In our article today, we hope to expand on the “lending a hand” component of auctioneers helping auctioneers.
For purposes of our discussion, let’s say that Terry is having an auction. At the last minute, his assisting auctioneer becomes unavailable, so Terry calls Bob to see if he can assist.
Terry and Bob met at last year’s state convention and Bob had given Terry his card, saying, “If you ever need any help, just give me a call!”
They hadn’t talked since then, but Terry had held on to Bob’s card and did just what Bob suggested … he gave him a call.
Bob told Terry he would be, “Glad to help,” and would be at the auction early.
Unfortunately, many times this is about the extent of the conversation. What else should Terry and Bob discuss? We have these suggestions:
Where and when? Date? Time? Location?
What are we (you) selling? Personal property? Real property? Both?
What job do you need me for? Auctioneer, clerk, cashier, registration, work the ring, set up, run certain software …?
What are you going to pay me? So much an hour? One amount for the day? A percentage?
What exact time should I be there? Early might be an hour before, or six hours before … or the day before.
What should I wear? Do I need one of your company shirts? Jacket? Certain colors? Jeans okay? What about shorts? Hat?
Can I wear my own shirt or clothing with my company logo on it? What about my truck with my logo on it — is that okay to drive?
Where should I park? Is there a certain place I need to park — out of the way, or another particular area? Is there more than one location?
What about expenses? Hotel? Food? Mileage?
How long do you think the auction will go? Do you want me to stick around after and help tear down and/or clean up?
Can I buy? If I’m working the auction, and see something I want, do you mind if I bid?
What should I bring with me? Sound system? Tripod? Clerk board? Anything else?
Do we need a signed contract? Some states mandate any auctioneer bid calling must be a party to a written contract. Are we going to sign that contract that morning, or prior?
Is there a sign requirement? Some states mandate a sign with all names of auctioneers (or licensees) be posted.
Anything about my license? Do I need to have my license card with me? Do you need my license number for any advertising?
Is this a with reserve auction or a without reserve auction?
Anything else I need to know? Will the seller be at the auction? Any issues I need to watch out for? How else can I help?
While we might not expect Terry and Bob to discuss all these issues during that first phone call, it does seem prudent for them to discuss at least some of these issues prior to the auction, rather than afterward — or not at all.
Auctioneers helping auctioneers? Sure.
Mike Brandly, Auctioneer, CAI, AARE has been an auctioneer and certified appraiser for over 30 years. His company’s auctions are located at: Mike Brandly, Auctioneer, Keller Williams Auctions and Goodwill Columbus Car Auction. His Facebook page is: www.facebook.com/mbauctioneer. He serves as Adjunct Faculty at Columbus State Community College and is Executive Director of The Ohio Auction School.
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