Heather Rogers, owner of Simply Organized, discusses how she has grown her business.

Key Takeaways

– Heather transitioned from medical sales to professional organizing, starting Simply Organized 14 years ago

– Key business lessons: importance of systems/processes, delegating, and understanding finances

– Health crisis reinforced need for business continuity planning and work-life balance

– Advice: Get proper contracts, deposits, and insurance; focus on building community within your team

Topics

Heather’s Business Journey

– Left medical sales job in 2008 to start Simply Organized

– Worked with career counselor to identify professional organizing as a career path

– Kept full-time job for 2 years while building business on nights/weekends

– Now has a team of 12 and offers services beyond just senior downsizing

Business Growth and Lessons

– Initially resistant to hiring help, realized importance of delegation

– Implemented operations manual and systems after attending business coaching

– Health crisis (6 months in ICU) proved value of systems—business continued without her

– Recent implementation of scheduling software saves ~10 hours/week

Mistakes and Learning Experiences

– Not getting deposits upfront led to payment issues with a client

– Being a “control enthusiast” initially hindered growth and work-life balance

– Undervaluing services and not fully understanding financials

Book and Speaking

– Authored “A Simplified Life” with anonymous client stories and organizing tips

– Uses book as platform for public speaking and reaching broader audience

Team Building and Culture

– Holds optional monthly meetings for independent contractors to build community

– Shifted from micromanagement to trust-based leadership style

– Importance of clear communication and expectations with team

Next Steps

– Implement proper contracts, deposits, and insurance if not already in place

– Consider reading “The Generosity Mindset” by John Ray for pricing strategy

– Regularly meet with mentors/advisors to improve financial literacy and business acumen

– Continue evolving systems and processes to improve efficiency and scalability