Do your guests fall in love with you at your benefit auction?

Fundraising auctions provide an extraordinary platform for cultivation.

Even in this challenging economy, I have witnessed amazing success stories. Do you know the #1 factor of auction success in this new economy? Engage your audience emotionally in how you make a difference. Your guests will bid more if they are passionately connected with your great cause.

Do you want to learn more in-depth techniques to rivet your guests and ignite giving at your next auction? Please join me for my new Boston workshop on March 17th: “Integrate Events into your Dynamic Fundraising Plan”

Many people are giving generously, but to fewer organizations.

Remember, your auction guests are a captive and receptive audience. Now is the best time to deepen your relationships with your guests by sharing your passion. Design your auction to enthusiastically focus on your mission and invite support.

Here are some tips to optimize fundraising and engage your auction guests:

• On all promotional materials, clearly state where the funds are going and how they can make a difference.
  
• Make a new rule: Everyone who makes remarks must say why they love your cause and ask others to support you.
  
• Include an inspirational Fund-A-Need.
  
• Thank and provide feedback to your donors immediately.
  
• Follow up with all your giving friends.
  
• Don’t obsess on the color or your table napkins
  
• Participate in our workshop.

Let’s capture the spirit of the heart and make Auction Day Valentine’s Day year round.

“Be the change you want to see in the world.”
~ Mahatma Gandhi

“If auction attendees can not hear, they will not buy.”

This key lesson from my auction school bears even more truth today. “Benefit Auction Quality Sound” is absolutely critical to raise maximum money at your fundraising auction. As you continue to evaluate your event expenses, know that contracting a professional sound company is a solid investment for your auction success.

Here’s why: To raise money and awareness about your cause, absolutely, every single guest must be able to hear clearly at BOTH the silent and live auction. Remember, fundraising auctions produce lots of extra noise with guests talking and dishes clanking etc.

Hiring a professional sound company is even more important when you factor in your Fund a Need. Remember, there are potential donors all over the room who will participate ONLY if they can hear and become engaged in your special appeal. We want them riveted to the inspiring emotional testimonials about your great cause. Benefit Auction Quality Sound makes it possible to get those bid cards waving!

Here’s how to avoid a common mistake and not to lose money really fast. DO NOT rely on the venue’s built-in house sound system, band or a DJ sound system – none of these are acceptable for your fundraising auction.

Maximize your Revenue!

• Hire a professional sound company
• Get several written proposals
• Require a sound technician for the entire event
• Schedule a sound check 3 hours prior to doors opening
• Insist on plenty of quality speakers on stands
• Surround your audience with speakers
• And, remember sound for your Silent Auction too