I wrote about how you can promote your business by donating to charity events, but I thought I should expand on HOW to get your products or services in an auction—and what you can do to make it a successful way to market your business…
You may be surprised at how many opportunities there are to auction off your products or services and this can be an excellent way to get them into the hands of prospective customers or clients. Also, you do not have to donate a product or service in order to have it in an auction—while this is often how a presenting organization prefers it, you can “sell” your product or service to the organization at a reduced rate and then they can collect the difference when the object is sold. OR, you can ask for a minimum amount to cover your costs and the organization can take whatever is raised above that amount.
Consider what would make a good introduction or “sampler” for your products and services. Of course, you don’t want to give away too much since the goal is to create customers—but you will also want to make an attractive package and take advantage of the public relations aspects. Whenever possible, make your products or services stand alone as an auction item, or put together your own collection—it is less advantageous for you if your offering gets packaged in with other items from other businesses (you just won’t get the same publicity and your product may get lost in the grouping.)
If possible, attend the auction—you might be able to get free tickets or even an entire table if you make a substantial enough contribution. It is a good way to network, promote your business, and have a pleasant evening—all at the same time. Also, ask if you can get a record of who “bid” on your product or services—this is a possible list for you to follow up with.
Also: Should You Use Promotional Products?
Should You Tithe or Give From Your Home Business?