Some of our most frequently asked questions
While every event is unique, we tend to get many similar questions when first working with new clients. If you're just starting your research, here's a great place to start.
Is it worth hiring a professional
Often times, organizations believe they can save money by enlisting the “free” help of an volunteer auctioneer. In reality, this could end up costing you greatly. While a volunteer may have a top-notch announcer’s voice and be charismatic on the microphone, the opportunity for raising increased bids will likely be missed because auction experience level just isn’t there.
How soon should we book auctioneering and/or consulting services with JSL Auctions
Book early! Peak benefit auction months run February through May, and September through November. If your event falls within this timeline, be sure to contact us early to lock in your auction event on our calendar.
What is a Fund-A-Need?
A Fund-a-Need creates an opportunity for all guests to participate during the live auction. During this time, we invite folks to donate to your organization at a level that's meaningful to them as if they were bidding on a typical auction item - except that everyone wins and everyone's bids are collected. At JSL Auctions, we do this in a tactful, emotionally inspiring way. We are here to help you design the right Fund-A-Need, delivered at the right time, to help your organization meet it’s goals for your immediate funding needs.
What are the sound requirements for an auction?
Simply put, if your donors cannot hear, they will not bid.
It is best to use a professional, third party, audio/visual company that uses a surround-sound approach for your auction. Because the ambient noise in a room changes radically between sound check and auction time, a sound professional should be ready at their soundboard to troubleshoot any issues that arise.
If your Silent Auction is being held in a separate room, it will require a separate sound system. Quality sound is imperative to run a successful auction- skimping on it is not worth the risk.
Please note that the overhead "house” system at a hotel or many other venues is most often NOT adequate to conduct a live auction.