Why Certified Professional Organizers® are the Ultimate Problem Solvers
My journey into the professional organizing business began in 2021, following a successful 14-year career in corporate America. I was in search of a more balanced lifestyle that would allow me to prioritize both work and family. However, I was fully aware that this transition was not just a leisurely pursuit. I was determined to learn and grow in this industry, and I actively sought out organizations and credentials that could support my journey. This commitment to growth and learning has been a cornerstone of my career, and it continues to drive me in serving my clients.
I came across NAPO (National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals) and the local NAPO St. Louis chapter. Here I met individuals like Janine Adams from Peace of Mind Organizing, who has owned her business for 20 years! Janine, like a few others in the chapter at the time, held the Certified Professional Organizer® credential. As someone who values learning and holds herself to high standards, I aspired to earn this certificate to serve my clients.
So what is a Certified Professional Organizer®? From NAPO’s website: “ A Certified Professional Organizer® (CPO®) is a distinguished credential awarded by the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers (BCPO®), representing the highest standard in the organizing industry. CPOs have demonstrated extensive hands-on experience—typically 1,000 to 1,500 hours working with clients—and have passed a comprehensive exam covering organizing principles, ethics, and client care. This independent board certification signifies a commitment to professionalism, best practices, and ongoing education. When you hire a CPO®, you can trust that you are working with a proven expert who is dedicated to delivering effective, ethical, and personalized organizing solutions.”
After accumulating over 1500 paid hours working with clients, completing education courses, and passing a rigorous exam in February 2025, I am delighted to announce that How Neat! By Dana is now a Certified Professional Organizer® (CPO®). As Dana Gilgrist, a Certified Professional Organizer®, I am dedicated to providing my clients with exceptional service, backed by education and experience. My commitment to maintaining this credential includes completing 15 education units each year, allowing me to delve deeper into areas such as serving clients with ADHD. This dedication to ongoing education and best practices ensures that I am always equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques to serve you better.
Over the past few years, the professional organizing industry in St. Louis has experienced significant growth, reflecting a shift in people's perceptions of this valuable service. I firmly believe that the stigma around hiring home services, including professional organizers, is diminishing. Just as you would engage a lawn service or a cleaner, finding the right organizer is crucial. Credentials such as the Certified Professional Organizer® (CPO®) designation can serve as a reliable guide in this search. If you are in St. Louis, the NAPO St. Louis website is a great resource to find other organizers with the CPO® designation.