How to make that killer business proposal? May 21, 2011

Often, businesses focus on the cost aspect when drafting business proposals for potential customers. However, a well written business proposal could help you win the project inspite of the fact that your quote may be a little higher than your competitors’. Here are a few pointers on how to draft that killer business proposal which could help you bag that coveted project:

• Include as much information about your company as possible, focusing on some important projects handled till date, the team size and how you intend to handle the current project. Remember, the client always wants to be sure you are adept at handling the project, so win his trust.
• Whether it’s a business proposal or an advertisement, it’s always about the customer. Tell him how he will benefit by giving you this project. You could mention the special expertise you have about the tasks involved, or the excellent management that you have, or anything else which makes him believe that you can be a really beneficial resource.
• Often times, when businesses are looking to outsource, they are looking for long term partners. Thus, make sure your business proposal highlights the fact that you can handle the project for a long duration. Including your expansion plans in terms of resources and the motto of your business in the proposal is never a bad idea.
• Be straight to the point, and never keep anything hidden. Sometimes, businesses keep certain terms and conditions hidden from the prospect in order to win the project. But that could be detrimental for the long term plans of your business. If you are levying sales tax or service tax, clearly mention that in the proposal. Mention every term and condition that you have as your company policy. Remember, it’s about the trust, as much as it’s about the cost.
• Of course, the pricing is the crucial aspect of any proposal. And you could be innovative here too. Instead of merely writing the complete cost of the project, you could highlight your usual rates and the discount you are offering to the prospect. You could even throw in some value added services or products which do not cost you much but could be useful for the prospect.

Contributed by “The Writing Lab”