A professional organizer is there to create order from chaos. You probably have friends who have used one, but there’s more to a professional organizer than meets the eye.
Being a professional organizer is complex and sometimes invasive, but money is well spent in all sorts of scenarios. Did you know a professional organizer can also help in business settings as well as domestic ones?
The role is multi-faceted; they’re part organizer and part life coach, and they’re recognized by two professional bodies. So, if you’re thinking about hiring one, read on to find out what you need to consider before you hit that click.
Professional Organizers are Just That – Pros!
Those who have used a professional organizer before will understand that these people are specialists; they even have their own governing bodies.
As described by the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO), a professional organizer will ‘support evaluation, decision-making, and action around objects, spaces and data…’.
Be prepared to allow time to work with a pro-organizer, even if you only want to sort out one room in your home. Expect an in-depth consultation and a thorough survey of the space, including measurements and photographs.
Be ready for a pro who takes their job seriously and who will make a 100% commitment to your project.
Expect to Have to Let Go and Throw
A professional organizer will take a deep dive into your cluttered space and expect to discover why you can’t dump things if you find it hard to let go. It isn’t only house clearance but more a psychological journey that aims to put you in a better place.
Your pro-organizer will be with you every step of the way to help you make difficult decisions about whether to keep, donate, gift, or trash items. Clearing out your home has many mental health benefits, and your pro-organizer will take you on this journey with you.
It’s your decision to ultimately do what with each item, and a professional organizer should always ask permission before moving something or disposing of it.
Allow Time
Part of being a professional organizer is putting systems in place in someone’s home to create order. Plus, sorting out what to keep, what goes where, and organizing donations and a dumpster takes time.
If you’re on a schedule, you need to think about how a pro-organizer fits into your availability. You might be clearing a relative’s property after they pass away, or you could be preparing to move house yourself or even unpacking at the other end, and that clock is ticking.
If you want to hire a professional organizer, it’s best to plan ahead of your deadline. If time is limited, you might better identify one or two key areas where you need help if the whole project is too large for the available time.
Consider Cost
Professional organizers charge an hourly rate—or give you a fixed price for the whole project. However, there are add-ons.
You’ll need to buy products to help with the clearance, ranging from shelving and storage units to trash bags for junk. Professional organizers usually work with a junk disposal company, so you’ll also have to meet their costs unless they include that in the price.
A good organizer will ensure that items are disposed of sustainably and correctly and work with a junk disposal company with an excellent environmental profile.
Professional organizers usually require a deposit. If you are working on an hourly rate, then make sure you ask for an estimate of anticipated hours based on the project size.
When you see the costs on paper, it might seem a lot at first. However, it’ll save you time, and the psychological benefits are priceless. Think of it as an investment.
Most people who’ve used pro-organizers understand that they couldn’t have achieved what they did on their own or in a limited timeframe.
Need Help with Junk Removal in the Bay Area, CA?
Nixxit Junk Removal can help with your junk removal needs in the Bay Area.
- Full-Service Junk Removal and Sorting
- We Do the Heavy Lifting and Loading
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Donation and Recycling
- Same Day Appointments Available!
Psychological and Emotional Preparation
If you’re a bit of a hoarder and find it hard to let go of things, or perhaps you’re clearing the family home after bereavement, then allowing a third party into that personal journey can be a big deal.
It’s important to take time to find the right organizer. There are many organizers that also specialize in Hoarding and other OCD behaviours. Maybe you can get a friend or family member to support you and help you with those difficult decisions.
Don’t forget that a junk disposal company will likely be involved, too. Find out from your organizer who they use and what the process is.
Finding the Right Organizer
Finding the right fit for a professional organizer is essential, so interview a few – you’ll know when you’ve met the right one. Try and be honest if you have specific issues; it’ll help you source the right individual.
Check out their certifications, references, and insurance. If you’ve defined problem areas, don’t be shy about discussing them. If you interview away from the premises, take photos to show prospective candidates.
Word of mouth is good if you can get a recommendation from someone you trust. Just remember, they may not have used their pro-organizer for the same issues you did.
NAPO has a handy directory if you’re stuck on how to get started.
Professional Organizers are Not Just for Homes
Professional organizers are often seen online in the domestic setting but can also be helpful for businesses. Time is money, and if your retail outlet needs a refresher and you can’t see the wood for the trees, why not consider hiring a pro?
Professional organizers work with junk removal companies, offering clearance for fixtures and fittings and product destruction for all types of businesses. However, always double-check that the company your professional organizer uses can take your junk; there may be limitations on some products and hazardous materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Expect When You Hire a Professional Organizer?
Expect someone who is just that, professional this is their business, so they’ll have experience and strategies you can only dream of. The process takes time, and if you’re a bit of a hoarder, then it’ll stray into potentially challenging emotional and psychological areas. But remember, you’ll have a professional to guide you.
Need Help With Junk Removal in the Bay Area, CA? We Can Help.
Professional organizers often work hand in hand with junk disposal companies to facilitate their service. Nixxit’s junk removal services combine with professional organizers every day, restoring order to chaos and clearing residential and commercial properties for all sorts of clients.
Professional organizers rely on us for a speedy and efficient service with our commitment to sustainability. We take time and care to donate and recycle as much as possible with a receipted donation service available. Nixxit offers partial and complete building clearance for homes and businesses. Our process is simple and efficient – we are the essential partner to many professional organizers.
Get in touch by selecting your location below and giving us a call!
