Bid writing is the third step of the puzzle
Yep you heard that right…… As you can see from what I’ve covered already in previous posts, there’s plenty you can do before you even put pen to paper!
But in this post I’ve finally gotten round to sharing some tips for the third and most important step: creating the winning bid.
Here’s some of my top tips for getting this part bang on…..
- First things first, and yes even before you start writing, get a list going. This is known as compliance, but essentially it’s a tick list. Read absolutely everything, front to back and list out: What are the requirements, do you have them, if not who will get them for you and by when?
- Also take some time to look at what is being asked for. Look at what the important bits or high scoring sections are, and always start with those first!
- Before you start writing, create your outline or ‘value proposition’. This is where you consider what issue the buyer is looking to resolve, what solution you can offer them and what impact or benefits that will give them.
- Spend time looking at what the question is asking and answer it, and what you need to write to score highest marks. Remember buyers need to understand the problem that you’re solving for them, how you will deliver the solution and what the benefit will be to them it.
- Remember to thoroughly review your writing for errors, clarity, and completeness. If possible, build in time and get someone else to review it for you!
- Lastly, remember to pay careful attention to the practicalities of getting it submitted on time and with everyone provided. This can take a surprising amount of time, and no one wants to be frantically uploading documents to clunky systems with seconds to spare (Believe me, I’ve been there!!)
TOP TIP – Most portals will let you upload and submit multiple times, so get into the habit of having something uploaded. This means even if you plan to refine it, at least you will have something ready to go.
There’s lots more you can be working on but keeping those tips in mind is a great place to start!
Good luck!
And remember to check out the First and Second Pieces of the puzzle at the following links
First piece of the puzzle – Choosing your targets – George Ivy (george-ivy.co.uk)
First piece of the puzzle – Shortlisting your targets – George Ivy (george-ivy.co.uk)
Second piece of the puzzle – Pull together your Case Studies – George Ivy (george-ivy.co.uk)
