Important questions to consider when interviewing an auction company.
Experience & Expertise
How many years of experience do you have as an auctioneer?
Can you provide references or examples of past auctions you’ve conducted?
Licensing and Credentials:
Are you licensed as an auctioneer in this state?
Are you a member of any professional auctioneer associations?
Do you have any additional certifications or training in auctioneering?
Marketing and Promotion:
How do you plan to market and promote the auction?
What advertising channels do you utilize
(online, print, social media, etc.)?
Can you provide examples of successful marketing campaigns from previous auctions?
Auction Strategy:
How do you determine the appropriate starting bids?
What’s your approach to generating bidding excitement and competition among attendees?
How do you handle different types of bidding (live, online, absentee, etc.)?
Technology and Tools:
Do you offer online bidding options for remote participants?
What technology do you use for bid tracking and management during the auction?
How do you handle any technical issues that may arise during the auction?
Fees and Costs:
What are your fees and how are they structured?
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of (marketing, setup, equipment rental, etc.)?
Can you provide a breakdown of the costs associated with the auction?
Contract and Terms:
Can you provide a written contract that outlines the terms of the auction, including fees, responsibilities, and timeline? What’s your policy on cancellations or rescheduling?
References and Reviews:
Can you provide references from previous clients or attendees?
Do you have online reviews or testimonials I can check?
Availability and Communication:
How often will you communicate with me throughout the planning process and on the day of the auction? What’s the best way to reach you if I have questions or concerns?
Insurance and Liability:
Do you have liability insurance that covers potential accidents or damages during the auction?
How do you handle any disputes or issues that may arise during the auction?
Understanding of Your Needs:
Can you tailor the auction strategy to my specific goals and preferences?
How do you ensure that the auction aligns with my objectives?
Professionalism and Presentation:
How do you present yourself and your team during the auction?
What’s your approach to engaging the audience and creating a positive atmosphere?
By asking these questions and discussing your expectations with potential auctioneers, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and choose the right auctioneer for your needs