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
