Questions to Ask The Organizer
Hiring a professional organizer is similar to hiring any service consultant,
you will want to speak to several professional organizers before choosing one
to work with. If your preference is to meet the organizer in person before making
your selection, be aware that some offer free consultations, while others charge
for them and credit it back to you if they are hired.
In doing your research to find the organizer who fits your needs, you may want to ask several or all of the following questions and be sure to consider the other thoughts when choosing the organizer detailed below:
- What services do you provide and what are your areas of specialization?
Ask the organizer if he/she specializes in any particular area of organizing
(technology, chronic disorganization, closets, etc.). Make sure they specialize
or have experience in the area you need help with.
- How long have you been a professional organizer? You probably want to work
with someone with experience, so ask how long they have been in business and
if they are a Certified Professional Organizer®. If possible try and hire
someone with CPO® certification because it means they have met specific standards
and have demonstrated through examination and client interaction that they
have the knowledge and expertise required for certification.
- What is your background and training?
- What results can I expect from your service?
- How is progress evaluated?
- How long is a typical work session?
- Who will I be working with? Will be working with you or and employee
or subcontractor?
- Is the work of your company guaranteed?
- Do you have references?
- Can I call your references?
- How much do you charge?
- How do you charge for your services? Is there a fee for the initial consultation?
Do they have an hourly rate, or will they charge a fixed fee per project?
- Are you member of a professional association, such as NAPO? While membership does not
guarantee the quality of the professional organizer’s work, it does demonstrate
their commitment to continuing education and that they are bound by a specific
industry code of ethics.
- Are you insured and bonded?
- Is there a contract to sign outlining the specific work to be done?
- Is there a minimum number of hours or am I obligated by a contract?
- What are your payment policies?
- What is your cancellation policy?
- Every organizer works differently, so ask them how they would approach
your unique situation and what the process entails.
- Ask for a description of a typical organizing project and client. Does
the description sound like your situation and what you need?
- Finally, if you’ve tried getting organized before, ask why they think their
service will be a better fit for your circumstance.
- What do you like about working as a professional organizer?
Other Thoughts to Consider When Choosing the Organizer
- Visit their website to get further details
- Some organizers may also ask permission to take "before" and "after" photos
for their portfolio. Be sure to assert your own needs and preferences.
- Ask what supplies you'll need to have on hand, such as bins and trash bags
for sorting
- Make sure that both yourself and the organizer has a clear understanding
of the scope of the project, determine time frames and agree on how progress
will be evaluated
- Get a contract that clearly states your agreement and payment details in
writing.
Inquire to find a professional organizer
in your area.
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