Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Bidding Increment • After-Sale Offers • Timed Auction

Preview Period

Term from Auction Houses industry explained for recruiters

A Preview Period is a scheduled time before an auction when potential buyers can examine items that will be sold. During this time, interested parties can inspect artwork, antiques, or other collectibles in person to verify their condition and authenticity. This is similar to an "open house" in real estate, but for auction items. It's a crucial part of the auction process as it allows bidders to make informed decisions and helps ensure transparency in the sale.

Examples in Resumes

Coordinated Preview Period events for over 50 high-value auctions

Managed security and client relations during Preview Sessions for fine art auctions

Organized staff schedules for extended Preview Periods of major estate sales

Typical job title: "Preview Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Auction Coordinator Preview Manager Gallery Assistant Auction House Associate Client Services Coordinator Exhibition Coordinator

Where to Find Preview Coordinators

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Industry Networks

• LinkedIn Auction Professionals
• Art Market Recruiters

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a high-value item is damaged during a preview period?

Expected Answer: A senior coordinator should explain their crisis management process, including documenting the incident, notifying relevant parties (owner, insurance, management), and implementing preventive measures for future previews.

Q: Describe how you would organize a preview period for a major estate sale with over 1000 items.

Expected Answer: Should discuss logistics planning, staff scheduling, security measures, catalogue organization, and methods for handling large numbers of visitors while maintaining item safety.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you manage multiple client inquiries during a busy preview period?

Expected Answer: Should explain their system for prioritizing requests, delegating tasks to staff, and ensuring all clients receive attention while maintaining security of items.

Q: What procedures do you follow for condition reporting during previews?

Expected Answer: Should describe their process for documenting item condition, handling client questions about condition, and maintaining accurate records.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic security measures needed during a preview period?

Expected Answer: Should mention visitor sign-in procedures, bag check policies, supervision of valuable items, and basic crowd control measures.

Q: How do you prepare a space for a preview period?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic setup procedures, including item placement, lighting, signage, and ensuring proper documentation is available.