How to Choose a Professional Organizer
March 24, 2025
One of the reasons I require all potential clients to book a consultation call before we can schedule a tidying session is to ensure that my organizing services align with their needs. If it’s not the right fit, it won’t be joyful for either of us. This is why in some cases, I may even advise a client that they don’t need to hire me or refer them to another service provider. This is why I don’t just say yes to every organizing opportunity.
I am not going to be the right organizer for everyone and the same goes for any other service providers out there. If you’re considering hiring a Professional Organizer in Calgary or anywhere else in the world and not sure how to choose the right person for the job, i hope this post will help provide some clarity. Here are 5 things to consider when choosing a Professional Organizer:
1. What is the organizer’s experience and approach?
In short, hire a professional and not a hobbyist. Just like all things in life, you get what you pay for. As organizing is not a regulated industry, there are many people who enjoy organizing their own home so they decide to turn their passion into a side hustle and charge a below market rate. I’ve even seen many cases where an “organizer” is not organized at all when it comes to their own space so they are not practicing what they preach to their clients. When hiring any service provider, it’s important to choose someone who is capable if you dont want to waste your time and money. It’s also important to choose a professional that is credible and trustworthy as this person will have access to areas in your home that many of your family and friends don’t even have access to.
Here are a few more things to consider:
Do they have related training or certifications?
Do they have a process they follow?
Do they have an established and credible business?
Do they have business insurance?
Will you be working with the owner of the business or one of their contractors?
2. Can the organizer work within your budget?
Budget is an important consideration when hiring an organizer. However, many clients aren’t sure what to expect in terms of cost. You also can’t choose based on the hourly rate alone because something that may take a week for one organizer may only take 2 days for another so you might end up spending more time and money even when the hourly rate is much lower. For me, a good way to navigate this is by discussing different service or payment options. For example, I offer various packages to accommodate different budgets. If my standard package isn’t feasible for a client, I can suggest alternative ways to work together. When it comes to determining your budget, it’s also important to be realistic about how much work you are willing to do in between sessions to move the process along. The key is to have open and honest communication about your needs and financial constraints.
3. Can the organizer work within your timeline?
Timing can be a deciding factor when hiring a professional organizer. Personally, I’ve had to turn down many clients simply because our schedules didn’t align. This is especially common when clients are in a rush—this can be prepping a home for sale, last-minute moves, decluttering before a renovation, or even getting ready before the arrival of a new baby. For example, some organizers will book full consecutive days in a week for each project or offer services where they can work in your space while you’re away, which might be a better fit especially when you have a tight schedule and you don't have a lot of time to work with them.
4. Are you looking for a temporary fix or a lifestyle change?
Organizing can be a one-time solution or a long-term transformation—it depends on your goals. Some people view organizing as a temporary fix, similar to hiring a weekly cleaner; they know their space will eventually return to its previous state. Others are tired of living the way they have been living and want to create lasting change by adopting new habits. If you're looking for a lifestyle shift, choose an organizer who can help you develop sustainable organizing habits rather than just tidying up for you.
5. Does the organizer spark joy?
Ultimately, you want to choose someone you genuinely enjoy working with. If you feel a connection with your organizer and trust their guidance, you’ll be more likely to follow through with their recommendations. On the other hand, if you’re unsure about them, the process may feel slow and frustrating. Trust your instincts—pick someone whose approach resonates with you and who makes the process feel enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a professional organizer can be a game-changer, but finding the right one is key. Take the time to evaluate their experience, approach, pricing, availability, and whether their style matches your goals. When you find the right fit, the process of organizing your home can be joyful and truly transformative.
And if you’re still unsure, I’d be happy to chat—just book a consultation call! 😊 My in-home organizing services are available in Calgary and surrounding areas or virtually around the world.