Finding an auctioneer is easy. Finding the right auctioneer is game-changing.
Licensed auctioneers are a great asset to your event. Below are some common questions you may have about hiring an auctioneer for your event. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Adren with more questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Licensed auctioneers allow for an event to flow smoothly and effectively. Being able to garner excitement, advance pricing at the appropriate pace and keep the crowd engaged will bring the most monetary value to your event. These professionals have the experience and knowledge to push items to their limits while also respecting the crowd’s pocketbooks.
Ultimately, you get the most bang for your buck when you hire a licensed auctioneer:
- Make or break the flow of an auction
- Knowing how to advance the pricing and keep the crowd engaged
- Understands and reacts to the crowd
- Garner excitement
- No close ties to the event or crowd and able to push as needed - no preconceived notions
There are a few questions to ask yourself when you are searching for an auctioneer. Are they licensed? Having a license doesn’t indicate skill but it does indicate a strong commitment and desire to pursue auctioneering at an elite level. Do they come recommended? The auctioneer may come highly recommended or have testimonials on their site. Do your research and ask others about their experiences.
Lastly, chat with the auctioneer and see if you connect with them. Trust your instincts. Ideally, this will be an individual that you can build a relationship with and use annually at your event. Consistency is important for annual events as it allows both parties to connect with one another and become comfortable. If you are happy with your previous auctioneer then stick with him or her. If not, make a change but remember that consistency is ideal for your event.
- Are they licensed? - Having a license doesn’t mean you are better but it may show a stronger commitment and desire to be an auctioneer.
- Do they come recommended?
- The connection between you and the auctioneer. Are you comfortable with them? Trust your instincts.
- Consistency is important -- If you are happy with previous events then continue. If not, definitely make a change but know that consistency will help annual events. Everyone becomes more aware and connected to the group. The group becomes more comfortable with the auctioneer too.
There are many different price structures for paying an auctioneer. Some may charge a percentage which may be ideal for your event as it allows both to have ‘skin in the game.’ A good year or a slower year reflects on both parties. You can also negotiate a flat rate. This may take into account time, equipment, and additional spotters. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and know that a good auctioneer and team is going to make your money back. They will make the event fun and bring a level of excitement that encourages a good monetary return on items. Side note: event planners can also support this process. Many have go-to auctioneers that they trust and can make recommendations.
- Some auctioneers charge a percentage - which can be appropriate
- If you have a good year that shows - if you have an off year that also is balanced. Both have skin in the game.
- You can also negotiate a flat price
- If you have doubts - talk with the auctioneer and ask questions. Year one could help determine how to move forward and what is best for both parties.
- Again, a good auctioneer and team is going to make your money back. Make the event fun and bring a level of excitement to the event.
- Event planners can also support this process. Many have go-to auctioneers that they trust and can make recommendations.
- Communication and organization is important.
- Prior to, during the planning process you can determine what audio/PA system is needed. Many professional auctioneers may have this or be able to provide it for a fee.
- Communication and organization is important. As soon as it’s available - what are the items being sold, what should be expected from this crowd/spending habits, clearly defining realistic expectations and goals.
- Be paid that night or clearly define when to expect that.
- Clerking for the event is typically not provided.
- Issuing the buyer numbers, contact information, billing and collection.
For many of the same reasons you would hire a professional auctioneer, you should hire professional spotters. Many are auctioneers themselves or aspiring to be. That sort of knowledge and experience is beneficial in the flow of the event. The number of people and layout of the room determines the need for spotters. Generally, 100 people at the event would equate to 2 spotters. Then, one additional spotter per 50 additional people.
Remember: One extra bid that the spotter catches pays for that spotter!
The sooner the better. Ideally, an annual event would be booked year-over-year. Once that date is booked it is booked and the spring time calendar fills quickly. If an auctioneer is booked for your event, ask that auctioneer for a recommendation and they will likely send you to another great option!