Consultation

The initial consultation with a new organizing client is a crucial step that typically lasts around an hour. During this time, I assess the area in question, establish objectives with the client, and begin to understand their thought process to devise a tailored strategy. Each client is unique, with their own personality and their own organizing dilemma but there are a lot of similarities as well, such as apprehension about inviting someone into their personal space, budgetary and time constraints, and the daunting task of sorting through accumulated belongings, all accompanied by a mix of emotions from embarrassment to relief.

Tips to maximize our first session:

Please refrain from tidying up before our meeting. It's important for me to see the natural state of your space to avoid future complications.
There's no need for embarrassment; I'm here to help, and I've encountered all sorts of situations before.
Openness is key. Share your concerns, fears, and aspirations with me so that I can provide the most effective assistance.
Have some idea about your time frame and budget. I always do my best to work with you, and we can always adjust as we go, but we need to discuss this up front. Most organizers love to get a project done quickly and efficiently, but if you want to move more slowly – that’s ok. I just need to know. And if you are on a tight budget – that’s ok too – we’ll do what we can with what we have. You’d be amazed at what having a professional working with you can help you accomplish.
Trust is essential. If you feel that we're not the right fit, it's perfectly okay to express that. My goal is for you to be comfortable and confident in our collaboration, and if necessary, I can recommend someone who might suit your needs better.

First Session

Questions I may ask in an initial session. This will give you a glimpse of what we might discuss, so you can consider your answers in advance:

What systems do you have that are working well for you?
What systems do you have that are NOT working well for you?
Where are your ‘trouble spots’? Those areas that continually cause issues for you.
Tell me your daily routines and the general flow of your day.
Is there anyone whose opinion might influence your decision to organize?
Do you have any special needs I need to be aware of such as ADD, Learning Disability such as dyslexia, physical limitations, etc. If so, are you using any sort of device or system designed to assist you?

Depending on our focus, I might also delve into:

What sort of time management or calendar system do you currently use?
Do you prefer to have things put away or out where you can see them?
The items you need to access regularly versus those you seldom use.
What do you currently do with your papers?
Are you able to keep up with your bills, appointments and commitments?
How important is your computer to you and is it backed up and files easily accessed?
Do you have a storage unit or another place where you keep your stuff?
Do you have a preference for where we dispose of items we’ve determined can be let go? Including favored charities or consignment options.

When preparing for a session with a Professional Organizer, please consider:

If you have anything that you would be embarrassed for me to see… please put them in an inaccessible location. I’m not talking about paper clutter stuffed in a drawer, I’m talking about personal items that I really don’t need to see or touch if you get my drift.

Ensure that any hazardous items, including weapons or pets, are safely contained and out of sight.
Please keep in mind that we (most of us anyway) are not psychologists, therapists or medical professionals. We are really good at what we do but are not a substitute. We are generally very good listeners and consider that part of our job. But our goal is to help you achieve your goals so the listening and the doing must be balanced to get the job done.
Every client has unique needs, though there are similarities. The questions I will ask will depend on what we are trying to accomplish and will be focused on that. But the more I get to know you and how you think, the more efficient and effective I can be. So be honest, be open, and don’t forget to show me your hidden stash of clutter that I know you have buried away somewhere!

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during the session?

The professional organizer acts as a coach, working alongside you the entire time. First, we’ll look at the space that needs help and then discuss what you like and don’t like about the space. We’ll assess your space, challenges, ideas, and more! Next, we’ll create a strategy to create a useful and organized space. Then, we dig right in!

My whole house needs organizing. where do we start?

Each client is unique; this might depend on where you feel the most stress, the area that looks the worst, or the area that is most critical to your family or office functioning. For example, while the kids’ playroom might look the worst, the kitchen might need to come first if it is the epicenter of your family; if you eat, talk, pay bills, sort mail, and do schoolwork in the kitchen, it’s a room that needs to be functional immediately!

For those who can’t fit a car in the garage due to all that clutter, we might start there. If your bedroom leaves you feeling stressed rather than rested, this may be the place to dig in. I will help you determine where to start if you are unsure.

How many hours will it take to organize?

It depends on the size of the room, its current state, number of organizers involved, and your motivation level. Generally, in three hours we can complete a small space such as a closet, laundry room, or entryway. Larger or more complex areas, like home offices, kitchens, basements, or heavily cluttered areas, can take several days to weeks, depending on the size of the project.

Some clients simply need someone to help them get started, and then finish the jobs themselves. Others prefer to work with the organizer from start to finish. Each client’s needs are unique.

What if I feel embarrassed about my mess?

Don’t feel bad! Professional organizers don’t judge — we’re here to help you! All services provided are confidential. We also abide by the Professional Organizers Collective Code of Ethics. This Code of Ethics is a set of principles to provide guidelines for our professional conduct with our clients, colleagues, and community. As a member of the Professional Organizers Collective, I pledge to exercise judgment, self-restraint, and conscience in my conduct to establish and maintain public confidence in the integrity of The Collective and to preserve and encourage fair and equitable practices among all who are engaged in the profession of organizing.

How are the services billed?

I accept cash, check, and Venmo payments. Organizing sessions generally range from 3-5 hour increments and most clients pay at the end of each session. Some clients accumulate hours and pay once per week. Terms may be negotiated at the time of the consultation.

Do you charge by the job or by the hour?
I charge an hourly rate. Upon completion of each session, I leave a “to do” list with the client so they can continue to work on the project between sessions. This keeps the cost for clients to a minimum.

What areas do you serve?

I offer hands-on organizing services in Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, Tiffin, and surrounding areas. If you live outside these cities, please call to discuss. We may travel to your area or may be able to refer you to an organizer in your area.

How do I get started?

If you have other questions that haven’t been answered in this “frequently asked questions” section, or you’d like to set up an organizing session, please e-mail me by clicking here.