Proposal Time.

FYC just submitted our first large business proposal.

It was scary, but we did it.  It was like we were in school again working together in the 23rd hour to submit a proposal that could change the path of our little company.  And we wanted this, so we re-checked & re-edited, called in troops, and then re-read it again!  Our fingers are still crossed.

We learned a lot in that 24 hour time period.  We learned that there are important things that you must remember…

1. Template proposals sound like a good idea, but typically – NOT.  Successful ones must tailor each proposal to each prospective client to make sure their specific needs and objectives are met.  This shows you care enough to take time out for them now.  And this equates to caring for them when you win the bid later.
2. Share your STRENGTH. A client wants to be assured that you have the abilities to do the job and “smash it out of the ballpark”, if you will.  Express your ability & expertise in jargon that relates to the project.  Tell them what you uniquely bring to the table.
3. Accurately assess what the company needs, and how it can be delivered.  Do you homework.  Read about them, at the very least “google” them.  Incorporate what you have learned into your proposal… for us that meant learning they were launching a new product line & we proposed they beef up their website with a robust CMS program. In the end, a revenue generator for us and one for them too= Win, Win.
4. Cost.  That was the hardest part.  We did some research and came up with a baseline.  Then we ran our calculations, line by line.  As a team, we discussed our bottom line, and what that looked like to us.  Then we hit send.

Follow these link to read on from other people who know more…