Welcome to a new series of blog posts showcasing the talents and journeys of some of my training graduates. I’m pleased to put the spotlight on Joey Camilleri from Creating Positive Spaces in Melbourne. I asked Joey a bunch of questions. Here they are with his responses. He has some great advice for anyone starting out as an organiser.
Tell me Joey, who do you work with?
I work with clients living with Chronic Disorganisation. Some of the clients I work with are living with ADHD, PTSD, Autism and MS. I enjoy working with clients to organise their homes or offices. I also assist clients in organising their digital content (e,g, computers). I also have a soft spot for establishing paperwork systems.
What drew you to the organising industry, and how long have you been in it?
I have always loved to organise and love the satisfaction of living and working in an organised space. While exercise and diet play a role in our health and wellness, I believe that the environment plays a role also. I wanted to take my talent for organising to assist people to improve their wellbeing. I’ve been working in the industry for about five years (three years part time and two years full time).
What was the pivotal moment for you starting out as an organiser?
Attending an Australasian Association of Professional Organisers (AAPO) meeting back in 2016.
I wanted to start my professional organising business ten years prior; however, I struggled to find anyone doing it in Australia, so I put my professional organiser dream on hold and took my career on a different path. When I discovered AAPO in 2016, I saw that a successful professional organising business was possible.
But more importantly, it was the support of other POs that played a pivotal role in me becoming a professional organiser. The guidance and expertise that other POs provided me gave me the courage to launch my professional organising business. Sadly, AAPO doesn’t exist anymore. However, I’m still in contact with many of the former members through the Professional Organisers of Melbourne group, which has continued to support my professional organising business.
What’s your favourite thing about organising?
Being able to change clients lives. Many of my clients often feel stuck, and through our work, they can start moving forward. I love that I’m giving my clients back control over their life and space.
What is one habit that helps your own life run smoothly?
One of my core habits is spending an hour on a Friday to review my to-do list and calendar and plan for the following week. This habit helps me to stay on top of my tasks, reduce overwhelm and stay in control.
To what do you attribute your success as an organiser?
The number one thing that contributes to my success as an organiser is investing time in my personal development. While I consider myself naturally organised, it wouldn’t have been enough to succeed as an organiser. I learnt very quickly that professional organising is not solely about the stuff and is more about the person. I have invested time in understanding what factors contribute to disorganisation and how I may be able to assist my clients
What would you say to someone just starting as an organiser?
- Invest in personal development (Angela is always a great start). [Thanks Joey!]
- Listen to your gut.
- Let go of perfection – your business will evolve, so things don’t need to be perfect from the start. Yes, planning is essential, but so is action.
- Connect with the organising community; your competitors are your greatest allies based on my experience in this industry.
- Know your boundaries and stick to them.
Is there something else you think people should know?
Professional organising is a great industry, and the organising community is a great one to be part of, not just in Melbourne but globally. I’ve had some great opportunities both in Australia and internationally.
Thanks Joey. I think you’re spot on there.
For anyone interested in launching their own professional organising career, take a look at my online training.
