Why pay for an auctioneer? We’re a nonprofit; we don’t just have money to throw around.

It’s really this simple: when you want something done best, you hire a specialist. Yes, your Director of Development might be able to stand on stage and get some money out of your event attendees, but a professional auctioneer can get more. This isn’t one of those situations where “if you want something done right, do it yourself” works well. Instead, if you want your auction to have the highest yield, trust yourself to hire the right professional.

What’s involved in our initial consultation?

Our first conversation will be about 30 minutes long. We will talk about your goals for the event, specifically how much money you want to pull in, but also your non-financial goals. We’ll discuss what’s worked well for your past events and what hasn’t. Before we chat—in person or via Zoom—have as much of the following info ready as possible:

• Event date

• Ticket price

• Venue

• Number of people expected to attend

• How much your live auctions brought in in the last three years (if applicable)

• Your theme (if applicable)

What is a “paddle raise?”

Your “paddle raise,” sometimes called the “special appeal,” “live ask,” or “fund-a-need” is your donors’ opportunity to straight-up give. While it can be beneficial to include the right donation inducements, this isn’t the time where a donor expects to bid on something or get anything in return for financially supporting your organization. Done right, the paddle raise is the most inclusive and money-making moment of the party.

What’s a “bid assistant” and why should we hire pros instead of using volunteers?

Bid assistants are extensions of the auctioneer. These people are Auction Uncommon-trained to spot bidders, raise bidder interaction, effectively communicate with the auctioneer, and make the event more lucrative. Using Auction Uncommon’s bid assistants rather than using your organization’s volunteers end up meaning your event makes more money.

How long before our event date should we start looking to retain an auctioneer?

Now! Do it now. There isn’t a time that’s too soon to start reserving a date on your auctioneer’s calendar. Auction season tends to land in the spring and autumn seasons and those Friday, Saturday, and Sunday spots will get snagged up to a year and a half in advance. Reach out soon to hire the right mouthpiece for your event.