Professional organizers help clients manage their physical spaces, such as closets, kitchens, or home offices. As part of their decluttering services, they often use an intake form to gather basic information about each client and their project.
The first step in getting organized is purging what is no longer needed or wanted. This can be a daunting task for some people.
Getting Organized
If you’re overwhelmed by clutter, it can be difficult to know where to begin. A professional organizer can help you declutter and set up systems, from organizing closets to tackling a home office, that make it easier for you to keep your space organized long term.
Organizers can charge an hourly rate to help clients get their spaces in order, and may offer additional services, such as mail management, routine and recycling systems or storage solutions. Some organizers are independently owned, and others work for larger organizations with several employees.
Ms. Lowenheim says that people typically hire professional organizers when they reach a tipping point, such as being unable to find their keys or when they’re not meeting their personal and business goals. Other factors that might prompt a call for help include life changes like marriage, divorce or the birth of a child or starting a new job, such as a home-based business. Getting organized can be a lengthy process, and you may need to work with your professional organizer more than once.
Decluttering
Whether it’s a messy closet or an entire home, decluttering is where most professional organizers excel. In addition to clearing out clutter, they also help clients develop sustainable storage and organizational systems. These can save time in the long run by streamlining daily tasks.
Decluttering can be a daunting task for homeowners. Organizers recommend starting with one room or space at a time and setting aside enough time to complete the project in manageable chunks. It’s also helpful to set a budget before hiring an organizer and have a clear understanding of their hourly rates.
Identifying your specific needs and goals will help narrow your search for an organizing expert. Are you looking for someone to manage a pile of mail or establish routines for everyday cleaning? Some organizers specialize in home staging, helping homes look their best before being put on the market. Others focus on office organization or technology management. These specialty areas are often more expensive.
Time Management
Time management involves determining what needs to be done first and then creating and sticking to a schedule. It’s also about overcoming common obstacles and avoiding bad habits, like multitasking.
Good time management skills can lead to greater productivity and a better work-life balance. This includes taking frequent breaks to avoid burnout and maintaining a regular working rhythm. It also means ensuring that there’s enough time for leisure activities and relaxation.
There are many ways to improve your time management skills, but it’s important to find a method that works for you. Popular strategies include using a calendar app, setting SMART goals and blocking out specific time slots for tasks. Another option is the Pomodoro technique, which encourages people to work for short, focused periods of time followed by short breaks. You can also use apps that help you track your progress and delegate responsibilities. This will help you get more out of your day and achieve your goals.
Relationships
Professional organizers often work with their clients to help them establish consistent daily routines and habits that support their goals and priorities. They also provide ongoing support and accountability through regular check-ins, progress assessments and troubleshooting sessions.
Clutter is a stressor for most people, and it can have a detrimental effect on physical and mental health. By reducing clutter and organizing spaces, professional organizers can help decrease the stress levels of their clients and improve their overall quality of life.
When choosing a Professional Organizer, it is important to find someone who is a good listener and is empathetic. It’s also helpful to find a person who is creative, trustworthy and patient. Some Professional Organizers may work alone or with a small team while others may be part of larger home organizational companies. Regardless of the type of company, it’s important to choose an organizer who is qualified for your specific needs and can work with your budget.