Top Tips for a Successful Silent Auction

Maximise fundraising. Elevate the experience.

Silent auctions have the power to transform an event – creating unforgettable moments for guests while raising essential funds for causes that matter. But the difference between a good auction and a great one lies in the detail.

At Impulse Decisions, we’ve supported thousands of fundraising events across the UK and beyond. Here are our top tips to ensure your next Charity Auction is a standout success:

1. Pick the Right Silent Auction Style for Your Event

At Impulse Decisions, we offer both digital and brochure-style auctions – each with unique benefits depending on your event format.

Digital Auctions are a modern, dynamic way to engage guests. Bidding is done online via mobile phones, and live leaderboards displayed on screens keep energy high and competition visible throughout the night.
Brochure Auctions follow a more traditional approach – guests write down their bids, which are collected and winners are personally informed at their table. This format often creates a sense of occasion and adds a more personal, hands-on feel.

2. Curate a Strong Silent Auction Catalogue

Your auction items should be aspirational, varied, and tailored to your audience. Think:

Luxury holidays and getaways
Exclusive hospitality and dining experiences
Signed memorabilia
Unique “money-can’t-buy” moments

We’ll help you source items with high perceived value – and zero risk to your charity.

3. Promote in Advance

Build anticipation by showcasing a selection of auction items before the event.

Whether it’s through a branded website, event programme or email teasers – getting guests excited early means they arrive ready to bid.

4. Make the Auction Seamless – and Strategic

While digital auctions offer convenience, we often see brochure auctions deliver stronger results – especially when paired with high-quality printed materials and well-briefed staff to support on the night.

Clear instructions, engaging auction displays, and consistent guest reminders help ensure everyone knows how to take part – and feels encouraged to do so. Whichever format you choose, we’ll ensure it runs smoothly and professionally from start to finish.

5. Add a Personal Touch

Let guests know what they’re supporting. Highlight the cause with a short video, a speaker, or a live appeal to create an emotional connection.

People give more when they understand the impact.

6. Keep the Energy High

Your event host or compère can make a huge difference. Enthusiasm is contagious – and a few well-timed nudges can spark bidding battles that significantly boost your total.

7. Follow Up and Thank Your Supporters

After the event, be sure to:

Thank all bidders and winners
Share the fundraising total
Highlight the difference they’ve made

It’s not only good etiquette – it lays the foundation for future support.

Ready to Elevate Your Event?

We’ve helped raise millions for charities through our expert auction management and bespoke fundraising support. Whether you’re planning a gala dinner, golf day, awards night, PTA fundraiser, corporate event, or something completely unique — we can help you create an unforgettable experience while supporting your business’s corporate social responsibility goals. Let’s talk about how we can support your 2026 event.

📩 Get in touch with the team today.