Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: After-Sale Offers • Lot Description • Estimate Range

Absentee Bid

Term from Auction Houses industry explained for recruiters

An Absentee Bid is a method used in auctions where potential buyers can participate without being physically present. It's like leaving instructions with the auction house to bid on your behalf up to a maximum amount. This is a fundamental concept in auction houses, similar to phone bidding or online bidding. Auction professionals need to understand how to handle these bids as they're a crucial part of modern auction operations. You might also see this referred to as "written bids" or "order bids" in some auction houses.

Examples in Resumes

Managed over 500 Absentee Bid submissions for major quarterly auctions

Developed tracking system for Absentee Bids and Order Bids

Coordinated between Absentee Bid clients and live auction proceedings

Typical job title: "Auction Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Auction Administrator Bid Coordinator Client Services Coordinator Auction House Representative Auction Operations Manager Bidding Services Coordinator

Where to Find Auction Coordinators

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

• LinkedIn Auction Professionals
• LinkedIn Auction Groups

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple absentee bids are received for the same amount?

Expected Answer: Should explain the first-received priority policy, documentation procedures, and client communication protocols. Should also mention backup systems and dispute resolution processes.

Q: What systems have you implemented to prevent errors in absentee bid processing?

Expected Answer: Should discuss verification procedures, double-checking systems, confirmation protocols with clients, and any digital tools or software used to track bids.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you prioritize multiple absentee bids during a busy auction season?

Expected Answer: Should explain organizational systems, time management, communication with clients, and coordination with other departments.

Q: What is your process for handling international absentee bids?

Expected Answer: Should cover time zone considerations, currency conversion, international client communication, and documentation requirements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic process of recording an absentee bid?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the standard form completion, verification of client details, and basic record-keeping procedures.

Q: What information do you need to collect from a client submitting an absentee bid?

Expected Answer: Should list essential information like lot number, maximum bid amount, contact details, payment information, and any special instructions.