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ASK THE TRAINER

Question: When we determine a project is going to be too much for us for whatever reason and we refer the client to another organizer, how do we handle a situation when the other organizer charges a lot more per hour / job? Should we try to refer our client to someone who charges the approximate same as us? Should we alert the organizer of what we mentioned to the client prior to referring the client? This could be awkward for all parties involved.

Answer: Referrals can be tricky. I refer to Professional Organizers I know and I have worked with, so I know I’m giving a good referral. Turns, out they typically have the same fee structure as I do, or very close. When in doubt, refer your potential client/client to the NAPO website or your local NAPO chapter website and they can choose based on specialty, location, fee, experience, or what is most important to them. It is always a good idea to talk with the organizer before you give a direct referral to make sure they want the client and are available.
Do you have a question, post it to me as a comment.

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