Virtual Organizing maybe the Solution to your S.P.A.C.E.
For clients who wish to do the “hands on “organizing themselves I offer support services through virtual organizing. In order to keep the process simple only one room will be discussed at a time. There will be an initial session cost for each room to be organized.
Initial Session
The initial session costs $100.00. It consists of an intake conversation, about one space, over the phone or Skype or e-mail lasting about 15 minutes. It is followed by or at the same time, sharing with me a visual look at the space to be organized. The client can e-mail me pictures or can show me the space over Skype. If the client wishes, they can send me a description of their challenges. I will e-mail a plan of action to the client. After the client has studied the plan a question and answer conversation will occur to clarify the plan and establish a timeline for the project. This session will last about 15 minutes. Once a timeline has been established for the project one of two options may be selected.
Option 1
The client will work on the project and will e-mail me pictures or set up a Skype call as needed to help them solve problems, clarify the next step, receive storage suggestions or donation and recycling information. This system works well for people who manage their time well and are motivated to get the job done. The cost of option 1 is $10.00 for each half hour consultation requested by the client. A retainer of $30.00 is paid in addition to the initial session cost at the beginning of the job. Additional retainers can be purchased as needed.
Option 2
The client will e-mail me the day and time they will be working on the job. I will e-mail, Skype, text or call each hour to see what assistance they need in order to successfully complete the work scheduled for that day. This systems works well for people who are easily distracted or procrastinate in getting the space organized. The cost of option 2 is $5.00 for 5 minutes each hour. For example if the client is planning to work from 12:00-3:00 on the job then I will contact them at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and the cost of the session in $15.00. A retainer of $30.00 is paid in addition to the initial session cost at the beginning of the job. Additional retainers can be purchased as needed.
I can think of a lot of people who could benefit from this… those who can’t afford full-service organizing, those who live in remote communities, and those who just aren’t comfortable letting a stranger into their home. It’s wonderful what technology allows us to do these days!
As you mentioned being able to save money is a benefit. They can get the same expertise at a lower overall cost because they are doing some of the work themselves. Also being able to have shorter, more flexible sessions might appeal to some people. Most organizers have minimum session times for hands-on organizing, so with virtual organizing shorter sessions can be more manageable for some clients. Some clients are afraid of using technology but the organizer can help with master that challenge too.
Sounds like a great option of offer clients, Julie! What percentage of your business is virtual organizing? What is the most common amount of time purchased?
Virtual is a small part of my business which I am concentrating on growing. My packages are buy the room or task such as time management. They usually purchase one package and then 3 or 4 follow up sessions.