I have been a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers since I started my business in 2006. Last week I attended my first organizing conference and I have to say I regret not making this a priority earlier in my career. The knowledge and friendships I took away this year was priceless.
Never have I seen such a giving community of colleagues. We all have our individual strengths and weaknesses. We come from different walks of life and have different goals for our businesses. After sharing a few days together I consider none of these people my competitors but my comrades.
I was amazed to see how far this organization has come over the past 25 years and I was inspired to be a part of the growth in the years to come. This industry has grown leaps and bounds and we all have one common goal and that is to spread the word about the value a professional organizer can bring when you need help simplifying your life or your business.
There was a common theme brewing amongst the attendees and that is “We are better together.” United we can continue to strengthen this industry and watch it thrive.
I learned tons at this conference but for me the one on one connections I made meant the world to me. There is nothing like being able to share ideas with someone who has walked in your footsteps. Here are a few of the great organizers I got to chat with.
I loved that I got to spend more time hanging out with a fellow blogging organizer Megan… her business is two years older than mine and she totally gets where I am. She encouraged me to take those next crucial steps in my business to help it grow.
I already had the opportunity to work with Geralin on Hoarders but we spent some more time chatting at conference. I know when I get to the point where I need a swift kick out of my comfort zone she will be the one I call.
Allison and Brandie taught a session on giving virtual teleclasses and they are both brilliant and inspirational in the creative department.
I joined in on breakfast with Elizabeth Hagen and she presented a session on offering package pricing. I got so many ideas from her but I truly wanted to see her speak. I love how she keeps her audience captivated.
Last but not least my Nashville peeps were there and we all got to let loose and learn more about each other… meet Lisa, Liz and Cindy. (I need to get some of these ladies blogging!)
And that is just to name a few.., I met so many great organizers! Together we are definitely better!
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Thanks for the kind words. It was a pleasure to meet and hang out with you! It was fun to put a face with a name. :) So, what idea are you putting into action first?
I will make this a priority myself. I recently started my business and have not yet joined NAPO. This is in the budget to do next month though. I can not wait to attend a conference and meet others that are like me :) Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience.
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