Valuation
Valuation is the process of determining the current market worth of antiques, collectibles, and art pieces. It involves carefully examining items, researching their history, checking their condition, and comparing them to similar items that have recently sold. People who do valuations help sellers price their items correctly and help buyers make informed decisions. This skill is essential in antique shops, auction houses, and estate sales. Think of it like being a detective who figures out how much things are worth by looking at clues like age, rarity, condition, and market demand.
Examples in Resumes
Performed over 500 Valuations of Victorian-era furniture and decorative arts
Conducted Valuation assessments for major estate sales and auctions
Led team of specialists in Valuations for insurance purposes
Created detailed Valuation reports for high-value antique collections
Typical job title: "Antique Valuers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Antique Valuers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle complex valuations involving multiple periods and styles?
Expected Answer: A senior valuer should explain their systematic approach to evaluating mixed collections, discussing how they research different periods, use reference materials, and consult with specialists when needed. They should mention documentation methods and explain how they handle challenging pieces.
Q: Tell me about a time you had to defend a valuation to a skeptical client.
Expected Answer: They should describe their communication skills, ability to explain their reasoning clearly, and how they use market data and research to support their conclusions. Should demonstrate professional judgment and client management skills.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What resources do you use to stay current with market values?
Expected Answer: Should mention auction results databases, price guides, industry publications, and networking with other professionals. Should discuss how they track market trends and price changes.
Q: How do you determine authenticity of pieces?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic authentication methods, including visual inspection, maker's marks, period-appropriate materials and construction methods, and when to consult specialists or use technical analysis.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when valuing an item?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic factors like condition, age, rarity, maker/artist, provenance, and market demand. Should demonstrate understanding of how these factors affect value.
Q: How do you research an unfamiliar item?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic research methods using reference books, online databases, consulting more experienced colleagues, and checking recent auction results.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic item identification
- Understanding of common styles and periods
- Use of standard reference materials
- Writing simple valuation reports
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed knowledge of specific collecting areas
- Market analysis and trend spotting
- Authentication skills
- Client relationship management
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert knowledge across multiple categories
- Complex valuation assessments
- Training and mentoring others
- High-value item specialization
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain how they determine values
- No knowledge of major reference sources or price guides
- Lack of hands-on experience with antiques
- Poor understanding of market trends and factors affecting value
- No familiarity with authentication methods
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
The Hidden Art of Salary Negotiation: How to Win Hearts Without Going Broke
Unlocking the Competitive Edge: Benchmarking Your Talent Acquisition Metrics
Unlocking Team Potential: Personality Mapping for Dynamic Management
