What are some of the best practices for collaborating with other professional organizers on projects?

1 Establish clear roles and responsibilities

Before you start working on a project with another organizer, make sure you have a clear agreement on who will do what, when, and how. Define the scope, timeline, budget, and deliverables of the project, and assign specific tasks and roles to each organizer. For example, you may decide that one organizer will handle the initial consultation, another will design the organizing plan, and another will oversee the implementation and follow-up. Communicate your roles and responsibilities clearly to each other and to the client, and document them in writing.

3 Respect each other's expertise and style

One of the benefits of collaborating with other organizers is that you can learn from each other and leverage each other's strengths. However, this also means that you may have different approaches, methods, or preferences for organizing. Instead of judging or criticizing each other's style, respect and appreciate the diversity and value that each organizer brings to the project. Be open to new ideas and suggestions, and adapt to the needs and preferences of the client and the project. If you have any disagreements or conflicts, try to resolve them respectfully and professionally.

4 Share resources and feedback

Another way to enhance your collaboration is to share resources and feedback with each other. For example, you may share useful tools, tips, contacts, or referrals that can help each other with the project or with your own business. You may also exchange feedback on each other's work, performance, or skills, and offer constructive criticism or praise. Sharing resources and feedback can help you improve your quality, efficiency, and satisfaction as organizers, and build trust and rapport with each other.

5 Join professional associations and networks

One of the best ways to find and connect with other organizers who are interested in collaborating is to join professional associations and networks. These can provide you with opportunities to network, learn, and grow as an organizer, and to access resources, support, and recognition. For example, you may join the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO), which offers education, certification, events, and referrals for organizers. You may also join local or online groups or communities that cater to your niche, specialty, or interest as an organizer.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?