Since starting my company over a decade ago, I've observed several types of bidders. In this post, I'm describing my live auction bidder archetypes.These are a tad tongue-in-cheek.Even so, I suspect you'll recognize some of your guests from among these descriptions.(In my next two posts, I'll zero in on two archetypes -- Deal Makers and Players.)Remember that most guests at your gala are not going to participate in the live auction. Usually just 10% to 20% of your crowd is ... Read On >
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Selling better sex and other awkward fundraising auction donations
These are real fundraising auction donations that have been sold by nonprofits.Vasectomy Vaginal tightening Various cosmetic surgery, cosmetic procedures, and diagnostics (e.g. injections, tummy tucks, impotence evaluation) Fertility treatment (IVF)I'm fairly certain that every donation received made the gala chair wince, followed by a "How am I going to sell this" moment.Though I have sold these types of donations in live auctions, they don't belong there. First, ... Read On >
Classy example of sharing an auction dress code
Last Saturday I worked a school auction in the Washington National Cathedral. The dress code was "Cathedral Dress."Though I've been to the Cathedral many times, I've worn everything from shorts (as a tourist) to a dress (for an organ concert). I wasn't exactly sure what was appropriate to this event, so I asked.I learned that it could be cocktail, but nothing too flashy or bright. Sort of a “business cocktail.”Dress codes are important; you want everyone to be comfortable, and most ... Read On >
Best time to close the silent auction? Before the live auction begins.
Human psychology factors into fundraising auctions in many ways.The fear of loss propels a bidder to bid. Smart pricing strategies in a raffle influence how many tickets will be sold. Properly structured silent auction bid sheets generate 10% to 30% higher sales. Well-written auction donation request letters secure more "yes" responses than "no" responses. Using a proper method to properly close a silent auction generates higher sales on the most popular items. (E.G. Create an ... Read On >
Tips for associations running annual conference auctions
This spring I'm on the road working with three association clients holding fundraising auctions at their annual conference.Two associations are comprised of individual members (one in the insurance industry; the other in disaster recovery). The third client is an association for hospice organizations to join.Conference auctions are a different breed. They certainly aren't similar to school auctions, and they really aren't like standard nonprofit auctions, either.Let's dive deeper ... Read On >