The fall auction season is upon us, and with that comes a variety of

fundraising galas and events. We have one this weekend, one the following

weekend, and at least four in October (that I know of!). In most cases the

live auction portion of the evening is the largest money generator of the

event. This is where it pays to hire someone who knows what they're doing.

Last fall Barb, Shawn and I took a Benefit Auction Specialist course in

Cincinnati. We learned many exciting and different approaches to use for

fundraising auctions, and some very valuable tips for those holding a

charity event. I've listed some pointers below - Why Should You Hire A

Professional Auctioneer For Your Fundraiser;

Some may think that anyone with a strong voice and a sense of humour can

lead an auction. Development professionals know that a professional

auctioneer, especially one who specializes in fundraising makes a huge

difference to the success and tempo of the evening.

Using a volunteer celebrity, parent, friend of the organization or media

personality, as an auctioneer may actually be the most expensive cost of

your entire event. Event organizers may not hesitate to pay for

entertainment, food and beverages or decorator services. Hiring a

professional auctioneer is an investment that will net more revenue for

non-profit organizations.

The trained professional auctioneer can read your audience, initiate a

healthy competitive spirit, and move the bids along for maximum value. By

setting a fast pace and using a quick wit, a professional auctioneer creates

an entertaining, successful evening that increases profits where guests are

pleased to return year after year.

A professional auctioneer can help take the risk out of fundraising by

generating more profit, awareness and excitement for nonprofit

organizations.

Professional auctioneers can also provide additional services such as

pre-auction planning, consulting, training, seminars, and auction check-in

and checkout services. Some also sell auction supplies and forms,

fundraising auction software and innovative auction technology and on-line

auctions.

How do you select a professional auctioneer? It’s important to interview

potential auctioneers. Ask about experience with fundraising auctions,

services provided and fees. View their website, talk with references and if

possible attend a benefit auction that he or she is conducting.

Organizations will want to select a professional auctioneer who will fit

well.

One of the fastest growing areas of the auction business, the benefit

auction specialty requires an understanding and appreciation of non-profit

fundraising. Professional auctioneers who specialize in fundraising

auctions are distinctively skilled and committed to working with

non-profits. Benefit auctioneers are dedicated to providing specialized

fundraising auction strategies that advance the mission of the non-profit

organization.

Professional auctioneers increase non-profit income and net the highest

yields on auction items. It’s important for non-profits to provide a fun

and entertaining event where they entice guests to feel good about "paying

more than the value" for a great cause.

A Touch of Class Auctions includes 3 full time award winning professional

auctioneers, we would be pleased to discuss our fundraising auction services

and fee structure with you.