Telephone Bid
A Telephone Bid is a common auction house service where staff members assist remote buyers who cannot attend an auction in person. The staff member stays on the phone with the buyer during the auction and places bids on their behalf in real-time. This method is particularly important for high-value items and international clients. It's similar to absentee bidding or online bidding, but provides a more personal touch and immediate two-way communication during the auction. Many auction houses consider this a premium service that requires dedicated staff members who understand both client relations and auction procedures.
Examples in Resumes
Managed over 200 Telephone Bid clients during major seasonal auctions
Coordinated Telephone Bid arrangements for international collectors during fine art sales
Successfully handled Telephone Bid operations for high-value estate auctions
Trained junior staff in Telephone Bidding procedures and client communication
Typical job title: "Telephone Bid Clerks"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Telephone Bid Clerks
Professional Networks
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle multiple high-value telephone bidders for the same lot?
Expected Answer: Should discuss prioritization based on client history, managing multiple phone lines, backup staff coordination, and contingency plans for technical issues.
Q: Describe how you would train new staff in telephone bidding procedures.
Expected Answer: Should explain creating training materials, shadowing process, practice scenarios, client communication protocols, and handling emergency situations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you manage difficult clients during a live auction?
Expected Answer: Should discuss staying calm, clear communication, managing expectations, and proper documentation of all interactions and decisions.
Q: What system do you use to organize multiple telephone bids for a busy auction?
Expected Answer: Should explain preparation methods, documentation systems, staff allocation, and how to handle last-minute requests.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information do you need to collect from a telephone bidder before the auction?
Expected Answer: Should mention contact details, backup numbers, lot numbers of interest, maximum bids, payment information, and identity verification.
Q: How do you ensure clear communication during a fast-paced auction?
Expected Answer: Should discuss speaking clearly, confirming bid amounts, using standard terminology, and maintaining focus in a busy environment.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic auction terminology
- Phone etiquette
- Record keeping
- Following bidding procedures
Mid (1-3 years)
- Client relationship management
- Multi-tasking during live auctions
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Understanding of market values
Senior (3+ years)
- Team coordination
- Training and development
- High-value client handling
- Auction strategy consulting
Red Flags to Watch For
- Poor phone communication skills
- Lack of attention to detail in bid recording
- Unable to handle pressure of live auctions
- No understanding of auction house procedures
- Poor client confidentiality awareness
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