What is a Professional Organizer?

Professional Organizers guide others in creating a more simplified life, aligned with how you want your space to look, feel, and function. An organizer supports and educates clients about sound organization principles, customizing approaches to those that suit the individual. Each person is unique in their priorities, preferences, and thinking styles, so techniques, processes, and systems are recommended to meet the needs of those involved. The goal is to transfer skills so that you can maintain the systems we put in place. Some clients request an occasional or annual refresher, while others need only a session or two to provide the assistance needed.

What is a Certified Professional Organizer®?

Certification is the gold standard in organizing. Certification required documenting at least 1,500 billable hours with clients within three years, passing a rigorous exam, and agreeing to abide by the BCPO® Code of Ethics. Only a small percentage of professional organizers have achieved the designation of Certified Professional Organizer®.

What if I'm embarrassed by the condition of my home?

This is a common concern. We're not here to judge but to problem-solve. Our homes should look lived in, since this is where life happens. Sometimes circumstances or life events have understandably led to situational disorganization, which did not exist before. We help you create a space that looks and feels comfortable, and that allows you to live the life you want.

Should I buy baskets, bins, and organizing supplies first?

Generally, it's best to wait. Often these are unnecessary and we can repurpose items you already have on hand. If items are needed, we will measure first to ensure that any purchases will fit into your space.

What takes place during a session?

We first view the space with you to discuss what works and what doesn't. We assess your space and the challenges, analyze underlying causes of disorganization, and listen to your ideas. This is a time to share your goals and visions for the area. We create a plan tailored to your budget and needs. Then, we dig in! We show you how to sort, minimize, and develop systems that result in an organized environment that you feel good in, and that functions well.

Do I need to be involved in the process?

Yes, your input is vital. We want the end result not to simply be attractive, but to work for you, in the way that you live and work in the space. While some tasks can be completed while you're working on another project or in a nearby room, we will confirm that the results are what you're wanting. By being involved in the process, you will learn skills that enable you to maintain the systems that we create.

What if I'm not naturally organized?

Not to worry, organization did not come naturally to me, either! I've worked hard to learn what works for me. Different approaches work best with different thinking styles, and you may have not yet learned what works best for you. Consider It Done directs, coaches, and empowers you to be able to organize on your own. Exploring and discovering is what keeps the process interesting!

Will you make me throw everything away?

No, that would not be respectful. We ask questions, make recommendations, and teach you how to choose what stays or what goes based on your lifestyle and goals. The decision of what to keep, donate, sell, or discard, is yours.

How long does it take and where do we start?

Each project is different; it depends on the size of the room, its current state, your motivation level, and how quickly you make decisions. Within three hours we generally can complete a small space such as a closet or small pantry. Larger areas such as an entire room, or areas that are very full, usually take longer. In can be helpful to start in the area where you feel most stressed, or the area where greater organization will significantly improve daily function. Some clients simply need help getting started, and then finish the work on their own. Others want assistance throughout the project. Either option is fine.

How are services billed?

With hands-on services, payment is collected at the end of each day's session. With virtual services, payment is required 24 hours in advance. Consider It Done accepts checks, cash, major credit cards, and payments through most payment transfer platforms such as PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle.

May I give the gift of organizing to a family member or friend?

You may, if it truly is a gift for them, rather than yourself. We want this to be something your loved one is wanting for themselves!

What areas do you serve?

Hands-on organizing services are offered in the Tri-Cities, Washington (Richland, Kennewick, Pasco) and nearby metro area. If you live outside these cities, please call to discuss your specific location. We may travel to your area, and offer virtual organizing services to individuals everywhere.

How do I get started?

If you have questions that have not been answered in this "frequently asked questions" section, or to schedule an organizing session, please call Consider It Done at 509-440-2035, or email us by clicking here.