What skills make someone successful in the auction business?

Good auctioneers and auction company owners usually combine several skills. They have broad knowledge of merchandise and values, which comes from handling lots of items over many years. They are comfortable speaking in public and can keep a crowd engaged. They are organized, because every sale involves contracts, inventory, marketing, payments and payouts.

People skills matter just as much. Consignors are often going through difficult times, such as a death, divorce or move, and they need patience and honest communication. Buyers return when they are treated fairly and transactions go smoothly.

Today, technology skills are also important, including photography, online catalogs, email and social media marketing, and payment systems. Physical stamina helps too, since auction work often involves long days and heavy lifting. Above all, a reputation for honesty is what keeps an auction business going for generations.