Not gonna lie, writing proposals is a tough slog. Here is how to do it efficiently.
How to Read Requests for Proposals (RFP)
One of the biggest reasons I’m offering this website is to help new consultants to understand RFPs or requests for proposals. When I was first starting out, I found them really intimidating. Picture little old me, a newbie in the consulting business, clicking my way through an 80-page document full of opaque requirements, legal jargon,…
How to Write Your Proposal
First, Don’t get screened out on a technicality One of the hardest lessons I had to learn in writing proposals is that the person who screens them might not know the first thing about the work you do. I assumed that because the person who put together the request for proposal (RFP) clearly knew the…
Your Proposal’s Methologogy
Put aside some time for the proposal methodology. This is the section of your proposal on which you will probably spend the most hours, and feel the most stress. This is the part where you tell the client how you’re going to do the thing they’ve asked for. Your goal in the proposal methodology is…
Cost Estimating for Consultants
Cost estimating is easier than you think. When I was first starting out, cost estimating for my proposals terrified me. I was worried that I was going to high-ball my price, offend my client, and look foolish. Or that I would lowball it, lose my shirt, and look foolish. I don’t worry so much anymore.…
How to Show Your Understanding of a Project
Part of writing a proposal is showing them that you understand what the assignment is. Sometimes it’s a rated requirement (“proponent’s understanding of the project” or similar.) Sometimes it’s not stated as such—but it’s still important. If it’s singled out as a rated requirement, you should probably write a separate section for it, outside your…
Proposal Pro Tips for Consultants
Pro tip: Hire a graphic designer. Your proposal has to look nice; first impressions make a huge impact. I have had clients tell me that the look of my proposal was the thing that put me over the edge in comparison to other proponents; mine looked professional and gave them confidence that my work would…