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Step 1
Prepare ahead of time. Make sure you have your organization's information with name, contact information and tax exempt ID number. Having this information to give to prospective donors makes the process easier for you and the person or company.
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Step 2
Delegate responsibilities before you start. Know who will solicit for the items, who will organize them, and who will send thank you notes. Make arrangements for large items to be picked up and decide where the items will be stored.
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Step 3
Spread the word to everyone. Tell everyone you know and come in contact with that you are gathering items for a silent auction. Word of mouth is a great way to network your needs and gather prospective donors.
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Step 4
Approach all people and businesses. You will be surprised at who will and will not donate. Many times, it is the business or person you contemplate skipping or not asking at all that will donate the most or best items.
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Step 5
Be upbeat, pleasant and full of thanks. It is important to make the donor feel valued, especially if they decide not to donate for this specific event. Express your thanks, even if it just for their time. This will help ensure that you are creating and sustaining a good name for your organization in your community.
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Step 6
Make smaller donations into groupings or baskets for the auction. There is no donation too small. Create larger groupings or gift baskets with smaller donations. Be sure that there are no conflicting items, like gift certificates or supplies from two different salons or auto supply shops.
