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After over 20 years behind the mic as a successful radio announcer, corporate MC, and occasional TV presenter, I found myself craving a new challenge—one that would harness my strengths in communication, performance, and people-reading. What I didn’t expect was that the next chapter would take the form of a gavel and an auction floor. Real estate had long piqued my interest, but auctioneering? That wasn't even on the radar—until a passing suggestion lit a spark that quickly grew into a full-blown passion. Now, as a professional auctioneer with Auctionworks and founder of a cutting-edge virtual auction studio, I’ve found a new stage—one that not only fuels my ambition but also allows me to help people navigate the property world with clarity, transparency, and a whole lot of energy.
How did you start down this career path?
After more than two successful decades as a radio announcer, corporate MC, and dabbling in TV, I sought a new challenge. I wanted something that would leverage my developed skillset – communication, performing under pressure, reading people, and interacting, at times, like a ringmaster as the host of breakfast and Drive shows. Equally important, I wanted something that genuinely interested me. Real estate had always held a fascination for me; I enjoyed buying and renovating, and even had a regular segment on my radio show with a local agent.
Auctioneering, however, was never on my radar until it suddenly was! Someone mentioned it to me, and after some investigation, I was completely hooked. I declared, "This is it…this is the next chapter…go out and get it." I aligned myself with one of Sydney's top independent auction companies, Auctionworks, got qualified, and absorbed knowledge from some of the best in the industry. It has been an incredible journey.
What inspires you in your role/industry? Why?
I’m inspired by the opportunity. I’m inspired to be the best version of myself. I say this as I feel awkward in saying I want to be the best. I think auctioneers come in many different styles and packages…I want to be the best I can be and certainly want to be a leader in the industry. I love auction as a method of sale…I believe it’s the best, most transparent way to buy and sell and I have a yearning to tell the world about it. To help people understand the benefits and ease what can seem like a complex and anxious ridden journey for many. It’s not by the way, people just make it more complicated than it needs to be.
What's your approach to customer service that separates you from the rest?
What sets me apart isn't a secret formula, but rather a commitment to core principles: clear and consistent communication, active listening (as my father always advised, two ears, one mouth – listen twice as much as you speak), and a genuine empathy for the needs of my clients and their clients. My focus is always on providing the best possible service.
How do you innovate and stay ahead of industry trends?
I recently established a virtual studio specifically for online auctions. This studio, powered by The Auctions Live platform, features professional-grade sound, lighting, and visuals. A crucial element I've integrated is the ability for me to not only be seen by buyers, sellers, and agents but also to see them. I believe this is incredibly important, as the capacity to observe reactions and gauge individuals and the overall room is paramount to the auction process.
What is the toughest challenge you've faced in your role? How did you overcome it?
Securing that initial auction booking is a significant challenge. Asking an agent to introduce a new untested auctioneer into their business is a tough call. I deeply appreciate the break I was given and I value the importance of my role and the expectations it entails. I dedicated countless hours, days, weeks, and months to honing my skills, practicing at home with an online livestock auction program. I subjected myself to what were often awkward and intimidating practice calls in front of my peers, recording, studying, and making necessary adjustments until I felt confident. Fortunately, I had the support of great friends and colleagues in the industry who recognized my hard work, gave me an opportunity, and the rest, as they say, is history.
What are some of your goals for the next 5 years?
While increasing the number of auctions remains a priority, I'm particularly keen on expanding into specific areas. I aim to significantly boost the volume of virtual auctions conducted from my custom-built studio and increase the commercial auctions I call on the Gold Coast. Ultimately, I envision building a dedicated in-room auction house on the Gold Coast.
About Rob Doorey With more than 3 decades worth of experience in the media and radio hosting, combined with nearly a decade’s worth of experience in real estate auctioneering, Rob Doorey is sought after host and real estate auctioneer in NSW and QLD.
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