The spotlight today is on Kate Martin, owner of Organized Joy and creator of the Joyful Business Planner. A Professional Organizers Blog Carnival Star Blogger, Kate specializes in helping families, small businesses, and especially families who run small businesses, in the Austin, TX area as well as virtually worldwide.

Kate, how did you come up with your business name?

I brainstormed a huge list of names that seemed pretty generic. Then I focused on how I wanted my clients to feel and hit upon “Organized Joy” after that. Even if I change the direction of my business in the future, I will always want them to feel joyful.

How has your business changed since you first started out?

I worked for another Professional Organizer for two years, then started my business with a partner for 1 1/2 years, and now I’ve been running everything on my own for almost three years. It’s changed a lot!

I’ve also gone from strictly residential clients to both residential and business. Plus I’ve written three books and created physical products for my clients after I realized that what they needed didn’t exist.

Other than hands-on organizing, what services or products do you offer?

I teach workshops, host organizing parties, and speak at events, conferences, meetings and businesses. I also sell books I’ve written for disorganized entrepreneurs as well as filing kits for families and business owners.

Do you offer any products or services for other organizers?

I sell books I’ve written and file kits I’ve created for families and small business owners. I’ve had other organizers buy them for their clients and to use in their own business.

At what moment did you consider yourself successful?

The same week that I published my first book, I was selected to be a speaker at the NAPO 2017 Conference. Both events coinciding made me feel like the expert that I always knew I could be. So many opportunities happened because of that week and they are still rippling out into my business today.

What would you do differently if you were starting your business today?

I would “go for it” much more. I tend to get stuck in analysis paralysis and overthink blogs, website updates, and many business decisions way too much. In the beginning I worried about being professional and perfect so much so that I hid my own personality.

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve discovered about running an organizing business?

I am always surprised at what resonates with my clients and social media followers. Sometimes I write a blog, repost an article or speak at a meeting about something (I think) is life changing. People will comment or tell me later on that they didn’t hear that part at all. But the tiny, unplanned, throwaway remark I made or wrote was the spark that made them finally understand how to get organized. It’s changed how I deliver my deep thoughts – I use a lot of humor, repeat myself often in several different ways, and try to listen to their questions from every possible angle.

What is the biggest challenge you currently face in your business?

I have trouble delegating responsibility to others when it comes to my business, even though I promote doing just that to my clients (shh, don’t tell anyone). I’m in a position currently where I need to either be happy to stay the same size or scale up by getting help. Just this week I hired a company to help market my books so my fingers are crossed that I’m on the right path.

What’s your favorite organizing product? Why?

Without a doubt, my favorite organizing product is my label maker. I have several in fact, but my beat up, old and trusty, Brother P-Touch label maker is my favorite. I have been labeling since before I knew what a Professional Organizer was and I don’t plan on stopping any time soon. Don’t be surprised to see all my light switches labeled in my home – my addiction is that serious.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I have young children (two boys) and I run another business on the side with my husband, who also works full time. So after soccer practice, homework, grocery shopping, and networking meetings, I like to turn my computer off, shut down my phone and sleep. Oh and eat – I like doing that, too.

In about five years I hope to find time for movies and crafting and long walks again.

What professional associations or other organizations do you belong to?

I belong to NAPO and I’m an active member of NAPO Austin where I’ve been the Secretary for several years. I’m also a Certified Professional Organizer® and a Certified Art Teacher.

Thank you so much for sharing all this great information, Kate!

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