Expert Insights: Passion for the Purpose of People Helping People
August 2023
It is hard to believe it’s already time to write for the Fall Catalog. Summers seem to speed through, unlike our last winter. With the change of season, harvest will be upon us. The auction industry has also seen its fair share of change. Consolidation is taking place in many of the markets we serve. How we conduct auctions is changing, trending to the online-only platform. Remember, Steffes still does live auction sales, but as a client-focused company, it is up to them to decide whether the auction be live or online. As I’ve learned in the past 20+ years of working for Steffes, this profession is deeply connected to helping others.
Emotions come into play when people are going through some transition in their lives. We prioritize the situation, whether it involves the passing of a family member, an individual’s retirement, or any other kind of significant life change. In a world often driven by profit margins and self-interest, it’s refreshing to be a part of an industry that embodies the true spirit of human connection and support. With its rich history spanning centuries, the auction business has evolved into a platform where people come together to help one another. It serves as a shining example of how commerce can foster a sense of community and provide individuals with opportunities for growth and support. This business is more than just buying and selling; it is a testament to the power of people helping people. It has been said that auctions are the true expression of the American free enterprise system. They open doors to a vast array of opportunities for both buyers and sellers. It provides sellers with a platform to showcase their assets to a diverse pool of potential buyers, often resulting in better prices than traditional sale methods.
On the other hand, buyers can acquire unique items, investment opportunities, or assets that may have otherwise been inaccessible due to market conditions. What is unique is that auctions provide us with true price discovery and show us what is unique. By bringing together these two parties, auctions facilitate the discovery of mutually beneficial deals and generate opportunities to positively impact people’s lives. Auctions enable individuals to turn their underutilized or unwanted assets into liquid assets, providing them with financial stability and a fresh start. One of the remarkable aspects of the auction business is its ability to level the playing field. Traditional marketplaces may exclude individuals due to barriers like limited resources, lack of connections, or geographic constraints.
In contrast, auctions create an extensive environment where everyone has an opportunity to participate. Auctions provide a chance to engage in commerce on an equal footing. Behind every Steffes auction is a team of experts with valuable knowledge and experience in their respective fields. Steffes employs specialists who are well-versed in areas such as construction, real estate, agriculture, and more. These experts ensure the integrity of the auction process and provide guidance and insights to buyers and sellers. Their expertise helps individuals make informed decisions, fostering an environment of trust and transparency. The auction business exemplifies the inherent goodness in people, showcasing how commerce can be a powerful tool for mutual support and growth. The auction business enriches lives and strengthens communities by creating opportunities, supporting individuals during transitions, equalizing access, aiding charitable causes, and sharing expertise. It serves as a reminder that the human connection and our collective desire to help one another are fundamental to the fabric of society. So, the next time you participate in an auction, remember that you are not just engaging in a transaction but contributing to my narrative: we are just people helping people.
Ashley Huhn
Director of Agriculture and Real Estate
