A silent auction is a fundraiser that works by having a series of items on display, with each item having a bid sheet next to it. Bidders write down their name, contact details and the amount they are willing to pay for the item. At the end of the auction period, the bid sheets are collected, and the highest bidder for each item is contacted.
Many fundraisers prefer silent auctions because they can be less intimidating than live auctions. Bidders can take their time to think about their bid, and they don’t have to worry about being outbid by someone else in the room. Also, this type of auction is more efficient than live auctions.
Silent auctions can be used to sell more than one item at a time. Bidders can simply write down their bid for each item on a separate piece of paper and submit it to the auctioneer.
What Items Are Commonly Used at Silent Auctions?
Typically, these are the most commonly used auction items in silent auctions.
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Store or Restaurant Gift Certificates
One of the most famous silent auction items is store or restaurant gift certificates. Gift certificates tend to have a high perceived value, so they often fetch reasonable prices at these auctions.
If you’re thinking of donating or using gift certificates for a silent auction, choose a popular store or restaurant that will appeal to a wide range of people. It’s also a good idea to get a certificate with no expiration date, so the winner can use it whenever they want.
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Tickets
Tickets can be for anything from a sporting event to a show or concert and are a popular choice for silent auctions. They usually have a high value and can be donated by businesses or individuals. When choosing the tickets offered in an auction, it is essential to pick something that will appeal to various groups of people to get the most bids.
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Hotel Accommodation
Hotel accommodation are a popular auction item because they offer a unique experience that the whole family can enjoy. Many hotels offer weekend stays, so this is an excellent option for those seeking a getaway.
The majority of auction items related to travel are always popular because they offer the opportunity to explore new places. You can also find auction items that include dinner and breakfast at the hotel so you can enjoy a nice meal there.
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Electronics
This can be anything from tablets and laptops to televisions and sound systems. One of the reasons why electronic items are so popular is because they usually have a high value. Many people are willing to bid more for them, which raises more money for the event or cause.
What Are the Most Popular Silent Auction Items?
There can be a wide selection of silent auction items for a fundraiser that can be a hit. Unfortunately, not all items can attract bidders to participate in the event and place their bids. At Helping Hand Group, the most popular ones include the following.
- Artworks
- Experience packages
- Massage and spa
- Indulgence
- Food and beverage
- Fashion
- Adventure
- Holiday packages
- Jewellery and watches
- Memorabilia
- Sports
- Historical
- Music
How Can You Conduct a Silent Auction?
Silent auctions are proven effective in helping fundraisers raise money to finance their organisations and cause. The good thing about this type of auction is that it can be conducted using DIY methods. You can do extensive research on how it’s done and then source the equipment needed and assemble a team who will handle the essential procedures the event needs.
However, if you decide to organise an event on your own, you will most likely spend most of your time ensuring that all the necessary preparations and logistics are completed. Unfortunately, these tasks are usually stressful. Thus, it would help if you had much patience to push the event through.
Aside from that, a silent auction can also be conducted by hiring the service of companies who specialise in helping non-profit organisations organise this type of fundraiser. These companies employ a team of experienced professionals proficient in handling and conducting almost all types of auctions. For example, you have no idea where or how to ask for silent auction items, these group auction services can help.
Also, these companies are equipped with all the necessary equipment needed for the event.
Given that the outcome of the auction that your group needs to raise funds is at stake, it is best to hire a reputable service provider like the Helping Hand Group. Our team has helped thousands of clients raise the funds they need through live and silent auctions.
Helping Hand Group Auction Services: Lending You a Helping Hand
We, at the Helping Hand Group, offer a long list of in-demand auction items. We use our own electronic silent auction system dubbed the Ballot Bidding program to help you raise funds needed for your group’s special cause.
We also provide auction items on a consignment basis to ensure that these will not consume your event’s budget. Our friendly staff will handle all the displays in your event and are responsible for managing the auctions, taking care of the payments and removing and shipping the sold items. Contact us today to learn more.