Need to refer a Professional Organizer?

You know someone who could use the services of a Professional Organizer... They are constantly apologizing for the mess when you drop something off at their house. They avoid hosting events because it's too difficult to clean up the house for company. They cannot park in the garage, because there is too much stuff in it. They have to move piles out of the way to create a workspace on the desk or table. They are constantly stressed out because they have too much on their calendar and no time to relax. So... how do you politely and tactfully refer your friend or family member to a Professional Organizer? Without hurting their feelings or them thinking you are judging? Without sticking your nose in to someone else's business? That is the big question! Organizing is a highly personal business. As an organizer, we see the ins & outs of the space, as well as the people who live or work there. We are, as I say "...all up in your business". It is extremely important to ensure the organizer you refer to your co-worker, friend or family member meets these criteria:

• Non judgmental, compassionate and understanding
• Has a confidentiality policy
• Is a member of NAPO or ICD and adheres to the Code of Ethics of the organization
• Educated
• Trustworthy
• Insured

Even if the organizer meets all of the above criteria, it can be difficult to broach the subject. Here are a couple of scenarios or ideas to suggest the idea:

• If you recently heard about the profession of organizing: "Did you know that there is a professional organizer in town? I met her the other day and her job sounds so interesting!"
• If they are definitely interested, but aren't sure they can afford it, give him/her a gift certificate for organizing services to try it out.
• Try out our services yourself. Even if you are a fairly organized person, everyone has at least one area they could use help with. It's so much easier to say "I used this service, you should check it out!"
• Invite the friend to attend an Organizing Workshop with you. You can learn some organizing skills together and they might be inspired to make further changes.

One very important thing to remember before you refer someone is that they have to WANT help. They have to WANT to change. Just like referring an overweight friend to a gym won't help, neither will referring a chronically disorganized friend to an organizer. You cannot make someone do what they do not want to do.

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