As an auctioneer, I thrive on energy, excitement, and participation. A lively room is what makes a charity auction unforgettable and—most importantly—successful. But there’s one challenge I face at nearly every fundraising event: too many people talking while the auction is happening.
At first, it may seem harmless—guests catching up with friends, enjoying a drink, or networking. But excessive chatter quickly becomes a problem. Not only does it distract other bidders, it also makes it harder for guests to hear me, stay focused on the live auction items, and ultimately, bid generously.
So, how do we handle this delicate situation without dampening the festive atmosphere? Here are some of my tips to maximize engagement at charity auctions:
1. Set the Tone Early
Before the live auction begins, have the emcee, host, or nonprofit leader ask for everyone’s attention and explain the importance of quiet during bidding. If this message comes from the organization—not just the auctioneer—it carries more weight and emphasizes the fundraising mission.
2. Use Lighting and Sound to Your Advantage
Good event production can make or break a fundraising gala. A strong microphone, well-placed speakers, and spotlighting the auctioneer help command attention. Raising the house lights slightly during the auction signals to guests that this is the “main event” and discourages side chatter.
3. Close the Bar During the Auction
Nothing competes with a bar. If guests are lining up for drinks, they aren’t paying attention to the stage. Closing the bar during the charity auction (and announcing it will reopen afterward) is one of the simplest ways to keep the room focused.
4. Keep the Auction Moving
Guests talk when they get bored. That’s why I make sure the auction moves at a brisk pace. Long, drawn-out descriptions or pauses are an invitation for chatter. Energy, pacing, and rhythm are key to maintaining donor engagement.
5. Enlist Staff and Volunteers
Event staff, board members, and volunteers can act as “ambassadors” in the crowd, politely asking talkative tables to lower their voices. A gentle reminder from a peer is often more effective than the auctioneer addressing it from the stage.
6. Use Humor and Charm
When the room starts to buzz too much, I often break the tension with humor. A lighthearted comment—“I know the cocktails are flowing, but this is where the bidding gets fun!”—can bring focus back without embarrassing anyone.
7. Create Incentives for Listening
Sometimes I’ll tease an unexpected bonus for bidders or drop a surprise announcement mid-auction. Keeping the audience on their toes gives them a reason to stay tuned in, which increases auction participation.
8. Accept That Not Every Guest Will Be Fully Engaged
At every event, there will be guests more interested in socializing than bidding. That’s okay. The goal is to create an atmosphere where the majority are engaged, excited, and ready to participate generously in the fundraising auction.
Chatter is natural at social events, but with preparation, production, and a touch of finesse—including brightening the lights and pausing bar service—it doesn’t have to derail your event. When handled well, the room stays focused, the energy stays high, and the dollars raised for your nonprofit fundraising goals soar.