Not all auctions are the same and not all auctioneers are they same, but if you’re planning a charity auction, there are a few things to look for in an auctioneer.
Live Auction Auctioneer
You want a fundraising event that is profitable and your guests want to be entertained. Now enter the auctioneer.
A great charity event auctioneer is equal parts entertainer and auctioneer. Many people might think getting a celebrity or well known personality to act as the auctioneer is a good idea. I on the other hand think that if you really want to increase your fundraising revenue you’ll get a pro. A professional auctioneer knows how to raise funds. They know how to mesmerize the crowd and get people bidding. Many pros donate their time depending on the charities cause. All it takes is you asking some local auction houses and galleries.
Here are some attributes that make for a great charity event auctioneer:
- Big personality that can control the crowd. You want the crowd focused on the auctioneer and the auction items so they stay engaged.
- Someone who does their homework. You don’t want them showing up 15 minutes before the event and winging it. Make sure you send your auction item descriptions, information about where the dollars raised will go, and an overview of the crowd to the auctioneer ahead of time so they can come to the event prepared.
- Unflappable. So many things can happen during a live event – the mic doesn’t work, a display isn’t ready, etc. A good auctioneer is able to roll with the punches and keep the event going and keep the fundraising dollars coming in.
Charity auctions are a great way to fundraise, but it takes a certain auctioneer to help you achieve your fundraising goals. Look for an auctioneer who will work with you to make your event memorable and profitable.
