Auctioneers

The outlook for auctioneers is good, especially for those who have developed a specialty, such as real estate. Auctioneers with polished skills and a strong delivery usually have little trouble finding work. For an ambitious auctioneer who is willing to travel to various locations and invest time to gain experience, regular employment is possible, either as an independent auctioneer or as a staff member of an auction firm. However, this is tempered by the rise of Internet auction sites, such as eBay, which automate the process and make it easier for people to run their own sales.

Many auctioneers get assignments based on their reputation and notoriety within an area. Thus, auctioneers may find it difficult to reestablish themselves if they move to another area. Also, some types of auctions are found only in certain areas. Art auctions, for example, generally take place in cities, while livestock, farm equipment, and farm land most often are sold in rural areas.