How to become a workplace organizer

Is becoming a workplace organizer right for me?

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Overview
What do workplace organizers do?

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How to become a Workplace Organizer

The job of a workplace organizer is both practical and strategic, blending creativity, efficiency, and psychology. Here’s an overview of the pathway to the career:

Educational Requirements and Options
There is no strict degree requirement to become a workplace organizer, but certain educational backgrounds are advantageous:

  • Business Administration – Provides knowledge of organizational structures and management principles
  • Office Management – Offers practical skills in running efficient workplaces
  • Interior Design – Useful for space planning and ergonomic considerations
  • Management Information Systems – Focuses on handling data and documents effectively
  • Psychology – Helps in understanding behavioral aspects of organization and productivity

Short courses in project management, ergonomics, and digital tools are also highly beneficial.

Steps in the Process
Becoming a workplace organizer typically involves the following steps:

  • Develop Core Skills – Build expertise in time management, workflow design, and decluttering methods.
  • Gain Experience – Start with internships, administrative roles, or volunteer opportunities to organize offices.
  • Build a Portfolio – Document before-and-after case studies of organized spaces to showcase your abilities.
  • Network – Connect with businesses, coworking spaces, and professional associations to find opportunities.
  • Consider Certification – Enhance credibility with recognized credentials.

Certifications and Professional Organizations
While you can work in workplace organizing or start a business in the field without one, a certification demonstrates proven competency and ethical commitment. Joining professional organizations provides valuable opportunities for networking and continuing education.

  • Certified Professional Organizer (CPO) – The CPO, awarded by the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers (BCPO), is the industry’s most respected, globally recognized credential. To earn it, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and 1,000 to 5,000 hours of paid organizing work experience accumulated within the five years prior to application. In addition, they must pass a comprehensive standardized exam and agree to adhere to the BCPO code of ethics. To maintain their CPO designation, they are required to pay an annual fee and to recertify every three years through either continuing education hours or retaking the exam.
  • Trained Professional Organizer (TPO) – The Professional Organizers in Canada (POC) awards this credential to individuals who complete their structured education program.
  • Certificates from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD) – The ICD offers various certificates and a CPO-CD (Certified Professional Organizer – Chronic Disorganization) certification for those specializing in chronic disorganization and related challenges like hoarding and ADHD.
  • Lean Six Sigma Certification – Various organizations, including the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) and the American Society for Quality (ASQ), offer this certification, which focuses on workflow optimization and process improvement and efficiency using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Productivity and Leadership Certifications – Various programs are available online.
  • Digital Organization Certifications – Training in tools like Microsoft 365, Trello, Asana, or Notion can be helpful.
  • National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO) – NAPO is dedicated to helping people and organizations bring order and efficiency to their lives. Its mission is to be the leading source for organizing and productivity professionals by providing education, enhancing business connections, advancing industry research, and increasing public awareness.
  • Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers (APDO) – This membership association provides training and a strong professional community for organizers and declutterers working in the UK.
  • International Facility Management Association (IFMA) – This association is relevant for organizers working in corporate facilities.

The Growing Importance of Workplace Organizers
The demand for workplace organizers is increasing due to several trends:

  • Hybrid Work Models – As employees split time between home and office, organizers help maintain consistency and efficiency.
  • Digital Overload – With the explosion of emails, files, and apps, digital organization is more critical than ever.
  • Employee Wellbeing – Organized workplaces reduce stress and improve morale.
  • Sustainability – Organizers often help companies reduce waste and adopt eco-friendly practices.