When it comes to benefit auctions, some think bigger crowds are always better. Perhaps. But there is one distinct DISadvantage of a larger crowd -- it's harder to find a good benefit auctioneer. When you're interviewing auctioneers, find out how many events he or she has overseen with your same guest count. In other words, if you have 400 attendees, ask how many galas he or she is running in that size. Just because an auctioneer has the personality to work an event of 200 guests does not mean ... Read On >
Audience Development
VIDEO: Tips to reduce no-shows at your benefit auction
It's disheartening to work so hard, only to have empty tables at your gala. And no-shows certainly don't help your auction returns. In this video, learn some benefit auction tips for reducing no-shows. We want one seat in every chair! ;) Watch the video below. ... Read On >
VIDEO: Celebrity Charity – Enlisting Stars to Your Cause
Do you dream of having that perfect celebrity spokesperson attend your gala, support your cause, and articulate your mission to the masses? Here are some pointers on where to start when it comes to celebrity charity. Watch the video below. ... Read On >
PODCAST: Who should you invite to your auction: men or women?
A new study has been released that compares the giving patterns of men versus women. Based on the data, should you start changing your invitation list? Find out in this podcast. Listen to the podcast below. ... Read On >
Men versus women: Who makes the BEST guest at benefit auctions?
An interesting report was released a few months ago examining male and female giving patterns. I was eager to read it, hoping it might point to some new ideas in who should be on the guest lists for our benefit auctions. Here's the background. In October 2010, The Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University released its first report called "Women Give 2010." It reported differences in giving to charity between male and female single-headed households across income levels. (Remember, this ... Read On >