Stand Out From the Crowd

Writing a proposal is a lot like writing a resume. When you send a proposal off, you're trying to get the business. When you submit a resume, you're trying to get a job. Think about the following guidelines when you're working on your next proposal.

1. Be concise and clear. After writing the proposal, review it for clarity. Does it say what you want it to say in a concise and clear manner? If not, rework the copy so you can articulate your points in as few words as possible.
   
2. Layout the proposal in a professional format. Is the format you chose professional looking? Is the information organized in a logical order? Did you use headers and subheads to make the information easier to read? The presentation of the information is often as important as the words you use.
   
3. Stand out from the crowd. Is your proposal unique in some way that will draw attention and stimulate interest? What's different about your proposal? Is the structure of the proposal different? You want it to be read and you ultimately want to "win" the business.

Here's to your success in writing more effective proposals.

Katie Wacek is the President of Sandia Mountain Marketing, a marketing consultancy that provides strategic and tactical marketing expertise to small- and medium -sized companies, professional service firms, and thought leaders throughout the United States. Learn more.