Auctioneer schools are workshops where students can learn the fundamentals of auctioneering. The school’s duration varies, but most are a few weeks long and cover a wide range of topics. Because the classes are usually small, each student is guaranteed to receive individual attention if necessary. All of the fundamental skills required to become an auctioneer are thoroughly examined, and frequently include one or more of the following:
Writing a Contract
Making up your own chant
Advertising
Maintaining records
Practices of Clerks and Cashiers
Have you ever participated in a live auction?
Most auctioneer schools encourage students to attend local public auctions and learn from local auctioneers. This usually entails the student putting their newly acquired skills to use by bidding on real-world items.
Most auctioneer schools offer classes in specific areas of expertise, such as real estate, art, livestock, antiques, and automobiles, for auctioneers who want to specialize. Many schools encourage students to get a degree in the fine arts or art history if they plan on auctioning off fine art or antiques. This will help them better understand the items they will be selling.
While almost anything can be sold at auction, most auctioneers choose to specialize in one or two areas, earning optional certifications such as appraisers licenses in the process. Any auctioneer should get an appraiser’s license because it assures buyers and sellers that the auctioneer knows what the merchandise is worth and is setting the bidding price appropriately.
Anyone considering attending auctioneer school should attend several auctions and observe the auctioneer, as well as speak with him or her afterwards if possible. Most auctioneers will gladly share their knowledge and expertise with you, and you may even be invited to assist them during one of their auctions. It never hurts to inquire, and even if you never get close enough to speak with the auctioneer, just listening and observing will teach you a lot.