to other mechanics who did have that expertise and equipment to do the job.

You realize your organizing project is not moving forward.  You’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start.

You have options; your sister-in-law has offered to help…a neighbor has posted flyers offering organizing services…people have recommended TaskRabbit and Craigslist. When you googled home organizing help near you, “Professional Organizers” came up. It’s an important decision because you need to trust this person. Having someone go through your garden shed or getting stuff to the dump is different than having someone coaching you to make decisions about what to keep and how to store it.

How do you decide?

Different solutions fit different people

There’s nothing wrong with getting help from family or casual providers. But there are distinct advantages to working with a seasoned professional…specifically Professional Organizers. One of those advantages is that a professional would be able to help you create systems that you can maintain … and apply to future projects.

Questions to Ask

Education – What kind of training do you have?

Professional Organizers have access to education through professional organizations and are actually encouraged to stay abreast of trends, resources and new challenges. Many go on to earn certification in specific areas and maintain that certification with continuing education.

Confidentiality & Ethics – Do they promise not to share your personal information? 

As professionals, we take an oath and are committed to put the clients need first. We feel responsibility we feel toward the client…the ethics stuff when you join NAPO.

Compassionate/Non-Judgmental – How do they handle emotions that come up for clients? 

You want the person who helps you be kind, understanding and encouraging…not overwhelmed by your situation. A friend might not be as impartial because they know you too well. They may bring their own attachments.

Insurance – What if something breaks?

Liability insurance that professionals carry protects you as the homeowner in case something breaks or someone gets hurt during the work.

Resources – Do they know the options for responsibly dealing with things you don’t want to keep?

Professional Organizers typically are well connected to other professionals in the field and expertise around donations, recycling, resale. They have access to haulers, appraisers, handyfolk and other helpful people.

Community – Are they connected to the Organizing Industry?

We are members of NAPO, the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals. Our motto is, “Together we are better!” Being part of this community enables us to stay current on trends, share training and resources, leverage expertise, make good referrals and expedite projects with access to other team members.

Go to the online directory at NAPO.net to search for professionals who can provide what you specifically need in your area.