This is the final post for the series on the field of Professional Organizers. Today, I’ll FINALLY answer the question, “Answer the DARN question already! How much does a PO cost fergadsake?”
Based on the last 9 posts, you can see that the very word ‘typical’ or ‘average’ is kind of an oxymoron in the field of Professional Organizing. To say that a typical organizing project can take anywhere from 6 to 100 hours, is not much of an estimate at all! So, project estimates are dependent upon the PO, the client’s needs and capabilities, the starting conditions, the desired results, the regional location and of course, a client’s budget.
A new PO might charge $300–$800 for a job that lasts 2-5 sessions, where a 5-star certified PO might charge $1,200 – $5,000. A good PO with some experience under his or her belt will likely be in the region of $900 – $3,000 for the same number of sessions. Realize however, that different organizers run their businesses differently. One may charge a reduced hourly rate for advanced booking, while another may charge by the hour, and others may have you sign up for a length of an engagement with special modifiers, maintenance riders and shopping or concierge services. It’s not easy to compare apples to oranges, and in the world of professional services, what is most important is determining whether you feel you’re getting a value proposition for the services you’re looking to hire.
If you understand that getting organized is a transformational process and not just an event, it will help you to set a budget for the process. You can easily find a talented PO who will be able to get you started and moving in the right direction toward your goals for an initial investment. I, like some of my colleagues, offer group coaching and phone coaching options for clients who are in maintenance mode, or who desire more accountability and motivation than actual hands-on assistance.
Whatever your needs, it will be easier if you set a budget, and don’t forget to build in any additional expenses in your space such as furniture, file cabinets, and storage systems. Once you’ve determined your goals, I highly recommend finding one PO to work with you through the process from start to finish. Often, the long-term commitment will allow them to offer you the best package plan, and they may reduce their hourly rates as much as 20% if you sign up to fix your situation. The people who have chosen this career really do want to help you. They would not be in this if they didn’t. They ultimately want to see you through it, not accompany you into the woods and leave you there. It then behooves you to actually sign-on for the long haul, so you can reap the best benefit.
“Aren’t they just going to make the project last longer to make more?”
If you’re out of shape, you can’t expect to go into the gym and after one workout be “fit”. You need to sign up for the long haul – and do the work. Your Professional Organizer will be your coach, facilitator, counselor, mentor, helper and support system throughout the process. He or she will gently lead the way, while motivating you to continue to take actions toward your goals, repeatedly.
It’s never, ever, ever just about the stuff…
Need help? Contact me!
Cena Block is the Founder of Sane Spaces, LLC is a Productivity Consulting firm that offers training, coaching, and motivational speaking to individuals and organizations. We help clients increase productivity and minimize wasted time by achieving clarity within their spaces, systems, selves and support. Clarity + Action = Results. Get unstuck by releasing the areas where you are blocked. Our clients are high performers who want to see dramatic results. We are committed to partnering with you to create a work environment and a life you love.
Cena is a NAPO National Member, the President of the NAPO-NNJ Chapter. For more information visit www(dot)sanespaces(dot)com
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