Is becoming a professional organizer right for me?

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Overview
What do professional organizers do?
Career Satisfaction
Are professional organizers happy with their careers?
Personality
What are professional organizers like?

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How to become a Professional Organizer

Becoming a professional organizer involves a combination of education, experience, and skill development. Here are the steps you can take to become a professional organizer:

  • Obtain a degree or certification: While there is no formal education requirement to become a professional organizer, many successful organizers hold degrees in related fields such as psychology, business, or interior design. You can also obtain certification through organizations such as the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) or the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD).
  • Gain experience: Start by organizing your own space or the spaces of friends and family members. This will give you hands-on experience and allow you to build your portfolio. You can also volunteer to organize community events or spaces to gain experience and exposure.
  • Build a network: Attend industry events and conferences, join professional organizations such as NAPO or ICD, and network with other organizers and professionals in related fields.
  • Develop your skills: In addition to organizational skills, a professional organizer should have strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills. You should also be familiar with current organizing trends, tools, and technology.
  • Market your services: Once you have gained experience and developed your skills, it's time to start marketing your services. Build a website, create a social media presence, and network with potential clients and other professionals in your area.
  • Set your rates: Determine what you will charge for your services based on your experience, skills, and the going rates in your area.
  • Maintain professional standards: Follow ethical guidelines set forth by professional organizations, maintain confidentiality, and provide high-quality service to your clients.

Certifications
Certification is not always required to work as a professional organizer, but it can help demonstrate your expertise and professionalism to potential clients. There are several certifications available, including:

  • Certified Professional Organizer (CPO) - This certification is offered by the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers (BCPO). To become a CPO, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements, including completing a minimum number of paid organizing hours and passing a comprehensive exam.
  • Certified Virtual Professional Organizer (CVPO) - This certification is offered by the same organization as the CPO, but it specifically focuses on virtual organizing services. To become a CVPO, candidates must meet the same eligibility requirements as the CPO and pass a separate exam.
  • Certified KonMari Consultant - This certification is offered by KonMari Media, Inc., the company founded by Marie Kondo. To become a certified KonMari Consultant, candidates must complete a training program that teaches the KonMari Method of organizing and pass an exam.
  • NAPO Specialist Certificates - The National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) offers several specialist certificates in specific areas of organizing, such as residential organizing, workplace productivity, and team productivity.
  • ICD Certificates - The Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD) offers several certificates in areas such as chronic disorganization, ADHD, and hoarding.

Associations
Joining a professional association can provide professional organizers with access to valuable resources and opportunities to connect with other organizers in the field.

  • National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) - NAPO is a professional association for organizers and productivity professionals. They offer networking opportunities, educational resources, and certification programs.
  • Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD) - The ICD is an international association for professionals who work with individuals with chronic disorganization, ADHD, and hoarding disorder. They offer training programs, educational resources, and networking opportunities.
  • National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD) - The NSGCD is a non-profit organization that provides education, resources, and support for professionals working with clients who have chronic disorganization issues.