I’m Katherine Lawrence, and since 2002, I’ve been fortunate enough to make money organizing and decluttering for others. Today, I’m excited to share with you the journey of how I turned my passion into a thriving career and offer you five strategies to help you get paid to organize.
I’ll be the first to admit working as a professional organizer is kind of a unique job. Imagine being invited into someone’s home, their personal sanctuary, and being shown their most chaotic spaces – the ones they’d hesitate to show even their closest friends. It’s intimate, and it’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly. If you are just thinking about a career as an organizer, pick up your free launch guide here.
But the joy of helping someone reimagine a space, making their home more functional and enjoyable, is unparalleled. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s about understanding your client’s needs and the principles of organization.
Before anyone hires you to declutter and organize, they need to trust you. This trust is built by consistently showing up, being visible, and demonstrating your expertise. Remember, you’re not just rearranging items; you’re reshaping someone’s personal space.
Strategy 1: Understand Your Market
Every successful business understands its market, and the world of professional organizing is no different. Just as businesses need customers, every organizer needs a clientele that resonates with their style and expertise.
Ask yourself: What services would best serve my community? If you’re in an area with many families moving to larger homes, perhaps storage design is a niche to consider. Conversely, if you’re surrounded by retirees, downsizing might be your forte. Research other organizers in your vicinity to see what aligns with your experience.
Here are the supplies I take on every paid organizing job.
Strategy 2: Get Training
Organizing for others is vastly different from organizing your own space. Efficiency and understanding your client’s goals are paramount. While certification isn’t mandatory, some basic training can refine your skills and bolster your credibility.
I’d recommend starting with a short course to get your feet wet. Over the years, you’ll continue to learn and adapt. In fact, I still find myself researching new techniques and products to better serve my clients.
Strategy 3: Build a Portfolio
Your portfolio is your visual resume. While you might not aspire to be a social media influencer, platforms like Instagram are fantastic for showcasing your work. Post images that reflect your organizing style and philosophy, giving potential clients a glimpse into your approach.
Wondering how you would get clients for your organizing business? Here’s a free workshop.
Strategy 4: Practice, Practice, Practice!
The path from organizing enthusiast to professional is paved with practice. Start by redoing a friend’s closet or a coworker’s kitchen. Document your work, gather testimonials, and use each experience to refine your skills. Here is how I declutter a space.
Strategy 5: Word-of-Mouth Marketing
In business, reputation is everything. A satisfied client’s recommendation is worth its weight in gold. Share your plans, listen to people’s organizational challenges, and offer solutions. Word-of-mouth marketing is genuine and cost-effective, making it a fantastic way to gain both practice and paid clients.
Ready to Dive In?
So, are you ready to embark on a journey of starting a professional organizing business? If you’re passionate about decluttering and organizing, this could be the perfect career path for you.
Remember, with the right strategies and a passion for organizing, you too can get paid to organize.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, and until next time, keep organizing!
