FAQs

1. What is a Professional Organizer?

   As defined by NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers), "A Professional Organizer enhances the lives of clients by designing systems and processes using organizing principles and through transferring organizing skills. A Professional Organizer also educates the public on organizing solutions and the resulting benefits."

2. How does a Professional Organizer work? Is it like on "Hoarders," where an entire crew comes in to help clear my clutter? Is there a certain level of disorganization required before I call in for "professional help"?

   All organizing projects -- such as clearing clutter, sorting paper, or setting up a new office -- require decision-making. Professional Organizers help you make the necessary decisions by asking questions, offering advice and providing hands-on help. They do this onsite (e.g. in your home or office) often in multi-hour "work sessions." Some organizers also offer a "needs assessment" which is a written or verbal overview of the work that needs to be done and a game plan for getting it done. A "needs assessment" is offered as an initial appointment or within the first work session. Some Professional Organizers also offer phone or email consultation services.

   There are many levels of disorganization from "minor" to "extreme" that can be improved with the help of a professional organizer. Often each situation is subjective; what is deemed extremely messy by one may not affect the lifestyle of another. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing dissatisfaction due to a disorganized home or work environment, a professional organizer might be helpful to you. The show "Hoarders" deals with the more extreme cases of disorganization, often accompanied by one or more mental disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD. There are NAPO affiliated professional organizers who specialize in helping more chronic cases. The National Study Group for Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD) has further information on this topic.

   Unlike former cable reality shows, such as "Mission: Organization" or "Clean Sweep," which featured many hours' worth of work in each episode, a "real life" organizing project usually involves fewer people and more time (e.g. multiple work sessions). Rather than providing a crew of help (which would cost you significantly more money), most Professional Organizers work in partnership with you, usually in a one-on-one setting, so it's important that the organizer and client "click" and work well together.

3. What rates do Professional Organizers in Minnesota charge?

   As with most professions, fees vary widely based on experience, geographic location, and competition. Many professional organizers charge by the hour, while others prefer value-based pricing and charge by the project. Some will give you options. You will need to establish a budget and decide what feels most comfortable to you.

   Avoid choosing a professional organizer strictly by price. Instead, focus on value by finding an organizer with a personality you click with and a skill set that matches your needs. That person is most likely to deliver the results you expect in the shortest amount of time.

4. Who can be a Professional Organizer? Is there any formal education or a certification program? Is NAPO membership required?

   The education and past work experience of Professional Organizers varies. No formal education is required to become a Professional Organizer; however, many new organizers learn from veterans in the industry. In addition, NAPO and NAPO Minnesota offer educational programs to their members to improve their knowledge and skills.

   The professional organizing industry has a certification program that was developed by NAPO and is operated under the auspices of the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers® (BCPO®). The Certified Professional Organizer (CPO®) designation is a voluntary, industry-led effort that benefits the public and members of the organizing profession. CPO Certification recognizes those professionals who have met specific minimum qualifications and have proven through examination and client interaction that they possess the body of knowledge and experience required for certification. The program recognizes and raises industry standards, practices, and ethics. While the CPO designation is not an endorsement or recommendation, certification of professional organizers maximizes the value received from the services provided and products recommended by a CPO.

5. What does being a "NAPO/NAPO Minnesota member" mean?

   Professional Organizers who are also NAPO members have agreed to be part of a community of professionals in a new and growing industry. By being a NAPO member, Professional Organizers can enjoy an affiliation with like-minded professionals who can support, mentor and educate one another. Clients who work with a NAPO member/Professional Organizer can be assured they are dealing with a professional who has agreed to NAPO's Code of Ethics, which includes providing confidentiality and fair, independent pricing to all clients.

6. How can I find a Professional Organizer/NAPO Minnesota member to help me?

   If you know of friends, colleagues or others who have used a professional organizer, consider asking for recommendations. Otherwise, use the free and confidential Find An Organizer search tool found on the right side of your page. NAPO Minnesota recommends that you contact at least three Professional Organizers to find the one who best matches your organizing needs, personality, and budget.

7. How can I become a NAPO Minnesota member?

   Becoming a chapter member requires being a NAPO member first. Once approved as a NAPO member, you may join NAPO Minnesota.