Every auctioneer understands just how much pressure their work can have at times, especially when you have goals that almost feel intimidating. Running a non-profit auction is even more challenging since it involves more than selling items. It’s also about inspiring people, connecting them to your mission, and helping them feel good about giving.
But the last thing you want to do is give up or even feel intimidated by the task ahead. Here are some tips to help you make it a success.
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1. Tell the Story (And Do It Passionately)
One of the biggest levers you have as an auctioneer in any fundraiser event is engaging storytelling. So, whenever you introduce an item, you need to go beyond just saying what it is. Instead, frame why it matters. Make sure to tie each item to the organisation’s mission. Reminding the audience exactly what their donation supports is a perfect way to connect emotional engagement to giving.
Use the marketing tips you learnt in your auction license Texas course to give people more reasons to bid generously. One of the most effective tips is using brief but vivid anecdotes like “This trip was donated by a long-time supporter who…” or “Every dollar from this will go to…’, and similar short narratives that make people see the impact of their giving.
2. Create a Buzzworthy Experience
You should also consider generating excitement leading up to your auction. At the moment, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are a perfect tool for that. But don’t underestimate the power of email newsletters and local media to share teasers about the event.
Make sure to touch on the most incredible auction items that will be in the event. Success stories and the positive change that the organisation in question brings to the world will also draw more people in. And while the organisation you will be auctioning for will also market the event, it’s still a good idea to be part of the marketing as it helps you to start the audience engagement process at the earliest point.
3. Work With a Balanced Item Mix
Not all auction items have to be big-ticket. In truth, a smart mix will maximise your fundraising and keep the excitement alive. So, focus on a handful of high-value, one-of-a-kind items to trigger the excitement. Then, supplement with mid-tier and smaller items to maintain the balance, so more people find something they want to bid on.
You should also consider “buy now” options for high-demand items, where people pay a set price. This boosts the overall vibrancy since your audience won’t know what to expect. At the same time, it gives the donors a variety of ways to give generously.
4. Leverage Mobile Bidding and Auction Software
Mobile bidding is becoming a game-changer in these events. You should, therefore, consider dedicated auction platforms that offer tools for mobile bidding, real-time updates, and seamless checkout processes. That way, your audience will have the flexibility of bidding right from their phones, even as this simplifies logistics and saves time.
What’s more, it enhances the experience as people know, with greater ease, whenever they’ve been outbid. As an auctioneer, remember you are the leader of the event, so call out mobile bidding options to guests in an appealing way, and you’ll see how effortlessly that convinces them to take action.
5. Always Follow Up With Gratitude and Transparency
Even after the gavel falls, your work as an auctioneer still matters. So, be sure to express your genuine gratitude by taking a moment at the end to acknowledge the bidders, donors, and volunteers. What’s more, be sure to share the results of the event by presenting how much the audience raised, and what the funds will do.
Also, encourage the organisation to send follow-up communication and impact stories to the audience, as this goes a long way in fostering donor loyalty. When people feel appreciated and know where their money went, they are more likely to return countless times.
Start Your Auctioneer Journey Today
Running a non-profit auction can be challenging, but the experience it offers and the results it delivers are very much worth the effort. The best auctioneers know that this is more than calling bids. They understand that they have to weave in mission, emotion, and energy in every call so people will feel the urge to give generously.
If this sounds like something you’d like to give a try, now is the time to head over to rocketcert.com to take your pre-licensing course and be part of big changes in your community and beyond that.
