When organising a silent auction for a charity fundraising event, one of the key considerations is determining how long the auction should run. The timing of your silent auction can significantly impact both the amount of funds raised and the overall experience for your guests. So, how long should you plan for your silent auction to last? In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors to consider when setting the duration and provide tips to make sure your silent auction is both engaging and profitable.
One advantage of a Silent Auction is that it can run for longer than a Live Auction, allowing more time for bidding and often, therefore, a higher selling price.
Whether a classic silent auction (on paper bid slips) or a competitive silent auction (using tablets and online technology), most events will allocate a few hours of run time, with plenty of reference to the auction from the stage / host, to keep everyone engaged with it.
Several factors should guide your decision on how long the silent auction should last:
- Event Schedule
- Number of Auction Lots
- Guest Engagement
- Bidding Style
- Auction Closing Time
Closing time for a silent auction is best preceded by a ten-minute countdown – drawing maximum attention – and should allow time for collecting payments before the guests depart (or head to the dance floor).
Conclusion
The duration of your silent auction is crucial to its success. The goal is to give guests enough time to engage, but not so much that their attention wanes. Whether you’re hosting a small charity event or a large-scale fundraising gala, carefully considering your auction’s timing can help maximise participation and fundraising potential. By striking the right balance, your silent auction can become a key element in making your charity event a success.
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