Why hybrid galas make guest interaction hard (auctioneer’s perspective)

In June 2021 during the complementary conversation, “The Future of School Auctions,” the following question was posed.

Sherry, in a recent conversation, you were skeptical that – as an auctioneer – you could address both an in-person and virtual audience.  Do you have any additional thoughts on this, or how do you manage it?

In the below clip from the event you’ll hear my response.  I think it’s tricky to be equally engaging to both audiences during a hybrid gala, and a 50% effort to each audience doesn’t add up to a 100% performance.

I’m hopeful that as we develop new ideas, my skills will improve and both in person and virtual audiences will be served in a way that feels personal to them.