How to: Silent Auction Bid Sheets

Silent Auction Bid Sheet

You’re planning a silent auction and you’ve lined up some great items. The buzz is starting to get around and your guests are looking forward to the event. How do you create an experience for them that is as seamless and pleasant as possible?

If you’re not using mobile bidding, one way to ensure the success of your event is to create effective silent auction bid sheets. Not only will your guests use them to bid on items, they provide one more opportunity to make a positive impression on your donors. The better designed the bid sheets are, the more successful the silent auction will be.

Here are some things to keep in mind when creating your silent auction bid sheets

  • Create one bid sheet for each auction item and include the item number, name and description. (Be sure to mark the item/package with the item number as well, in case the bid sheets get moved or switched.)
  • Print the silent auction bid sheets from your event software or create them in Word or Excel. Handwritten bid sheets are hard to read. Use a large font (12 points or larger) and print the bid sheets on white or light colored paper for better legibility.
  • Create a table with one column for the bidder number and another column for the bid increments.
    • Use bidder numbers rather than names to keep the competition anonymous and friendly.
    • List the bid increments clearly to avoid confusion.
  • Brand your silent auction bid sheets with your organization logo or event name to promote your cause.
  • If you have multiple sections for your silent auction, clearly list the item’s section and closing time.
  • Optional: Include a “Guaranteed Purchase” price that will guarantee the bidder wins the item. This price should be 150% of the value of the item.

Greater Giving Event Software provides multiple options for printing professional-looking silent auction bid sheets, including a wizard that allows you to customize the layout. To learn more, visit: Greater Giving Event Software. As part of a well-orchestrated event, great silent auction bid sheets can help improve your guests’ experience and simplify the bidding process.

Want to go digital? Try mobile bidding!

If you’d like to eliminate the need for bid sheets altogether, try mobile bidding. Your guests will use their smart phones or tablets to bid on auction items. They can bid from anywhere in the room and they’ll get a text message when they’ve been outbid. Mobile bidding allows supporters to participate in your auction even if they can’t attend the event. It’s more convenient, more fun and ultimately more successful in generating revenue. Click here to learn more about Greater Giving Mobile Bidding.

Here’s an example of a bid sheet created in Greater Giving Event Software. How do you create bid sheets?

Printout of a sample silent auction bid sheet with callouts identifying the important parts to include.

 

Also see:

Interested in Greater Giving Online Bidding? Give us your email below and we’ll follow up with some more helpful information to get mobile bidding at your next event!


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