Starting Out as a Professional Organizer
When an aspiring organizer in the UK reached out with thoughtful questions about starting a professional organizing business, it felt like the perfect opportunity to pull back the curtain and share our Q&A dialogue here.
Q: What were the first two years like? Did you make any big mistakes?
A: The first two years were focused on developing the Minima brand and getting the business up and running. Working for another organizer for two years before launching my own gave me space to learn the ropes and hone my skills, so thankfully I avoided any major missteps. While those early years were profitable, money was tight until things felt more financially secure by year three.
Q: What skills are essential to succeed as a professional organizer?
A: Good organizing skills are essential, of course, and my architecture background has been extremely helpful for understanding how to maximize space. Soft skills are just as important: compassion, flexibility, patience, and good listening. Home organizing is a personal service, and much of our work is teaching clients how to let go of items or mindsets holding them back. You have to put your own agenda aside, stay focused on the client’s goals, and remember there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
Q: What kind of rates can someone starting out expect to charge?
A: It depends on where you live, but here in Richmond most people start out charging around $50/hr.
Q: Where did you find your first clients?
A: I was a member of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) and the local NAPO-Richmond chapter for many years, which is where my first clients found me. Today, people find Minima through press features, social media (primarily Instagram), and word of mouth. Speaking engagements and classes are great ways to meet potential clients too—in-person events are still so impactful.
This post was updated in 2024. To read more about how Minima has grown, check out “Minima Celebrates 10 Years: A Look at Our Evolution.”
I offer one-on-one mentorship sessions for new organizers all around the world. Simply fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch!