Today we’d like to introduce you to Micki Pickering.
Hi Micki. We’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Originally from England, I moved with my parents to the United States at the age of 9. I grew up mainly in Colorado Springs and moved to Austin when I was 21. Once in Austin, I enrolled at A.C.C. in the Hospitality Management program and graduated with a Specialty in Meetings and Events. For 10 years, I worked my way up in the event world, and found myself working for a large marketing agency, planning high level corporate events; while I loved the event industry and the events I was planning, I knew there was something inside me that needed to do more. Then, I got my “Ah Ha” moment during one of my larger events, I had to Emcee for the booth on a tradeshow floor full of 12,000 people, as others were nervous about being on the microphone. Over the few days of the tradeshow, I realized my place and talent behind the microphone.
That was the end of November 2017. In April 2018, I quit my job, with nothing else but a hope to discover my true passion and place in this world (much to my parent’s dislike). I 100% invested in myself for the first time in my life. I started meditating every day. Through that work, I realized that the way I could make a difference in the world, is to use my voice to ask for help for those not able to ask for it themselves, and that the platform to do that on, was as a Benefit Auctioneer. However, I then found out I had to go to school, get a license, and open a business before I could even advertise myself as an Auctioneer! So, I took another leap. In the fall of 2018, I went to an Auction School and began the process of becoming a professional auctioneer.
In March 2019, I officially opened Hoot Auctions, LLC, with my valid Texas Auctioneer license. I was fortunate to have connections in the event world that gave me a chance. Through intense networking and attending the Texas Auctioneer Association annual conference, I got a few gigs in the fall of 2019.
In the Spring of 2020, I was booked for a full spring of events as the lead Auctioneer. As we all know, overnight on March 14th, 2020, they all canceled, and all my work from the last 3 years felt all for none. Thankfully, I had made some connections in the auction liquidation world, I was able to fill in the down time doing business and estate liquidation auctions. I also partnered with a Technical Producer and completed a few virtual fundraising events for non-profits. Then, of course, just as soon as we learned how to do virtual events, the world began to open up. It has been a consistent, steady journey since then, but I am thankful that Hoot Auctions has been able to stay afloat and is now solely focused on benefit auctions and high-end asset sales and looking toward the future.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’m not sure owning your own business is a smooth road for anyone, especially in the last few years. Covid was tough, I launched my business in Spring 2019, so it hit me hard. I am also a woman in an extremely male-dominated industry. 76% of Auctioneers are men; also, the majority of people that enter the auction industry are 2nd, 3rd, or 4th generation auctioneers. So they have their family to help them get connected, train, and guide them in the industry. I randomly decided to be an Auctioneer and had no idea about these things, so I have had to work hard to build relationships and connections with people in the industry. Being a young woman and a 1st generation auctioneer has its challenges. I have, however, had some incredible mentors and supporters help me along the way. I truly believe that when you find your purpose, all the right things come into your world to allow you the most success. I have been very fortunate in my path despite the challenges presented. There are not many Auctioneers out there, only 24% are women, and very few of those women are 1st generation. That puts me in a niche within a niche, which helps me stand out from the crowd, which is essential in business!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a Professional Licensed Auctioneer and Fundraising Specialist. I work primarily with non-profits for benefit and fundraising events. However, I also specialize in high-end asset auctions and offer fundraising consulting. Hoot Auctions offers far more than just a few minutes on stage selling items. With my decade plus of event logistics knowledge, I work with organizations to view the whole event as a fundraising/sales moment, rather than just the time on stage selling the items. Each organization gets a customized approach that best fits its needs. Whether this is your first fundraiser or you have been doing your event for 20 years with dedicated attendance, I can understand your and your attendee’s needs, and get on the level that is best for your organization’s fundraising. It is so much more than just bid-calling. It is about connecting your audience to the goal as a group. It is a dedication to the cause, going the extra mile, and always coming from a place of good! The Hoot way is an honest, fun, direct approach to fundraising. We just like to have a Hoot!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check?
Lydia Fenet: The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You – I found this right as I decided to become an Auctioneer. She also happens to be an Auctioneer, but this book is good for anyone wanting to own their power – she is incredible!
Gary Vee: Been loving his stuff popping up lately, especially the general, be yourself, and be the kind model he promotes.
Pricing:
- Customized Packages Available
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hootauction.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hootauctions/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HootAuctions
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbw9h-qvDukFFoe-pdAp2eQ
