I've read about limiting the items, but I've always worried that will make it too difficult for most families to bid. If we have enough other options, though, that works. We've had a few parent/child sign-up classes donated that we will do for set prices, so that is a good way to allow everyone to "win" something.
If you have more suggestions, I'm all ears. No more garage sale prices this year!
1 - If you are holding a silent auction, make sure you don't have too many packages! Estimate how many bid numbers you will have (generally, the estimated attendance divided by two), and shoot for no more than 40% of that number of packages to bid on. Example: 200 guests = 100 bid numbers; 40 items max. If someone wants to win an item, they will need to get in and bid for it competitively! If you have procured more items, group them into packages, or save them out for an online "clean-up" auction after the event.
2 - For the people who don't win any silent auction items, soak up their available budget with raffle tickets, signup parties, and a Wine Wall or similar fixed-price items. Make sure there is some way for the guest who only has $20 to spend, to spend all $20.
3 - In every communication you make, talk about the reason you are holding a fundraiser. Make that need as specific and tangible as you can. Remind everyone who comes that you are holding a fundraiser.
4 - If you want to avoid a bargain-hunting mindset, be mindful of how you decorate and set up the event - you want to position the event correctly in the guest's minds.
5 - Charge for admission - and charge more than a token amount. I see a lot of school auctions who price their tickets to be affordable for every family - but if you're really hoping to change the culture at your event, start by making it clear that your event itself is not a bargain ticket. It's a fundraiser. Make the ask for the money, and don't be shy about it.
Have you had any luck? I have been trying to research games we could play to try and raise the bids. The only thing I have found is the head and tail. I would love to hear any suggestions you might have found.
I do think we need to prepare our audience for what will be at the auction and that might open up the wallet a little more. As well as remind them what the money help with. It is too easy to forget.
Was disappointed last auction - lots of great items, but many went for garage sale prices. Trying to strategize on how to get better bids for our items this spring. Have talked to my committee about a "dare to pay full price" campaign, where we put anyone who pays full price or more for an item into an additional drawing where they have a chance to win some seats on the front row of the school spring program, a 2nd parking spot, extra gift cards that we have on hand, etc.
What has worked for you to increase bids? I'd appreciate any suggestions!
