By Harry Ballin, Head Auctioneer at Windsor Auctions.

As an auctioneer at Windsor Auctions, my day-to-day role is as varied as the unique items we bring to auction.

Auction day is only one part of the picture – my job involves valuations and appraisals, relationship-building, and engaging with our community to create a rewarding experience for buyers and sellers.

Here’s a look into the world of auctioneering, from preparing for sale day to adapting to an ever-evolving industry.

 

A Day in the Life: No Two Days Are Alike

 

 

 

People often ask what a “typical day” looks like for an auctioneer. The truth is, there isn’t one!

Some days, I’m on the road appraising items from house clearances, and other days I’m running valuation mornings all over the local area. Many days, I’m managing our team, setting up auctions, or visiting clients.

Community work is also a big part of what we do at Windsor Auctions. For instance, we frequently visit care homes, like Avery Care Home, to offer valuations for residents and their families – creating opportunities to connect with local collectors and share knowledge.

Of course, some days are dedicated entirely to auctioneering. I get on the rostrum, calling out bids and managing the dynamic pace of the sale. These days bring a rush of excitement, as each bid pushes us closer to new ownership for each item, whether it’s a unique antique or a modern collectable.

 

Skills and Qualities That Make an Auctioneer

 

Auctioneering isn’t just about calling out bids; it’s about making every part of the experience lively and engaging.

You’ve got to be quick on your feet, confident, and have a good sense of humour. Every auction day is a blend of showmanship and strategy – keeping the energy high while making sure that bids are fairly represented and prices are maximized.

Empathy is another important quality. Many clients are going through big life changes, such as managing a loved one’s estate. It’s important to approach these situations with respect, understanding that the items we handle often hold deep sentimental value.

 

Preparing for Auction Day

 

Auction day preparation is about setting the stage for what’s ahead, which is always a mix of energy, excitement, and sometimes the unexpected!

The thrill of the live event and the buzz of having people in the room creates a unique atmosphere that makes auctioneering an absolute joy.

 

Keeping the Audience Engaged

 

Keeping the audience engaged and the bids coming is central to a successful auction.

As an auctioneer, I aim to keep the mood lively and relaxed. If bidding slows down, I often share a quick anecdote or a detail about the item up for bid.

Chatting with people in the room, adding humour, and bringing out interesting facts about the lots keeps the process interactive.

If things get competitive, I might adjust bid increments to keep the pace steady, so that we’re maximising each sale.

 

Adding Value for Buyers and Sellers

 

Auctioneering is a two-way street, benefiting both buyers and sellers. For sellers, my job starts well before the auction. I work to appraise items accurately, market them effectively, and then, on auction day, get the best possible price.

For buyers, auctioneering involves guiding them toward their desired items while creating a smooth bidding process. In a way, we help them find their next treasure – and sometimes even protect them from themselves if they’re about to make a hasty bid they might regret!

 

Staying Knowledgeable in an Evolving Market

 

 

The auction industry is constantly evolving, and staying knowledgeable about trends and market shifts is important. I keep up by reading industry publications, following antiques trade publications, and browsing collector magazines.

I also keep a close eye on social media to see what’s trending among buyers and dealers alike. And while research is key, I believe in asking questions and learning from others. Even as a seasoned auctioneer, there’s always something new to learn, and collaboration within the industry is invaluable.

 

Breaking into Auctioneering

 

For anyone interested in auctioneering, there are great ways to get started. I always recommend the Propertymark course, which provides a solid foundation.

But, the best way to learn is hands-on, working within an auction house. Many auctioneers start in entry-level positions and move up as they gain experience. With time, knowledge, and a bit of dedication, auctioneering becomes an incredibly rewarding career.

 

Embracing Online Auctions and Reaching New Markets

 

The rise of online auctions has reshaped the role of the auctioneer in recent years. While fewer people attend auctions in person, online bidding platforms allow us to reach a global audience.

The process can be slower, but online bidding opens up every auction to thousands of potential buyers worldwide. We now routinely ship items across continents, broadening the reach of every sale.

Online auctions present unique challenges, but they allow Windsor Auctions to bring our items to collectors far beyond our local community. It’s a rewarding shift, as each sale builds connections with buyers from around the world who share a passion for the unique and the valuable.

 

A Rewarding, Ever-Changing Career

 

Being an auctioneer means no two days are the same. The role is about more than just sales; it’s about creating value, preserving history, and building connections between people and their newfound items.

Whether online or in person, I’m proud to bring value to our buyers and sellers and to play a part in the Windsor Auctions experience.