Does your business provide specialized services or project completion? Are you asked to submit a request for proposal (RFP) when bidding for jobs? If so, your business success hinges on the ability to create winning RFPs.
When you know the key elements and approaches to use, writing an RFP becomes less stressful. This article will discuss essential elements to help you write a winning proposal.
What is a Request for Proposal?
A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a frequently used business tool for selecting which company to hire for a project. The RFP describes the formal bid from contractors wishing to be hired. It includes details about the project, who will complete it, and the cost for the service.
Best Approaches to Writing a Successful RFP Response
When you receive an RFP, begin by reading through the entire document. Forbes recommends taking time to consider if this project will benefit your company. They suggest not responding to an RFP unless you are more than 50% sure you can win.
A well written RFP response should include 5 elements:
1. Tailor Your RFP Response
Always tailor your RFP response to the potential customer. The decision-makers want to feel like you understand their company’s unique needs.
Speak your customer’s language. Avoid confusing jargon. This does not make you sound smarter; it just makes the customer uncomfortable.
Choosing a company like this RFP consulting firm can help you avoid common mistakes made when writing an RFP. They can also ensure that your RFP stands out above the crowd.
2. Clearly Answer Every Question Asked
While carefully reading the RFP, make a checklist for each requirement included. You can then provide a complete response to every component of the project. One of the quickest ways to lose a bid is by not fully answering questions.
3. Provide an Overview
Describe your company including your name, location, expertise, and contact information. Provide a picture that paints your company as a step above the others.
Review your company description and see if it could describe a competitor. If the answer is yes, add more unique information.
Describe the customer’s need and how your company is best equipped to solve the problem. Include ideas, approaches, and detailed timelines. Provide any relevant customer testimonials or references.
4. Clearly Explain Your Proposal
When describing your plan for completing the project, provide evidence of your expertise. Provide real-time statistics and quantitative data.
Think in terms of telling the story of how you will solve the problem. Limit long technical descriptions when possible. Make the customer feel comfortable and confident in your businesses’ ability to meet their needs.
5. Cost to Complete the Project
Provide the cost proposal for your company to complete the project. It’s often best to group parts of the project together for pricing. If you are too detailed, you risk increased scrutiny and provide the customer with more negotiation points.
Do You Like to Learn New Information?
If you have ever been asked to write a request for proposal you know this can be a daunting task. This article provided several elements help you write a successful RFP response.
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