Working in the auction world is complicated, depending on whom you ask. One thing you are sure of, however, is that you will need the right skill-credibility balance to succeed. Whether you’ll be auctioning livestock, estate items, or even fine art, you must remember that the way you command the room (or the livestream, for online auctions) can make or break the sale.
While some of your success will depend on the knowledge you gain as you become experienced, it’s crucial to invest in the right training from the outset. Online courses are a great option in this regard, and here are the top tips to help you choose the best.
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1. First, Think About Your State’s Licensing Requirements
Before even setting your eyes on any offer out there, the first thing you should do is to read and understand your state’s auctioneer licensing requirements. That’s because different states regulate auctioneering differently. In truth, some states like Ohio, North Carolina, and Texas require you to complete state-approved auctioneer training online or in-person and pass an exam, after which you can take the podium.
At the same time, some states don’t have any formal licensing requirements at all. Still, you shouldn’t skip proper education if you want to succeed in your career. So, before browsing any course options, check your state auctioneer commission or licensing board’s website to find out:
- Whether you need any training
- The minimum training hours required
- Whether your training must be from an approved provider
- If there’s a state exam, and what it covers
Even if your state is somewhat relaxed, just getting a recognised certificate will boost your credibility and help clients feel confident in your abilities.
2. Try Finding a Course That Offers Real Auction Experience
The best auctioneers aren’t just made from textbooks alone. While formal education plays a crucial role in helping you succeed in this career, you need an online training program that can mix theory with practical experiences. Wondering what kinds of experience we are talking about? Here are some quick examples:
- Simulated live auctions through video conferencing
- Practising bid calling and chant development
- Teaching crowd engagement and pacing techniques
Some courses even require you to participate in live or recorded practice sessions that allow instructors to critique your style. Such hands-on elements are vital for auctioneering courses since they help you excel in the most important areas of your auctioneering career.
3. Check the Instructor’s Credentials
Auctioneering, like most other sensitive careers, is a skill you should learn from someone who’s been in the trenches. That’s why you want to look for instructors who have one or more of the following:
- Active or retired licensed auctioneer with at least 10 years of experience
- Familiar with both online and in-person auction formats
- Members of professional organisations like the National Auctioneers Association (NAA)
The best instructors blend insider trade secrets with an understanding of how the industry is evolving to help you master skills that will make you stand out.
4. Prioritise Legal and Ethical Training
An auctioneer’s reputation is often built or destroyed by how they handle disputes, contracts, and bidding integrity. Therefore, ensure you go for online training that covers subjects like the auction laws in your state and federal guidelines, ethical practices to avoid conflicts of interest, record-keeping requirements, contract creation, and other similar topics.
It may not look to you like you are doing much by taking courses with such topics, but the reality is that you’re investing in knowledge that will protect you, your clients, and the bidders. Most importantly, this is knowledge that can save you from costly legal trouble down the road.
Make Your Selection Process Easier
Auctioneering often seems like it’s all about talking fast, but it’s a lot more than that: it’s also about connecting with bidders, creating urgency, and maintaining total trust. Therefore, a solid online training program will equip you with the performance skills and business acumen you need to succeed in a competitive market, and that’s what RocketCert is all about.
With courses that help you take advantage of the growing popularity of online auctions, you will have the confidence and skill to take the gavel and own the moment.