FAQ

I understand that inviting a professional organizer into your living space can feel a little scary! My goal is for the process of getting started together to feel approachable and stress-free. If there are questions holding you back from having the organized and calm space you crave, read on to learn more!

Getting Started

What are your must-know tips for someone hiring an organizer for the first time?

Professional organizers are a wonderful group of caring people, as a general rule. It is important to find someone you feel comfortable with and trust, as decluttering and organizing can often be an emotional adventure.

Do your homework and interview a few professional organizers. I would recommend using napo.net to begin your search for an organizer.

How do I know if you’re the right organizer for me?

A positive relationship is key to organizing success! I want you to feel comfortable with me, which is why it is important to set up a free consultation. Not only does it help me get to know you and your goals for becoming more organized, but it also helps you decide if I am the right organizer to work with.

Why did you name your company Green Earth Organizing?

I have always been passionate about keeping our planet healthy. It’s the only one we have, after all! My business is based on the premise that each of us can make a positive impact for the environment and the land we live on.

I love to do my part by helping people learn how to discard and recycle items sustainably. I also know that letting go of personal items can be emotional for some—Knowing that your belongings can be given a second life can make the process of creating a beautiful space, while supporting the planet, that much easier!

I feel self-conscious about someone coming into my home and seeing all my clutter. What will make getting started easier?

Please know that I will absolutely not judge you! Clutter is a very human experience, and does not mean anything is wrong with you. I have seen all kinds of spaces and levels of clutter, and many happy clients on the other side of them. Ultimately, I am here to help you create clarity and calm so you can enjoy the spaces we organize.

Do you only re-organize my items, or can you help me sort through things I don’t need to keep?

Sorting through items before organizing is the less glamorous part of the job, but a must. It is essential to see what you have so that you know what you do and don’t need, so we can create more space.

Do I need to know exactly what the organized version of my rooms will look like before we start?

During your consultation, I will ask you for your vision of your space so that we have a goal to work towards. However, it is absolutely ok if that vision changes along the way. We will work together to figure that out!

I only need help in some areas of my home. Can we pick and choose what rooms we organize?

Yes! I like to tell clients to start with the space that bugs them the most, and then go from there. I will also work with you to make sure that whatever we tackle will be broken into bite-size pieces.

What if I have way too much stuff? Do I need to clean and get rid of things before we start working together?

Not at all! This is exactly what I can support you with. No amount of clutter is too intimidating for me!

Will you help me organize all of my paperwork?

I absolutely can! I will also help you create an easy-to-use system that allows you to take charge of your paper items moving forward.

Do I need to buy bins, boxes, etc.?

While this is generally the most fun in the process of decluttering and organizing, I like to save this for last. You will be surprised how little you need to buy after you declutter your space. You may even already have what you need! If you need or want new containers and bins for your items, I will measure your shelving to make sure whatever you order will fit well and maximize your space.

I reuse boxes from big box stores, liquor stores, and online purchases to pack donated materials in, so no need to purchase cardboard boxes.

I feel overwhelmed by how many things I need to sort through and organize. How can we possibly tackle it all?

This is what I’m here for! I will work with you to create a plan that includes a scope and sequence of the project so that it is broken down into small manageable pieces. I’ll be guiding you the entire way through, so you’re never going it alone.

Do I have to be part of the decluttering / organizing process, or can you work independently?

It is preferable to work alongside me for the decluttering process. This means you’ll be able to give me feedback right then and there for items that can be donated, recycled, or discarded, however, it is not necessary. I will never take anything out of your home or workspace without your permission first.

For organizing items, I am able to work alone to reveal the final product. The plan that we created together will give me a guideline for how you like to have your items organized. If I have questions along the way, I will ask you.

How far out are you booking new clients?

I book clients on a first come, first served basis, but will try to accommodate your schedule to the best of my ability. There may be times that I have a cancellation and am able to fit you in at the last minute.

What is your confidentiality policy?

I am a member of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) and as a member I must adhere to NAPO’s strict code of ethics, which states:

I will keep confidential all client information, both business and personal, including that which may be revealed by other organizers.

I will use proprietary client information only with the client’s permission.

I will keep client information confidential and not use it to benefit myself or my firm, or reveal this information to others.

Have a question I haven’t answered here? Reach out and I would be happy to help! No question is too silly.