Job Description of an Auctioneer
Auctioneers help to sell a variety of items at public sales.They utilize a specific lingo and speak in a fast-paced manner to keep auctions moving quickly and efficiently. Due to the skills involved, a career as an auctioneer requires training, though some auctioneers are instructed in auctioneering procedures on the job. Employment opportunities may be difficult to come by, however, as nontraditional auction venues become more and more popular.
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Duties
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Prior to an auction, auctioneers appraise the items that are up for sale and group them according to type or estimated value. When the auction begins, the auctioneer stands on a podium in front of potential buyers and quickly describes the items for sale. He then begins to take bids, acknowledging each bidder as the price increases. Once the winning bid is evident, the auctioneer bangs a gavel to identify the high bidder. In addition to the duties they perform during an auction, auctioneers are often responsible for advertising and marketing auctions, making repairs on items that are up for sale, setting up the auction and cleaning the venue afterward. Some auctioneers specialize in certain types of items, such as livestock, antiques or real estate.
Training
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Many auctioneers choose to receive formal training. There are a small number of auctioneering programs in the United States, which last anywhere from several weeks to several months. Students are instructed in proper breathing and voice techniques for auctioneering and participate in drills to improve their pace and accuracy. In some programs, auctioneers will also take courses in ethics, advertising, auction law and public speaking. Other auctioneers are trained through apprenticeships. They work with experienced auctioneers and observe their techniques, so they may learn and practice the necessary skills. Many states require auctioneers to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, but generally auctioneers must complete a state-approved auctioneering program, possess a high school diploma or GED and pass a written exam. A real estate license may also be required for auctioneers who sell real estate.
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Working Conditions
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Many auctioneers only work on a part-time basis. Others work full-time, putting in 40-hour weeks. Their schedules depend largely on when auctions are held, but many work during the week. Some auctions may be held at night or on weekends, however, so auctioneers must be prepared to work then as well. Auctioneers must be in good physical shape because they often move heavy objects to the auction block. In addition, auctioneering requires a great deal of stamina, as auctioneers must lead auctions while standing and must able to talk without stopping for long periods.
Salary
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According to PayScale, a salary information website, auctioneers with one to four years of experience earn between $24,417 and $41,271 per year. Veteran auctioneers with more than 20 years of experience can earn up to $117,916; however, many auctioneers are paid on commission and take home a percentage of the total proceeds from an auction, so salaries can vary greatly.
Employment Outlook
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The rise of Internet auction sites has cut into employment opportunities for auctioneers because individuals are able to sell their own items. As experienced workers leave the field, however, there should be openings for trained auctioneers. Many auctioneers choose to operate their own businesses, so they have greater control over bookings and can increase their earnings.
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References
Resources
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