Who determines whether your online silent auction is a slam-dunk success? That’s right, your bidders - those at your fundraising event and beyond
Without their generous support, your fundraiser won’t reach the targets needed to make a positive difference to others.
Here are a few things you can do to make sure every supporter knows your fundraiser is worth their support and that their contribution is appreciated.
Choose Your Online Fundraiser Platform Wisely
We want every cent of every dollar we donate to go directly to the cause we’re supporting. However, that’s not always possible or even reasonable to expect. Like their commercial counterparts, nonprofit organizations have overheads, such as office leasing and staff, that have to be paid for by donations or grants.
Fundraising events can be costly. The venue, the catering and the fundraising software and services all incur costs.
When choosing your online auction platform make sure you choose the one that not only offers the features and user experience you want, but the one with a pricing option that also matches your requirements.
A free online fundraising platform may be the right choice. Or, a paid platform option that doesn't ask your winners for a tip may be more appropriate. If bidders have already paid for event tickets consider a paid platform.
Tell supporters how the funds they contribute will be used.
Supporters will feel especially great about helping your cause if they have clear information about how their money will be used.
Tell them about the specific resources, equipment, medical support, or facilities, that are needed and how much they cost. This helps people make a connection to something tangible and an identified ‘goal’.
Outlining what will happen if the money isn’t raised (without making people feel guilty or pressured) is also an effective way to ensure supporters understand how they will be helping by participating in your silent auction.
Say Thank-You
Saying thank-you is a small act with big rewards. Acknowledging the help of your supporters will give them a feel-good boost and a lasting positive connection to your cause.
You don’t have to make a grand gesture, a simple post on your social media channels or via an email will make all the difference. You can do this while the fundraising campaign is running, and once the silent auction closes.
Telling people how much was raised and how delighted you are with the results helps let people know that they played an important part in the success.
Send Progress Reports
Your silent auction is finished, and you need to put the funds raised into action.
While you have important work to do, don’t forget to keep supporters updated with what’s happening with your fundraiser. Your supporters will have an emotional connection to your cause and will be keen to know how their donations are making a difference.
Again, it doesn’t need to mean a ton of work. A few social media posts and emails with details on how the funds are being spent is all people need to feel good about their contribution.
Ready to fundraise? Let’s get started!
*excluding standard credit card fees