Professional Organizer Training Institute

New Venue and Updated Curriculum for 2012

2011-10-26T11:04:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited to announce we have a new venue for our seminars starting in 2012! It is grand and the Container Store is a mere two blocks away.

We are also updating our curriculum and integrating the Container Store in it. Plus fabulous goodies for you.

Mention this blog post by January 31, 2012 when you register with payment for a seminar and receive a $50 Container Store gift card upon completion of your seminar training.

Watch our web site for complete details soon.

NEW Training Program

2011-10-05T18:43:00.000-07:00

I'm very pleased to offer you our new 1 on 1 Personalized Training Program. Perhaps you are just starting or thinking about starting your Professional Organizer business. You have lots of questions or maybe you are not sure you are doing things quite right and need some guidance from an experienced mentor. You will be able to customize your own training program with this option.

Purchase a 60 minute one-on-one phone session with a Certified Professional Organizer® and NAPO Golden Circle member that will help you fast-track the introductory phase of setting up an organizing business effectively.

At a minimum you will

• Receive an Action Plan to effectively launch your business
• Learn options for setting your fees
• Become knowledgeable about industry certification
• Discover the key to successfully marketing your business
• Gain valuable industry resources
• Have answers to all of your questions that are asked during the session

All for only $89! Register and within 24 hours you will receive an email to arrange your one hour phone training session with Anne Blumer, CPO®.

A humorous song about clutter--enjoy!

2011-09-22T07:51:00.000-07:00

How to Become a Professional Organizer

2011-09-19T20:16:00.000-07:00

Watch our video on How to Become a Professional Organizer

From Movies

NAPO 2011 Conference - Taking Your Business to the Next Level

2011-04-23T13:03:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I spent five days in not so sunny San Diego for the annual NAPO conference. I thought I would share a few of my experiences with you in case you weren't able to attend...

I love, love, love attending conference. I love getting away for a week and totally immersing myself in the world of organizing with my colleagues, friends and participants of my training program. I leave energized and with a list of ideas to implement in my training program and my work with clients. This year was no different, except it was my first time as an exhibitor at the Expo. Instead of being a kid in my candy store, I was part of the candy store and that was very different.

It was exciting to be an exhibitor and also exhausting. I met so many people who had purchased my book Get Rich Organizing, attended a seminar or trained with my self-study program who shared with me how much I have helped them with the launch and success of their business. Their words were so affirming for me that what I do matters. I know I love to teach new Professional Organizers and it was heartwarming to know how much others learn from me.

On the flip side, standing for 12 hours three days in a row did not make my feet happy and I didn't have much time to interact with the other exhibitors, attend as many educational sessions or imbibe in happy hour with my fun roomies, Danielle Liu and Megan Spears.

I would like to share the exhibitors I did meet because they have fabulous products, educational courses, books or an opportunity for you to be an affiliate of their program who are ready to take your business to the next level.

Meet Megan McGlynn and Kathleen Cowley with KC Streamline Concepts: If you are tired of having to piece together a filing box system for each of your clients and spending an exorbitant amount of money on the various components then you will love the Alpha-Omega Organizer™! You can help your clients de-clutter their work and living spaces, reduce stress, and optimize their productivity with this portable, turnkey organizing system. It's completely customizable to fit their office or home decor, and even better - it's affordable! They offer their AOO Affiliate Sales Program to professional organizers and you will receive a 15% discount on all orders.

Meet Paris Love of Organize With Love who offers Professional Organizers Breakthrough Boot Camp - Insider Secrets to a Thriving Professional Organizing Business training course. Paris says, "after you have trained with Anne, come work with me to get to the next level of you business".

Denslow Brown, The Diva of Organizing! More importantly of the Coach Approach For Organizers. Do you want to improve your communication with your clients? Or, perhaps you want to add coaching to your repertoire of organizing services. Denslow will help you achieve those goals. Stay tuned, Denslow and I are talking about how we can collaborate to provide you with foundational coaching skills.

Casey Moore's new book Stop Organizing, Start Producing clearly explains how you can increase productivity and quality of life. Your bookshelf is not complete without Casey's book.

Elizabeth Hagen: If you are ready to stand out and accelerate your success as a woman entrepreneur, then Elizabeth is the person who will take you there with her business coaching services. Elizabeth is one of those rare authentic people you will be fortunate to meet.

Donna Smallin of Send Out Cards which is an easy way to keep in touch with clients throughout the year. Donna is also the author of several organizing books that would be excellent additions to your reference library.

Extraordinary Organizing: If you already have an organizing business, this is the perfect way to build your consulting business. People who attend shows often want personal service and you will be the one they want to hire!

This is just a sampling of the conference experience. The educational sessions are invaluable. The few I attended I walked away with inspiration and ideas I had not thought of. If you have never been, you are missing out. Make a plan now to invest in yourself and your business by attending the NAPO 2012 conference in Baltimore, Maryland March 21-24!

Do you have questions about becoming a Professional Organizer? Here are my top FAQs for 2010.

2010-12-22T14:37:00.001-08:00

I receive many inquiries about our Professional Organizer training and education programs and questions about how to get started in the field of Professional Organizing. Maybe you have questions too. If you do, than you might be interested in reading my top frequently asked questions and answers for 2010:

Hi Anne, I wanted to introduce myself - my present circumstances - and last but not least honor the gift I was born with; a skill that just came so naturally that I didn't see the value in it or myself (obviously). Nothing like a divorce - to motivate one to grow up, change, accept myself and transition gracefully into the next chapter. I am wondering whether or not I should take your class in person? Get your book? Write a business plan before your book? and...frankly...in this economic climate, is business good or even happening for professional organizers? Any suggestions you have for short term plans, (i.e., places to work and 'learn the business' while generating income and writing a biz plan) will be appreciated. Whatever wisdom you can impart will be appreciated.Sincerely, Sheila Ahh, you sound like you are in a life transition. What a great place to be! To be honest, if I had the choice when I started, I would have attended a seminar—especially one like we offer through the Professional Organizer Training Institute with the client practicum component. It really depends on the type of learner you are. Are you auditory?—then my self-study program. Are you visual?—then my book. Are you kinesthetic?—then my seminar will take you through creating your business plan, your marketing message, a process for working with client, and so much more. Whatever learner you are—I have the option. Let me know how I can help you.

Hi Anne,
I would like to inquire what is the cost of the self study program? Is there a certificate of completion? How many hours is the course (even though it is self study)? Thank you, Darci Hello Darci, Thank you for your interest in our training programs for Professional Organizers. The cost for our training programs is very affordable. I recently spoke with someone on the phone and when I told her it is $300 for all three units she couldn't believe it. She said all of NAPO's classes combined total over $3,000, they are tele-classes and you can't repeat the class, and it would take her years to complete all of them due to their schedule. I provide my participants a “Certified by” (27 hours—length of 3-day seminar) the Professional Organizer Training Institute™ certificate upon completion of the Seminar Program. I provide my participants a Certificate of Training (7 hours—length of videos for Units I and II and 3 hours length of Unit IV) by the Professional Organizer Training Institute™ upon completion of the Self-Study Programs.

I hope you can help me. I live in Sydney, Australia and I have found your training course on the net. In 2010 I would like to train to become a Professional Organiser and I have looked through your course and I am interested in completing it. However, I have a few questions to ask before I can register.
1. If I complete the self study course which includes the manual, is it a more comprehensive version of the Get Rich book for sale? Do I download the manual? The self-study program is more comprehensive than the book, plus you have the online videos. The materials are sent to you via e-mail once your payment is approved.
2. Are the self study lessons through email or sent in the post? E-mail.
3. Are there assignments to be submitted and what does a typical assignment involve? Do I complete the assignments from the information in the manual? No assignments; suggested actions.
4. The customised forms that are included in the course, can they be adapted for my business eg are electronic copies? Yes
5. The one hour phone call at the end of the course, does that include calling me in Australia? You call me :) or we can Skype.
6. How do I get the audio/visual recordings? on DVD (post) or download for my resource or stream it from the web? Stream it from the web with logon access.
7. How do I find out how much I need to pay in Australian dollars? What is your preferred method? Convert US Dollars to Australian dollars and payment is made via PayPal.
Thanks for your time. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Thanks Emma Ray

Hi Anne,I would like to know if you have a Seminar in Boston or somewhere close to here??Thank you Monica Hello Monica, Thank you for your interest in our training program. Due to the client practicum we only offer the seminar in our local area where we have access to clients we know will be a good match with our client practicum. I hope you will consider making the trip to Oregon for this invaluable and irreplaceable training experience.

Hi Anne,I am interested in taking your home study course, but want to know what else will be required after that to actually obtain a certification. Hi Charlotte, Thank you for contacting me. These are the eligibility requirements to become a Certified Professional Organizer by the Board of Certified Professional Organizers. I hope that helps to answer your question.

Hi Anne, How do I get to be a CPO? Is the only way to go to the 3 days seminar? If I took all 5 training segments would that get me certified? Hi Carrie, Thank you for contacting me about how to become a Certified Professional Organizer® (CPO®).Are you familiar with the Board of Certified Professional Organizers? They are who “certify” Professional Organizers as a CPO®. Read their requirements page on their Web site for information about what you will need to achieve before certifying. I provide my participants a “Certified by” the Professional Organizer Training Institute ™certificate upon completion of the Seminar Program. I provide my participants a Certificate of Training by the Professional Organizer Training Institute™ upon completion of our Self-Study Program. A CEU for a Board of Certified Professional Organizers application must be attained through “live” or “recorded” training format so both our Seminar and Self-Study Program also qualifies for Board Certification.

Hello my name is Dawn and I was wondering if you had any kind of grants or loans to take the classes... Hello Dawn, Thank you for your inquiry. Because we are small business and want to keep our costs the lowest the industry offers, we do not offer grants or loans for our classes. If you are serious about pursuing this profession and starting your own business, you might apply for a small business loan with your bank to cover training/education expenses, marketing, equipment, etc. that you will need to be successful.

Hi Anne, I am interested in starting a career in the field of professional organizing. I have always enjoyed organizing and take great pride in it. Looking at the BCPO, it seems I need actual collage/class credit in order to do this. Is this what this institute offers? What else can you tell me about this school in order for me to better understand what I require to become a professional organizer? Hello Stephanie, Our training programs do provide CEU’s that may be eligible for BCPO CEU’s. For more information on what are eligible BCPO CEU’s visit their web site on this topic http://www.certifiedprofessionalorganizers.org/faq.php#CEU. There are no specific requirements to become a Professional Organizer. There are specific requirements to become a Certified Professional Organizer and they are explained on the BCPO web site here http://www.certifiedprofessionalorganizers.org/eligibility-requirements.php and here http://www.certifiedprofessionalorganizers.org/faq.php#eligibilityReg.

Hello Anne, My name is Mark and I have read with rapt interest, the information pertinent to organizing. I have had personal experience with clearing out my parents' home after they passed away, and they had lots of stuff!! I have a couple of questions. Are most Certified Professional Organizers women? How long does it typically take to get a business off the ground after taking your classes in Portland, Oregon?I feel that being male may be in my favor but, I don't know. I thoroughly enjoyed cleaning my home after my father passed away and was amazed at how big the apartment really was!! Any information you can provide will be greatly appreciated. Hello Mark, Thank you for contacting me regarding your Professional Organizer career. To answer your questions: Are most Certified Professional Organizers women? Yes, they are. However the male population is growing. There was a gentleman in my training seminar this week. How long does it typically take to get a business off the ground after taking your classes in Portland, Oregon? That depends a lot on you. There are many other steps to complete setting up your business that I teach on day one of the seminar, but you can get it off the ground in one day by registering your business with your state online, obtaining your federal tax id (again online), and opening a business checking account (also can be done online with many banks).

Hello Anne,I work full time but want to change careers. I am very interested in professional organizing. With a 80/wk work schedule and family...what is the best way to go? Hi Tammy, I highly recommend training. Not because I am a trainer, but because I wish I had the opportunity when I started my business. It took me months to get my business up and generating clients, because I wasn’t sure of the steps to take. Now I do know what it takes to launch and grow a professional organizer business and that is what I teach, along with techniques and skills for working with a variety of client types. That said, I think the best way to go is complete my self-study training program or attend a seminar.

Hello, I have recently retired from many years as a Flight Attendant and was look for a second career. I would like your direction in what is needed to become a professional residential organizer. Where do I start. I will look forward to your input. Karen Hello Karen, Thank you for contacting me. Friends kept telling me this is the right career for me, and they were right! I left corporate America after 20+ years, I’ve been a Professional Organizer for almost eight years and I absolutely love it. It is a great “second career”. What I love more is training and educating new Professional Organizers so they can have a successful business too. There are no specific qualifications for our training programs or to become a professional organizer (at this time). If you answer yes to all of these questions, you are ready to learn more about becoming a professional organizer and I would love to assist you with your training and education:
1.Do you have a sense of humor?
2.Are you non-judgmental?
3.Do you like to teach others?
4.Are you a good listener?
5.Can you visually measure space and approximate how furniture and items will fit?
6.Does the idea of cleaning out your closet excite you?
7.Does the idea of cleaning out someone else’s closet excite you?
8.Have you ever organized someone else’s stuff?
9.Do you get excited when you see a messy or disorganized space?
10.If someone doesn’t agree with your approach to organizing are you okay with that?
11.Are you self disciplined, self-motivated and a self-starter?
12.Are you good at managing finances?
13.Are you comfortable selling yourself?
14.Are you comfortable working with all types of personalities? If not, which ones are you not comfortable with?
15.Are you comfortable meeting people for the first time?

If you have questions about becoming a Professional Organizer, please post them here and I will gladly answer them.

Is a Professional Organizer Career in Your Future?

2010-12-13T15:49:00.000-08:00

Before becoming a Certified Professional Organizer, my friends kept telling me this is the right career for me, and they were right! I’ve been a Professional Organizer for almost eight years and certified for almost four years. I absolutely love this career. What I love more is training and educating new Professional Organizers so they can have a successful business too.

There are no specific qualifications for our training programs. To help you decide if you are ready, answer these questions:

1. Do you have a sense of humor?
2. Are you non-judgmental?
3. Do you like to teach others?
4. Are you a good listener?
5. Can you visually measure space and approximate how furniture and items will fit?
6. Does the idea of cleaning out your closet excite you?
7. Does the idea of cleaning out someone else’s closet excite you?
8. Have you ever organized someone else’s stuff?
9. Do you get excited when you see a messy or disorganized space?
10. If someone doesn’t agree with your approach to organizing are you okay with that?
11. Are you self disciplined, self-motivated and a self-starter?
12. Are you good at managing finances?
13. Are you comfortable selling yourself?
14. Are you comfortable working with all types of personalities? If not, which ones are you not comfortable with?
15. Are you comfortable meeting people for the first time?

If you answer yes to all of these questions then you are ready to learn more about becoming a Professional Organizer and I would love to assist you with your training and education with our self-study programs or seminars.

So Excited to Receive this News...

2010-11-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

"CONGRATULATIONS! YOU ARE A FINALIST!

On behalf of the Los Angeles chapter of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO-LA), we are very pleased to inform you that you are an official finalist for the upcoming 2011 Los Angeles Organizing Awards!

Nominations made by members of the professional organizing industry and the public earlier this year recognized you and/or your company as being one of the best in your field (Most Valuable Educational Resource).

Please see the complete list of finalists in all twenty-four categories and vote now for the winners."

I'm the underdog and up against some heavy-weight competition (large organizations such as NAPO and NSGCD). Your vote for me, Professional Organizer Training Institute, under the category MOST VALUABLE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE will make all the difference.

Thank you,
Anne

Checkout Five New Professional Organizers

2010-11-02T10:14:00.001-07:00

Wrapped up our 2010 training on September 29th by launching five new professional organizers. Meet from left Linda, Denise, Gordon, Susan, Sandy.

View their exciting and awesome client practicum organizing project here.

I'm looking forward to launching more professional organizers in 2011. I hope you will join me for one of our seminars or self-study programs.

Are you thinking about becoming a Professional Organizer?

2010-08-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

If you have been thinking about entering the field of Professional Organizing but have no idea how to get started or are not sure if you are doing what you need to be doing to be successful, it’s time for you to get serious and educate yourself.

Begin by reading my book Get Rich Organizing to verify this is the right profession for you. You might be able to organize anything, but can you organize someone else? You may have worked for a business, but can you manage your own? These are just a few of the questions that I will review with you.

Next get in-depth training, education, resources, forms and other essential materials to launch, manage and grow your business by enrolling in our Self Study program.

For the richest learning experience and to achieve your potential in the shortest period of time, attend our live 3-day seminar where you will work hands-on with a real client. Our next seminar is September 27-29, 2010 and it is already rapidly filling up.

I’m looking forward to working with you to become a Professional Organizer and show you the way to a rewarding career.

Expect success!

NAPO Conference - Video

2010-04-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

I had a fabulous time at the NAPO conference in Columbus, Ohio. It was fun to take my flip camera and capture some events and highlights.

Here's a video of Gabriel Fishman of Gabriel Organizes demonstrating what to include in your travel backpack for conference using the Eagle Creek Universal Backpack. I'm ordering mine now for future conference travels.

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Learn How to Organize an Entire Home

2010-03-15T07:24:00.000-07:00

Professional Organizer Training™ program provides you with a 5 part series on Room-by-Room Residential Organizing.

This series will educate you on the basics of organizing each room of a home including:
*How to apply my 5 Steps to Organizing® process
*Keep-let go criteria to help your clients through difficult decisions
*6 challenging stumbling blocks to letting go and how to overcome them
*For each room the typical problems (habits) that cause disorganization, how to create zones, product solutions from budget to extreme, new organizing habits to establish, estimated time for organizing, before/after visuals, and a basic maintenance plan to keep your clients organized.

Order now and earn 5 hours of CEU towards certification with our self study program. Only $75 now through March 31, 2010. That's only $15/CEU hour!

March Madness

2010-03-14T18:48:00.000-07:00

Launch your Professional Organizer business or learn more about how to become a Professional Organizer now at a very affordable price.

Through March 31, 2010 our Self Study Program is half price!! That's right, 50% off the regular price. Act now and save $$$$.

Units I, II, and IV only $200
Units I and II only $125
Unit IV only $75

What are you waiting for? Get started now!

Big Changes for Professional Organizer Certification CEU Eligibility

2010-03-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

The Board of Certified Professional Organizers (BCPO) announced this week that Continuing Education Unit (CEU) eligibility requirements have been revised to include some online and recorded courses. The revised CEU eligibility requirements are as follows:
1. Classes must be at least 60 minutes long.
2. Classes must provide skills and knowledge that allow you to better serve your clients.
3. Classes must be live, web-based, or recorded.
4. For initial certification, at least 70% of the CEUs claimed as substitute hours must be for live classes; up to 30% may be for web-based or recorded classes.
5. For re-certification, of the 45 required CEUs, at least 30 must be for live classes; up to 15 may be for web-based or recorded classes.

We offer online and recorded courses that are eligible for certification CEU's that you can attend by online live Webinar or recorded Self-Study Program options. Unit I is primarily focused on forming your business. Unit II, Unit IV and our new GO System training provide you with skills and knowledge that allow you to better serve your clients.

All of our courses are the most comprehensive and at a very lowest cost comparable to other programs in the market. And, remember professional development is a deductible business expense.

Don't wait until the last minute to realize you don't have the CEU's you need to certify or recertify. Continue your education throughout the course of your profession to stay on top of the latest industry information and knowledge.

Register and join me for your continuing education and start earning your CEU's toward certification or recertification now.

What people are saying about our GO System Training

2010-02-20T16:06:00.001-08:00

Here's what people are saying about our GO System training:

I thoroughly enjoyed the training and felt that Anne was clear and concise with the information.

I am a new organizer and really appreciated the depth and scope of information presented in the webinar. Having an understanding of underlying issues with clients is essential in providing excellent service. Signe Hill

I highly recommend the Go System as a set of tools to work with in order to become more productive, have more clarity and work more efficiently.

The Go System course was both enlightening and educational. It is unlike any other organizing course I have taken. Knowing why things instead of just knowing that they happen will make me both a better Professional Organizer and a better business owner. I highly recommend this course to anyone that would like some specific actions to take to improve their productivity. Cindy Vanhoff Professional Organizer Reclaimed Spaces, LLC Spokane, Washington

I really liked the multi-tasking exercise! It was a real eye opener.

I set up the file system and did the prioritizing. It felt FABULOUS! Thanks Anne!

I've been using the FOCUS method to get some major projects done.

Register for our next Webinar series starting March 5, 2010.

NAPO Oregon Presents: 2010 Pacific Northwest Organizing Expo

2010-01-28T09:14:00.001-08:00

This is a free event, so come join us! Stop by and see me at the Professional Organizer Training Institute booth. Great door prizes!

For more information visit their website .

NAPO Oregon Presents: 2010 Pacific Northwest Organizing Expo
January 30, 2010, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Montgomery Park, 2701 NW Vaughn Street, Portland Oregon

Thank you!

2009-12-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

Thank you to the over 125 people who participated in the Professional Organizer Training Institute™ training programs this past year. It was my extreme pleasure to inspire, educate, and train you to launch your own Professional Organizing business.

If you are planning to launch your business in 2010 we have upcoming training opportunities to get you started on a successful and profitable business:

Webinar Units I, II, and IV: January 12-March 4, 2010; 5:00-6:00 p.m. Pacific Time; Tuesdays/Thursdays. Registration deadline is December 29, 2009.

Seminar February 8-10, 2010 early bird registration deadline is January 18, 2010. This seminar is already half full.

To say informed about future training opportunities and the organizing industry you are invited to become a fan of the Professional Organizer Training Institute™ Facebook page.

Last, but not least, I am offering FREE shipping on my book Get Rich Organizing through December 24, 2009. After you submit your order, send me an e-mail (anne@solutionsforyou.com) and mention this offer and I will immediately refund the shipping charges.

Again, thank you for your participation and interest in the Professional Organizer Training Institute™.

Ask the Organizer Panel

2009-11-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Last month I was invited to be on the NAPO Oregon Golden Circle Member panel at our monthly meeting. I thought it might be insightful to those who are interested in becoming a professional organizer and to those already in the business to read the questions they asked me and my responses:

How has your business evolved since you first started as a professional organizer? (Include when you started your business.)
I officially started my business SolutionsForYou, Inc. in January 2003 and joined NAPO and NAPO Oregon the same month. I was asked to be the NAPO Oregon board secretary in April 2003 and remained on the board until May 2009—acting as Secretary, Vice President/Director of Membership, President, and Immediate Past President.

I loved all aspects of launching a business. After six months of business launching activities, my husband—who was working from home at the time, turned to me kicked the chair that I was sitting and said, “Don’t you think it’s time to find a client?” To which I replied, “Oh right, a client.”

I worked with almost any client who came along and didn’t have a specific niche. I quickly learned I don’t like organizing garages or basements because they seem to be the purgatory of stuff. I also learned quickly that I love working with clients and their paper.

From there I started mentoring new professional organizers helping them to start their business and work with clients that lead to my professional organizer training seminar program, webinar program, self-study program, and most recently writing and publishing my book.

How do you set expectations with new clients?
Simply by asking them what they expect from me and clearly identifying their goals and vision. Before we start we identify clear criteria for what will be kept and what the client is willing to let go of. I’m clear with my clients that change needs to happen internally with them for there to be a complete transformation.

What has been your biggest surprise or learning as a professional organizer?
My biggest surprise has been that I am teaching others how to launch and manage their own professional organizer business. That I would be training my competition. And, that I wrote book—that was a huge surprise!

What is your best piece of advice for a new organizer? What do you wish you had known when you started your business?
Training and education; not only about how to work with clients but how to run a business. I wish I had known anything about CD, ADD, and people who hoard before I met them!

What was your biggest mistake as an organizer and what did you learn from it?
Installing (i.e. drilling) shelving. I learned to identify my limitations and have resources available who are better skilled at doing things I’m not trained or skilled at.

What are the pros and cons of choosing a specialty area? How did you choose yours? How long did it take you to determine your specialty?
Pros: You are working with the clients who make your heart sing. You get really good at what the service and expertise you provide your clients. You can probably command a higher rate if you are the “expert”.
Cons: You might limit your income.
I chose mine based on it is what I truly love to do.
A couple of years

What do you recommend about carrying liability insurance?
Well, since I was raised by an attorney I learned very early on you don’t take risks that can cause a law suit, so I recommend that you do carry liability insurance. If you have any question about whether or not you should watch the video on NAPO’s website.

What has been your biggest challenge and how have you handled or overcome it?
My biggest challenge is my perfectionism personality and I haven’t overcome it, I handle it with wine and cheese!

What marketing strategies have you found to be the most helpful? How long did it take for your marketing strategies to pay off?
My Web site is my #1 marketing strategy and it has paid off since it was launched. I obtain 90% of my clients through my Web site.
Networking is my #2 marketing strategy and it is slower to pay off, but it does.

Have you ever turned down a job? If so, what were the reasons?
Of course I have! Not a good match either personality or specialty.

What was the single most helpful book to you as an organizer?
Judith Kohlberg’s book What Every Professional Organizer Should Know about Chronic Disorganization.

What class if any has been the most helpful to you as an organizer?
The Coach Approach to Organizing with Denslow Brown.

How important is it to become a Certified Professional Organizer®?
From a business perspective, it was important for me because of my training program—I felt participants would think it is important to learn from someone who has been through the certification process.

From a personal perspective, it was important for me because becoming certified signifies my commitment to education, dedication, and professionalism for the professional organizer industry.

How did you pick your business model (sole proprietor, LLC, etc)?
My business is incorporated because my husband and I formed SolutionsForYou together for both his consulting business and my organizing business. It was tax advantageous for us to be incorporated.

What has been your most challenging job?
I spent most of one summer 6 hours a day 5 days a week working with a family to remove an enormous amount of clutter from a 6500 sq. ft. home. It was challenging because of the amount of clutter, the number of family members and their emotional attachments, and it was physically exhausting moving large garbage bags of stuff from the upstairs to the main floor and then out to the garage for pickup by Dough Nation.

What job has been the most fun for you?
Working with a family to set-up systems and I’m their in-home Organizer working with them 2x a month for 3 years now.

What struggles do you still face in your business?
Marketing my training program world-wide.

What has been the hardest organizing-related skill for you to develop?
Body doubling—it’s really hard for me to sit still.

What business-related skills has been the most difficult for you to develop?
Payroll, it rates right up there with tax preparation!

What still surprises you about your work as a professional organizer?
How many people are chronically disorganized.

What professional development resources are available?
My training programs
Denslow Brown’s A Coach Approach to Organizing
NAPO
NSGCD
NASSM
BCPO book list

How can your expertise help NAPO Oregon chapter members?
My expertise can help members learn how to launch, manage, and grow a profitable business.

What else would you like to know? Send me your questions.

So Thrilled...We've been nominated!!!

2009-10-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

I just learned the Professional Organizer Training Institute™ has been nominated as the Most Valuable Educational Resource for the 2010 NAPO LA Organizing Awards.

This is THE AWARD EVENT for the professional organizing industry!!! PLEASE VOTE for me--the Professional Organizer Training Institute™! Go to http://www.NAPOLA.org.

First feedback on my book...

2009-09-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

I received my first feedback on my book, Get Rich Organizing: The Professional Organizer Survival Guide to Launch, Manage, and Grow a Profitable Business.

Here's what Julia says...

Hi Anne,
"We originally connected on LinkedIn. I received an email from your website when Get Rich Organizing was released.

I LOVE the book! Last night, I wrote out answers for the questions in the first two chapters. The book is really helping me focus on specialization as an organizer and where I need to apply more focus as a business owner. I'll definitely write a review when I'm finished. And I know that I'll be constantly using it as a resource!"

Here's what Cindy says...
"Got my book! How exciting for you to have your name on the spine of a book. I love books! I am enjoying reading bits and pieces of it. I have been reading about the different clients you have come across. congratulations - and thank you for the note and the autograph.
Cindy"

Time to vote for the 2010 NAPO-LA Organizing Awards

2009-09-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

Vote For the Professional Organizer Training Institute by September 30th

From the Professional Organizer Training Institute™, Anne Blumer

It’s that time of year again--Time to vote for the 2010 NAPO-LA Organizing Awards. It's easy. Here's how:

Visit the NAPO LA Organizing Awards website
On the right side click on “Awards 2010 Nomination Form”
Enter your password or create a password.
Find the category for Most Valuable Educational Resource.
Enter Professional Organizer Training Institute™ Information:

Nominee: Professional Organizer Training Institute™
Contact/Position: Anne Blumer
Address: 7220 SW Burlingame Avenue, Portland,OR 97219
Phone: 503.246.0710
Email: anne@professionalorganizertraininginstitute.com
Website: www.professionalorganizertraininginstitute.com
Years in business: 6
Type of business/product/service: Service
Reason for nomination: Say what you wish!

Thank you so much for taking a few minutes to do this. I truly appreciate your vote and love training and educating Professional Organizers!!

The Professional Organizer Training Institute™ is the leading global provider of both business development and professional organizer client engagement training and education. We have trained and educated participants the world over with our highly successful and proven training and education program for Professional Organizer business owners.

My Book is Published!

2009-08-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Get Rich Organizing: The Professional Organizer Survival Guide to Launch, Manage, and Grow a Profitable Business

Order your signed copy now!

Listen to my book interview with Susan Creal
www.freeconferencecall.com
Login:
access code 220447
phone 6054754875
subscriber pin 401106

August Seminar

2009-08-13T10:02:00.001-07:00

I just completed a three-day training program and launched three new professional organizers. Meet (from left to right) Tonya, Sharon, and Tami.

I love, love, love to train new organizers!! See Sharon, Tonya and Tami in action at their client practicum.

If you are interested in becoming a Professional Organizer or know of someone who would be a great Professional Organizer we have another seminar in November. Or if you prefer distance learning we are starting our webinar series in September.

My book, Get Rich Organizing: The Professional Organizer Survival Guide to Launch, Manage, and Grow a Profitable Business is now available. Order your copy now!

Communicating Your Value

2009-07-06T08:20:00.000-07:00

If you have attended my Professional Organizer Training and Education Program webinar or seminar you know the underlying message I repeat over and over is the importance and impact of communicating your value to your client.

I came across this video of Don Hutson on the subject of selling your value. It reiterates what I say and more. Bottom line, if you clearly communicate your value, your client will pay your price.

Your client's perceived value of your service must be equal to or greater than your price. For example here is what a client of mine said after working with me,

"It’s amazing; my desk is no longer a catchall. Nobody touches this space except me now—before I was the only one who didn’t use this space. I can find any piece of paper I am looking for and I know where to file paper when I receive it. I am so appreciative of Anne, I can’t say that enough. She coached me through the entire process. I feel so much calmer now that I can make decisions and manage my paper. I am in control and can navigate our “command central” with ease and confidence. You, Anne, not only cleared the clutter from my home, you cleared the clutter in my head. I have ADD and this is a freedom I’ve never felt. Thanks a million for your help Anne, you have made me so happy and you are worth every penny and much more!"Angela Coel

Professional Organizer Business Insurance-Do You Need It?

2009-06-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

NAPO Presentation from todd v on Vimeo.

If you have been wondering whether or not you need to obtain liability insurance for your professional organizing business, this video will answer that question and why. It's a must see and hear for anyone engaged in the professional organizer business or considering it as a business.

Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations...What's the Difference?

2009-06-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

I came across the "Elephant's Walk" story [not sure where now] and I think it sums up the difference between advertising, marketing, public relations:

"If the circus is coming to town and you paint a sign saying “Circus coming to the Fairground Saturday,” that’s advertising.

If you put the sign on the back of an elephant and walk him into town, that’s promotion.

If the elephant walks through the mayor’s flowerbed, that’s publicity.

If you can get the mayor to laugh about it, that’s public relations.

And if you actually planned the elephant’s walk, that’s marketing."

Want to learn how to market your professional organizing business and more? Here's how.

Rich Brooks 10 Marketing Tips for Organizing Professionals

2009-05-19T13:23:00.000-07:00

Rich Brooks was a speaker at the NAPO 2009 conference. He shares his thoughts and marketing tips for organizing professionals:

I thought a lot about some of the unique challenges professional organizers face, and so here's my list of 10 things professional organizers can do to better market themselves.

1. Get listed in local search. Your business is local. That should drive a lot of your marketing choices. Improve your visibility in local search by visiting GetListed.org, which will walk you through the process of getting listed in the four most important engines for local search.

2. Don't use an AOL, Yahoo, Cox.net, Comcast or even Gmail address on your business card (or anywhere else.) It reeks of amateurism, and you're no amateurs. You're professional organizers, and your email address should be promoting your brand, not AOL's.

3. Where are you? Your business is local. Include your address on your business card. On the 100 or so business cards I got at the conference, only two had addresses. If you're not comfortable putting your home address on your business card at least get a PO box or list the cities and towns you do business in.

4. and more...

Interview With Susan Creel

2009-05-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

Success Driven Woman Interview Series Presents:
Anne Blumer, Professional Organizer
Owner and Founder of SolutionsForYou, Inc.
www.solutionsforyou.com

May 13, 2009 12:00-1:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Registration Cost: FREE

Sign up now to learn:

•Anne's story and how she became such a success!
•Which obstacles she encountered and how she overcame them.
•Tips on getting organized in your own home/office.
•How to get started on a project and how to KEEP it organized!
•Much, much more!

There will also be time for a Q&A session at the end. Get your questions ready!

SPECIAL BONUS: Anne will be giving away TWO File Solutions Home Filing Systems!! ($32.95 each value!)

Ask the Trainer

2009-04-18T14:02:00.000-07:00

Question: Hi Anne-
I just picked up a new customer-someone in my networking group. She has already told me that her house is very bad. And others in the group, when they found out she hired me, rolled their eyes and said, "Good luck!". I'm afraid she is most likely a chronically disorganized and maybe a hoarder. Her plan is to sell her house, but right now she's looking to rent somewhere and weed through the stuff in the empty house. She'll probably make a mess in the new place too.

I'm a little nervous about this; I have an appointment on Monday. She seems willing to purge and wants to change and get rid of stuff; I guess I'm a little anxious that if she DOES have a problem, it may be more than I can handle. I've already told myself not to feel bad if we only get so far; it won't be my fault if we take a step forward and 2 back, right? Any wise advice from a seasoned pro?

Answer: My initial reaction is to say, “no” because you don’t have the training to work with a hoarder or even possibly someone who is chronically disorganized. If you feel you want the experience of seeing this type of environment, then I suggest you use the Hoarding Scale from the NSGCD located in the materials I provided you to help you determine what level the environment is. If it is above a level I on the Hoarding Scale, then I advise you not to take the job unless you work with someone who has the training for the level of environment it is. I suggest you ask her to send you some digital pictures and then you can follow-up with a phone needs assessment asking questions based on the Hoarding Scale. This will prevent you from wasting your time and hers if it is an environment that is not suitable to your skill level or is not your ideal client. Find out who are other profesional organizers in your area that are skilled to work with the chronically disorganized or people who hoard so you can refer to them.

June Seminar - Recession Rate

2009-04-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

We are offering our June seminar at the low, low, rate of $999 if you register by May 18th. That's $300 off our early bird rate and $600 of our regular rate. Now is a very good time to learn How to Build Your Professional Organizer Business and Clientele! And remember, your registration is a business deduction. This is a win-win for you! Register now!!

FRE*E Teleclasses You Don't Want To Miss!

2009-04-09T14:07:00.001-07:00

Ready to make some long needed changes, but aren't sure how?

Join Professional Success and Wellness Coach, Susan Creal for these F*R*E*E, teleclasses and finally overcome your negative beliefs you have and be free and open for an organized, successful life.

How to create an organized, successful mindset and eliminate those negative, self-defeating beliefs for good!
April 21, 2009 8:00-9:00 p.m ET

How to gain back control, clarity and organization in your business and life.
May 12, 2009 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET

About the Coach:
Susan Creal is known as a Success and Wellness Coach for Women Entrepreneurs because she knows first-hand how to overcome obstacles both personal and professional with using specific tools and techniques she uses in her own life and the hundreds of women she has coached over the years. She is the founder of Success Driven Woman, LLC, a company supporting women entrepreneurs and sales professionals in creating lasting change, a success mindset and unstoppable self-confidence.

Susan's coaching style is a no-nonsense; get it done approach, coupled with sincerity and compassion. As a licensed Wellness Coach, a Life Strategist trained in the Life Strategist theories and techniques of Dr. Phil McGraw, a member of IAC, ICF, Coachville, Well coaches and a graduate of Coach U's CEP program Susan is committed to her profession. With extensive coaching in the Anthony Robbins coaching style methodology, Susan can guarantee two things for your life...Massive Change and Massive Results! "It's all about change! Are you ready?" You can read what some of her raving fans have to say about working with her by visiting www.successdrivenwoman.com

Professional Organizer Industry Trends

2009-03-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in the Professional Organizer Industry trends (1998-2007) such as this graph, contact me and I will share my findings with you. You can e-mail me at anne@professionalorganizertraininginstitute.com.

Ask the Trainer Q&A

2009-03-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

Question:
Hi Anne, I hope all is well with you. I am writing the marketing section of my business plan and I am searching for articles and information on the growth of our industry. Can you advise me on the best place to gather this information? Thank you so much for your guidance. It is a great support through this rocky building time! Best, Cathy

Answer:
Hi Cathy,
The best source is NAPO and the Board of Certified Professional Organizers. Understand, any industry information is going to be lagging by about two years, but you can get trends. However, the trends are changing in general due to the economic climate of today is so vastly different than it has been as during the growth of our industry. You might also just do a general Google search "professional organizer industry" and read the websites that come up.

If you find anything great--email me the link(s).

Anne

NAPO Conference April 29-May 2, 2009

2009-03-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

I made the decision to go and my reservations to the NAPO annual Conference! If you are planning on attending, let me know so we can connect. If you have been a Webinar participant I would love to meet you face to face. If you are new to the NAPO conference scene I would be happy to help you get oriented.

I hope to see you there!

Upcoming Events You Don't Want to Miss

2009-03-02T12:35:00.000-08:00

I’m very excited to see that the Professional Organizer industry is growing in this economy. Twenty-two new Professional Organizers launched their business with our Track 1, January and February Seminars, and Self Study program this year--that's two short months!

Our Professional Organizer Training Program for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs is the best place to start to launch your business or to become retrained in a new field that will see you through these tough economic times while realizing your dream of launching your Professional Organizer Business. Don't miss out! Register now for the next Webinar track or April 1-3 Seminar.

I look forward to meeting you soon at one of our Seminars, Webinars, or through our Self-study Program.

You can live the dream. Start here today!

Ask the Trainer - Is it a good time to start a business?

2009-02-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

At the NAPO Oregon Vendor Expo this past weekend I was asked, “With the economy being what it is, is it really a good time to start a Professional Organizer business?”

Answer: I replied, “It is probably the best time to start any business because you will have the time to focus on your Action List—everything you need to do to launch your business successfully. When the economy picks up people will start loosening their purse-strings and start spending again, then you will be ready for them. In the meantime, with the clients and contacts you do make be sure to communicate the value of your services and how you can benefit them.”

Do you want your own Action List with everything you need to do to launch your Professional Organizer business successfully? Do you want to learn how to communicate the value of your services and how you can benefit your clients? Now is the best time! The Professional Organizer industry is growing!! Our Track 1 Webinar filled and we are launching new Professional Organizers from New York to California next week at our live seminar in Portland, Oregon.

Our Track 2 Webinar is starting February 17th—come join us and discover the difference our program features will make in your training experience!

Marketing Tip

2009-01-26T05:49:00.000-08:00

Seth Godin's blog today titled The goals you never hear about, talks about being remarkable--the basis of his book, Purple Cow Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable. This quote from his blog inspires me to stand out and speak up and be remarkable, because I am who he speaks of--the one who is trying not to screw up in front of others and say something wrong.

"It's not stupid to have a stated goal of starting several ventures that will fail, or asking three stupid questions a week, or posting a blog post that the world disagrees with. If you don't have goals like this, how exactly are you going to luck into being remarkable?"

AM Northwest TV Debut

2009-01-19T09:34:00.001-08:00

Last week I experienced my AM Northwest TV debut launching a series of segments on Solutions for Your Organizing Resolutions. I was a tad bit nervous because I have never been on TV, except for a brief stint on the Heck Harper Show when I was six years old.

Guests of AM Northwest wait nervously in what is called the “green room”. I was fortunate to have a very fun co-guest to chat with and take my nervousness down several notches, her name is Jill Keto and she is the author of Don’t Get Caught With Your Skirt Down a Practical Girl’s Recession Guide. Jill has a different perspective on our economic outlook and offers alternative investment choices to what the traditionalists are espousing. If you want a new and fresh perspective, check out Jill’s segment on AM NW , definitely take more than a glance at her book , and for ongoing economic information follow her blog.

MARKETING TIP

2009-01-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

Subscribe to a list-serve or blog that serves your target market or that helps you grow your business. Such as entrepreneur.com. I subscribe to this blog and received a tip today that I want to share with you.

Keep Your Eye on the Prize: Customers. It starts out; "It's all about the customer. The underlying message for businesses of all sizes, especially in the current economic climate is simple: Hang on to your customers. The most important actions businesses can take right now is to stay in contact with customers, assure them that your business is here to stay, listen to their needs and treat them like they are valued. Try to focus your communication on informational content that adds value to them--not just promotional content. Make every customer touch point count." Sound advice! Want to finish the article by Gail Goodman read on.

Professional Organizer Industry is Growing!

2009-01-13T08:25:00.000-08:00

I’m very excited to see that the Professional Organizer industry is growing in this economy. Fourteen new participants are engaged in our Webinar Track 1 and Self-study Programs!

Our Professional Organizer Training Program for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs is the best place to start to launch your business or to become retrained in a new field that will see you through these tough economic times while realizing your dream of launching your Professional Organizer Business. Don't miss out! Register now for the next Webinar track or February Seminar

I look forward to meeting you soon at one of our Seminars, Webinars, or through our Self-study Program.

You can live the dream. Start here today!

Marketing Tip

2009-01-11T12:08:00.000-08:00

If you haven’t already set your business and marketing goals for 2009 consider doing it now before the year slips away.

For each business goal answer these questions:

Why is this an absolute must for you to achieve this goal?
How do you plan to accomplish this?
What resources do you need?
What threats are there?
What is your first step?
What is your deadline to accomplish this goal?

For each business goal what is your marketing:
Goal:
Strategy:
Budget:
Threats:
Daily Action:

Taking action now will prouduce increased revenue for you throughout the year!

MARKETING TIP

2008-12-27T11:14:00.001-08:00

January is Get Organized (GO) Month. There is no better time than the month of January to teach a class on organizing at your local community college or community center.

If you attended our training program in 2008 you received three workshops you can present; Paper Management, Time Management, and Clutter Control.

There’s no excuse. Get out there and get known in your community! Call and book a location and then send out an e-mail news blast, or use Constant Contact, to all of your clients, leads, friends, family, business connections, co-workers or former co-workers.

Be sure to send a press release to your local newspaper about your workshop. Who knows, they might come cover it and you will get free publicity!

ASK THE TRAINER

2008-12-19T10:27:00.001-08:00

Question:

Hi Anne,
I feel like my business is stuck and I really need help with marketing. Can you give me a boost?

Answer: Marketing is something you never stop doing, or shouldn’t stop doing, for two important reasons. One – it keeps you in front of your client and potential client. Two – it keeps you sharp and focused on your services and what you can offer.

If you really feel stuck and want some expert guidance I suggest you work with a Marketing Coach specific to our industry. And, lucky you there is one. Her name is Brandie, Kajino and her business is The Home Office Organizer. Check out what she can offer Professional Organizers at www.thehomeofficeorganizer.com/organizers-only/. Good luck and tell Brandie you heard about her from me.

If it is a website you need—my #1 marketing recommendation--I can help you with your website development. To get started read what we offer and then complete our online request form. If you have a website and would like to link with ours, you can do so by completing our website link exchange request form.

Marketing Tip of the Week

2008-12-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

Identify a new market.

A good friend of mine, also a Professional Organizer, wrote to me yesterday and said she thinks she wants to specialize at something so she gets really good at it. I say, “Brilliant!”

It’s a fact. The more focused you become about who your ideal client is and what you want to do, the more you become an expert in that area. And, we all know experts can command a niche market that can also command top dollar.

Do you know who your ideal client is? Are you working with them? Are you marketing to them? If not, that should be your focus this week.

VOTE FOR ME!

2008-12-10T12:45:00.000-08:00

The Los Angeles chapter of The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO-LA) is proud to present The 2009 Los Angeles Organizing Awards.

On January 30, the professional organizing industry will recognizes the best in the professional organizing industry world-wide. Professional organizers who set the standard for home and business productivity will be acknowledged for their accomplishments, along with those products and services that help consumers and businesses organize anything and everything.

For the 4th straight year, The Los Angeles Organizing Awards will honor twenty individuals and/or companies that represent the best of the best in the professional organizing industry world-wide. Recipients will receive their awards at the public congratulatory gala on January 30, as National "Get Organized Month" comes to a close.

Voting for the 4th Annual Los Angeles Organizing Awards closes December 31. All winners will be decided by popular public vote and will be announced at the Awards.

I will be most appreciative of your vote for Anne Blumer, Professional Organizer Training Institute under the category of Most Valuable Educational Resource (class, workshop, or resource that contributed most to your education about organizing). Go to the upper right corner of my blog now and please VOTE for me!

Thank you in advance for your vote!

Ask the Trainer

2008-12-06T10:21:00.001-08:00

Question: I would like to run this opportunity by you for your suggestions and/or thoughts. I have the opportunity to speak with some tenants of an office park about organizing their work space for the new year. I have about 50 minutes total to teach them something! I was planning on providing some take-aways, besides my business card! Any thoughts?

Answer: You could talk about just paper management or time management or a combination of both.

Talk about what a lack of organizational skills causes; loss of time, money, space, energy, relationships and then talk about the value your services can provide; regaining time, money, space, energy and relationships. Sell your VALUE!

You could give them a little questionnaire to find out if their preference is for paper or electronic time management tools. Gives them an activity and you a break.

Or, you could have them fill out the Your Relationship With Clutter exercise from Unit II.

If you are feeling really brave, do a demonstration. Organize someone's desk area to show how much can be accomplished in 50 minutes! This is a very interactive approach and participants love an engaging presentation.

Have a drawing for a take-away gift or for your services to get their contact information for newsletters and/or to contact them for organizing help.

Good luck and let me know how it turns out!

Anne

Fun Calendars

2008-11-30T09:39:00.000-08:00

Looking for a new background for your computer? KLeigh Creative is a great web site for finding new CALENDAR backgrounds. Check it out at

kleighcreative.com

... New calendars to choose from every month!

What is your organizing WOW factor?

2008-11-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

Recently, I have researched many TV segments featuring Professional Organizers sharing their ways of organizing various areas of one’s home, business and lives. Additionally, I have read many of the latest books written by Professional Organizers explaining their methods for organizing. Lastly, I have perused numerous Professional Organizers websites from newbies to veterans.

What has struck me is...nothing! There is nothing revolutionary being said. No WOW factor. I feel like I have heard it all and seen it all when comes to “how to” organize. If I feel that way, I wonder, does the public at large feel that way too?

Which brings me to my point of this blog post…what is the organizing WOW factor for you? What makes you say, “WOW I never thought of that before!” or “WOW I think that might really help me to get organized!”

I want to hear from you whether you are a Professional Organizer, a person in need of organizing, someone who has always been organized, or someone who has recently become organized. So, do tell…what is your organizing WOW factor?

ASK THE TRAINER Q&A

2008-11-19T07:47:00.001-08:00

Hi Anne,
I hope you can help – and are willing to help your “in over her head” student. I am not really in over my head, I am just not sure how to go about something.

I have my first project where I may need the help of someone else, and I am not sure how to go about it. It is a larger project and the client does not want to have anything to do with it, other than for me to tell her what I have done and what she needs to do to maintain it. I can do that – although not the ideal scenario as I am used to having the help of a client.

I am used to having the client help with a project, so what do I do now when I don’t have any help? How do I approach her about whether she is fine with me doing the project on my own – or if she wants me to hire someone to get the job done faster? How do I go about including an assistant in the estimate? If I charge by the hour, or by the package deal, how do I account for another body – especially when I don’t even have another body? Where do you find help? How do you hire help? Another organizer is going to raise rates considerably – but we will get the job done in half the time.

Help – I don’t know what to do and I am in the middle of a proposal!

I hope you can help.
Thank you Anne,

Answer: Breathe!!

If you don’t have any help, do a macro grouping of items by activity or category. Then ask the client to review each grouping and decide what can be reduced.

If the client wants you to do the reducing, then place those items in boxes for them to make the final decision and disposal.

I don’t think anyone can get the job done faster unless they have more people working on the project. Which you can do too if you want to. As I recall, you worked very well with the other participants on your organizing project. You would be the lead organizer on this project.

Regarding assistants: If they are not your employee and you pay someone over $600 you need to report it on a 1099. These are considered independent contractors and you will want an agreement with them to protect you. Sally Allen of A Place For Everything has an Independent Contractor Guidebook that can help you if you go this route. Check it out at http://www.sallyallenorganizer.com/independentContractors.htm.

When I have a big project I bring in other Professional Organizers from the NAPO Oregon chapter or that I have trained through my training program. The client pays each Professional Organizer at my hourly rate. It looks like it costs more to the client so you need to remind them that the project will take at the most the same amount of time as if you were to do the project alone, it will just be done in a shorter period of time (the benefit of others working on the project = less time). In reality, what I have experienced when I have others help me on a project is the project gets completed in fewer hours than if I were to do it alone. So, it is actually a cost benefit as well as a time saving benefit to the client.

Another options is, you could propose to the other Professional Organizers who work on the the project with you a flat hourly rate less than yours, because you found the client and are providing them with billable hours without their marketing/overhead efforts. That would help to lower the cost to the client.

Or, you could hire temporary help through a temp agency that would eliminate the need to set up payroll and other employee overhead costs/requirements.

This is a lot of information, so let me know what other questions you have after reading through it.

Anne

MARKETING TIP

2008-11-16T15:59:00.000-08:00

Stay in touch with your clients during the holiday season. You can still send Thanksgiving cards and tell your clients how thankful you are for their business.

Do you think it will take too much time? Too much work to handwrite all of those cards? Then check out http://www.sendoutcards.com/. You can upload your contact database in one stroke and send out cards in another. You can even do it in your own handwriting! What are you waiting for? I'm sending mine out now!

ASK THE TRAINER

2008-11-12T05:57:00.000-08:00

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.

WEEKLY MARKETING TIP

2008-11-10T05:58:00.000-08:00

If the economy is causing a decrease in your client time, now is the time for you to update and polish your services. If you have an open block of client time (ie no billable client time) then work in your office.

Really focus on what is your unique niche that you can bring to clients. If you haven't identify who your key client is do it now! Are they single professional women, families, small business owners, store-front businesses, home-based businesses, students, seniors, crafters, who are they?

Next create a marketing message and develop your marketing materials (website, brochures, business card, menu of services, flyers, etc) focused on your key client. You don't need to attract everyone, you do need to attract clients you want to work with.

Then watch the magic happen...

ASK THE TRAINER

2008-11-05T05:27:00.000-08:00

QUESTION: I would like to learn how to do workplace assessments for litigation lawyers. Most of them have paralegals and other staff dealing with the paper. The lawyer needs an integrated system to file and retrieve others' work, and integrate her/his own work with theirs. Any ideas?

ANSWER: The Paper Tiger software would address it. For more information look at www.thepapertiger.com.

WEEKLY MARKETING TIP

2008-11-03T05:07:00.000-08:00

Get Linked In. Check out my profile and let's get linked in. It's a great place to find someone you are in need of through someone you already know, like and trust. It's also a form of social networking.

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2008-10-29T05:10:00.000-07:00

Question: I have been meaning to call for advice. I got all ready and then have stalled. I wanted bit more experience before I really promoted myself, but that does not seem to have happened. I am "working" on 4 jobs but none are finished. 1. Playroom: I did the initial consult. Suggested some storage units. She chose some and we made plans to continue when they arrived - one week. She called a week later to say that she had changed her mind on her choice. So I sent her four other product line choices. 2. Garage re-do. Great project. 3rd garage to be filled with shelves and racks. Did consult, she wanted to paint garage first. Very excited. Paint done. ($1000) They are real estate agents in a slow market, so it may be a few weeks before they have $500 to continue so I am in wait mode. 3. Holiday storage room. This lady has over 40 large totes in a 8x 10 room. You could not step into it. We did consult, and cleaned out bins. I suggested some carpenters for inexpensive shelving. Stalled again. 4. Memory boxes/non-traditional baby books. Lady bought the products that I recommended and has my ideas for pages but is moving really slowly. Waiting. These are all friends, so I don't want to push too hard any advice is welcome!

Answer: It sounds like you are getting paid for these projects--right? For future projects to prevent stalling asking for a non-refundable down payment of 50% prior to project start and then 50% collected at the end of the project. Money motivates people. There are clients who do move very slowly--in fact most do. It has to do with their state of readiness. Read this fact sheet from the NSGCD to understand more about client readiness. In the meantime, I would call each client back and get a session scheduled or ask them what they need from you to get back on track with their project. Let them know if they don’t schedule now, there could be a delay when they want to schedule because you book out 2-3 weeks. Don’t give up, sometimes you have to be persistent :)

WEEKLY MARKETING TIP

2008-10-27T05:27:00.000-07:00

Join a networking group such as your local Chamber of Commerce, Business Network International (BNI), Rotary Club, or Ladies Who Launch. Word of mouth is one of the most effective marketing tools, because marketing is all about RELATIONSHIPS.

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2008-10-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

QUESTION: What is your guidance around completely emptying the room? Always? If you are focusing on just one section of it, per client request, i.e. one table of papers stacked, I am assuming you don't always need to empty out the furniture and all, but.....I am thinking of two scenarios:

1. The thought for one client, of completely emptying out her kitchen and starting over, FREAKED her out, so I tried to work within/around it.....thankfully I was volunteering....it went ok/not great....

2. A different client.....HOARDER to the hilt......we started in the kitchen (stuff in boxes, she had moved and due to a huge accompanying life transition - divorce etc., she had been unpacked for months.) The only place available to even start sorting through the boxes (stuff all thrown in there to move quickly) was the front yard, there literally was not adequate room to sort inside because every room was a disaster. She did not want to do this, so I made due with this very uncomfortable tiny space and somehow did manage to get the kitchen pretty squared away......but had to move and remove stuff out of my way.....wasn't enjoyable.

Do you find clients hesitant on this? I guess underneath my questions I am struggling with when to take charge and when to work with the client and their emotions and requests, and how to smoothly orchestrate the dynamics and power in the situation when conflict arises....

ANSWER: Emptying a room is the ideal. No, it does not always work, for the very reasons you stated. If you can point out to your client what you see as the benefits of emptying the room they may be more willing for you to guide them.

If a room is not available you could use a yard space as you suggested, their driveway, or their patio or deck. I often use hallways and stair landings because that is the only space available. In some cases (such as rainy Portland, Oregon) PODS (portable on demand storage) work well for larger rooms, garages, or a large amount of "stuff" to sort.

You should always be the one in charge, not the client. To help them feel in control review their goals with them and your process for achieving their goals.

WEEKLY MARKETING TIP

2008-10-20T06:09:00.000-07:00

First, read Do You Have 16 Boxes at Seth Godin's site.

Second, if you are in your first year as a Professional Organizer review the action list you received at your training with me (Business Plan session). What on your action list is unfinished?

If your business has slowed due to the economy there isn't a lot you can do about that--unless you can now control the economy :) That isn't in my power so I'm not focusing there. However, you can focus on what you can finish on your action list. When the economy picks up, turn around, or whatever it will do to stimulate the general population to start spending their discretionary income again, you will be ready for new clients.

If you have been in business for more than a year, you most likely have a great list of contacts (leads, clients, and other interested people). Create a newsletter or blog if you haven't already. If you have created one of these marketing pieces, now is the time to send out more with lots of juicy tips and organizing secrets. Keep yourself present with your contacts. They may not call you today or tomorrow, but they will call you when they are "ready". How do you know when your client is ready? Read this fact sheet from the NSGCD.

Already doing all of that, now is the time to think about growing your business. Write an e-book, work on developing a product, or hone your speaking skills and venues.

Regardless of where you are in your career as a Professional Organizer, volunteer. Now is when people need your expertise more than ever. Volunteer at a school or a senior center. People will remember you and they will talk about you. And, we all know word of mouth is one of the best marketing tools available to us.

Don't think about shrinking...think about growing. Plant your seeds now so you will be ready to harvest when the economy does turn around.

WEEKLY MARKETING TIP

2008-10-15T08:21:00.000-07:00

Create an RSS blog feeder to receive up-to-date information on your profession, industry, product, target market groups, etc. Or, read articles from trade magazines and newsletters. Not sure where to find a blog on organizing? Google it!

These are the blogs in my reader:

43 Folders
Disorder2Order Blog
Home Office Organizer
Organising Queen (10)
Professional Organize...
[ real neat ] - real ...
See Jane Work
Seth's Blog
SolutionsForYou, Inc.
Story of Stuff
The Clutter Diet Blog
Virtually Organized
Your Life. Organized..

For tips on managing blogging visit Marcia Francois's blog the Organizing Queen.

Better tip, start blogging and send me your blog site when you do.

ASK THE TRAINER

2008-10-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Question: Hi Anne, The training program manuals are great ‘after training’ references. I have been reviewing the information and I have a question about the actual work with clients. I understand the "30 second hook" has the first phase as the complimentary needs assessment.... Is this done over the phone or in the client's house? Has there been a commitment to use your services at this point? Actually onsite certainly allows for better assessment but this could get expensive if they don't follow through. What are you thoughts on how this is usually handled?

Answer: Good question. First of all, the needs assessment doesn’t need to be complimentary. Second, the assessment can be done other than on-site. You can do assessments by phone, e-mail, web site form, in person, or however you choose. I would suggest you do all of your assessments onsite until you are comfortable with the needs assessment questions and have performed enough onsite assessments to understand what you might be “facing”. However, if your client can send you pictures of the areas they need help with that can give you a pretty good visual too. I didn’t start doing “off-site” assessments until last year (year 4). And, I still perform assessments on-site in combination with preparing an Organizing Plan of Action.

All the best,
Anne

Welcome

2008-10-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

The purpose of my training program blog is to stay in touch and support training participants after completing their training program, keep the public informed of our upcoming programs, hear what our participants are saying about the programs, and to provide you with industry information that may be helpful in your pursuit as a Professional Organizer. I want to provide you with information you are seeking. If you have ideas for a blog, please send them to me. Also, send me your questions for the "Ask the Trainer" blog posts where in future blog postings I will provide you with answers based on my experiences, training and education.

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