What is virtual organizing? It is exactly as it sounds – working on decluttering and organizing tasks over the phone or via a video platform using a phone, tablet or computer. Though the professional organizer is not on site, the procedure is the same as in person: set goals, sort, declutter, organize, and maintain systems in your home. The professional organizer still provides motivation, focus, accountability, guidance, and encouragement at a distance. Here are the benefits, responsibilities and expectations. (Click on Read More to continue.)

(... with a coaching organizer.)
 
1. improve self-discovery and awareness
A coaching organizer uses coaching skills to help you learn about yourself. Through the transformative coaching process you realize your strengths, resources, goals and life values. You come to a new awareness of how to handle the issue at hand, whether it is a decision, problem, or roadblock, that keeps you from successfully decluttering.
 
2. ensure organizing tasks are aligned with life goals
The coaching organizer partners with you to ensure that your decluttering decisions align with your life goals and values. 
​(Click on Read More to continue)

We now offer the empowering techniques of coaching as part of our organizing services.
 
What is coaching?
Basically coaching is a guided conversation with the purpose of effecting change. According to the International Coach Federation website, coaching is the partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. A coach encourages clients' self-discovery, believes  clients are  experts in their own lives, and holds clients accountable. Some techniques that a coach uses are: partnering, active listening, powerful questioning, and endorsing a client’s strengths. The coach helps clients dig deeper to uncover their unique perspectives. Organizing coaching topics include: exploring goals, getting unstuck, working on motivation, resolving a decision or simply gaining clarity on an organizing issue. Coaching makes the difference!
 
How is coaching integrated into organizing?
Coaching is often used up front to clarify goals and to explore a client’s motivation for change. During a session, coaching ensures that  progress aligns with the client's goals. When a client reaches a roadblock during an organizing session, coaching is effective to explore and resolve the issue expeditiously. Following a session, coaching is used to evaluate progress, acknowledge success and establish future actions. Coaching is equally productive in the hands-on situation or in virtual sessions.
 
Is coaching for you?
​You never know until you try it. Inquire about our complimentary coaching call. You will be surprised at how empowering coaching can be!

Consider what this person will be doing in your home. She may be sorting/filing financial records, legal papers and vital documents. She may be handling your prized possessions. She may be organizing personal and/or medical information.  She may be getting to know you as a means to better help you reach your goals. She may be interacting with family members. Therefore, you must feel comfortable with this person and trust her. Here is what you can do to find the right match.
 
Where to look?
Online search - Word of mouth - Attend a free presentation - Visit NAPO.net, the official website for the National Association of Professional Organizers - Visit FindMyOrganizer.com, many listed companies pay for leads
 
What to look for?
Keep “professional” in mind as you search. Interview a few to get a sense of their philosophy, personality, policies, cost, experience, specialties and qualifications.
 
What questions to ask?
Is your potential professional organizer a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers? All members are expected to uphold the guidelines set forth in the NAPO Code of Ethics, which include (paraphrased in my words):
 
treating every client and their belongings with respect
working within his/her area of qualification
keeping client information confidential
recommending products that are in the clients’ best interest
 
What else to investigate? In my opinion, a truly professional organizer will:
carry liability and personal injury insurance
work under a contract or working agreement that clarifies expectations
provide a free phone and/or in-home consultation to ensure a good match between client and organizer
provide testimonials from past clients
have a clear pricing policy
not request to be paid only in cash
help you explore your goals
ask pertinent questions about your organizing style, history, family dynamics
 
Call a few professional organizers. Interview them, ask questions, and share your story. In your search be aware of all of the above suggestions but don’t overlook how you feel about someone. She may not have all of the above characteristics, but her personality may be perfect for you.