How to Solicit for a Silent Auction
Raise big bucks with a well-solicited silent auction fundraiser. Seek donations locally with the help of a committee dedicated to maximizing revenue from the event. Your silent auction will either need to include a large number of small items, or generate high prices on a few high-end items. Solicit auction items with a goal in mind, improving your chances of receiving the items or services you hoped for. Let people's generosity dictate the direction the auction takes, and remember the importance of a simple "thank you," keeping the pathway open to other donations in the future.
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Things You'll Need
- Local telephone book with business listings
- Solicitation letter
- Spreadsheet
- Thank-you notes
Instructions
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Work as a team to solicit the auction and gather donations. Form an auction committee. Include volunteers and supporters of your cause.
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Use the internet to locate potential donations. Make a list of possible donors. Gather lists of local retailers, community members and other individuals who may have an item or service to donate. Complete the list with phone numbers, mailing addresses and points of contact.
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Create a spreadsheet to track communication. Keep notes about specific names on your list, and track donations.
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Write a letter explaining that you are asking for a silent auction donation. Explain in the letter what your organization does, why the event is important and how to make a donation. (See Resource.)
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Show your appreciation by picking up the donation in person. Follow up with a personal visit or a phone call. Answer any questions, confirm possible donations and arrange a time to pick up the gift.
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Always send a thank-you note to anyone who donated to your auction. Send thank-you notes. Keep detailed notes on your spreadsheet so that you can send a personal thank-you note to those who donated. Thanking them appropriately for donations keeps communication open and is the first step to soliciting for next year's auction.
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Tips & Warnings
If there is something specific that you want, ask for it. If you would like the local sporting goods store to donate a bike, ask for a bike. If that is out of the question, accept a lesser donation.
Keep an organized list of those who wish to donate so that you do not forget to pick up a donation that is offered. It takes retailers and other individuals time to put together a package for you; be appreciative of their willingness to donate.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit gift for you image by Jake Hellbach from Fotolia.com Group of business people working together in the office. image by Andrey Kiselev from Fotolia.com working with laptop image by Renata Osinska from Fotolia.com Business people image by huaxiadragon from Fotolia.com many thanks image by firelover123 from Fotolia.com
