5 Things you should know before hiring a Professional Organiser.

Congratulations, you’re thinking about hiring a Professional Organiser! The Professional Organising industry is still relatively small in New Zealand, so you might have some questions around the service that we provide. I want to give you some clarity around the most frequently asked questions and queries that I get asked, and some aspects that you might feel a little nervous about!

1 ⁃ Q- Do i need to tidy up? I’m so embarrassed about my space!

A- We won’t judge. I promise you. Your space is overwhelming for you, and you feel the weight of that. We come in with fresh eyes, and see your space through a professional lense. Mess shows us the pattern of how you realistically use your home, and gives us insight into the system that we can design for you. Like any service provider, if a Professional Organiser doesn’t make you feel comfortable and at ease, they should not be working in your home. Personally, i’m a naturally messy person and I love stuff, so i totally understand how things get out of hand.

2 ⁃ Q- Are there organisers that specialise in different styles, or work with specific people?

A- There are two main types of Professional Organiser in New Zealand, and its important you know which one to hire. Some organisers are aesthetics focused, turning a ho-hum space with some clutter and disorganisation into a very beautiful and calm, pretty space. They will often provide their own branded products and create a specific, on trend look.

Other Organisers are function first. Most organisers are focused on creating an organised system with functionality being the priority goal. This means they will likely use the containers you already own. It’s a cheaper option because you aren’t buying as much product, if any, however it may not look as beautiful or styled as an aesthetic organiser might achieve.

Some organisers such as myself have niche knowledge and experience, such as organising for ADHD, autism, chronic disorganisation or other neurodiverse needs such as dementia.

Most Professional Organisers do not work with people who have Compulsive Hoarding Disorder, as ethically this requires specialist training and a wrap around service from a psychologist or other health care professionals.

3 ⁃ Q- Do they take away my decluttered items and trash?

Ask your organiser if this is a service they provide. Most organisers will take away your decluttered items that are suitable for donation, and redistribute among charity stores and community organisations within the local community.

4 - Q- What do i need to do, to be prepared?

I tell my clients to have an early night and a good breakfast! Decision making can be hard work, and organising is more tiring than you might expect. During your consult, ask the organiser for an expectation of how much you might be able to get done in one session. It’s not the same as your weekly housekeeping spruce up- this is getting deep into how the rhythm of your home runs, and how it functions. It can definitely take longer than you expect. The organiser will work to your pace, but it depends on how many items are within an area, and the time it takes for you to make decluttering choices.

5 ⁃ Q- How do other people in the home feel about this?

The last question is for you. Is everyone on board with this idea? If not, have you expressed the importance of this service for your own sanity? Some people don’t see the value in our services, some people don’t see a cluttered home as a problem. You are welcome to put in place boundaries with your organiser and request that some spaces and rooms are not to be organised. It’s important that everyone feels comfortable and we are happy to accommodate these needs.

If you have any questions or queries you think i should add- let me know! Flick me an email and your question to Hello@curatehome.co.nz.