How to write a new business proposal

Writing a new business proposal involves several steps, including researching the potential client, understanding their needs, and outlining a clear and concise proposal that showcases your company's capabilities and value proposition. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you write a compelling business proposal:

Step 1: Research the Potential Client

• Gather information about the potential client, including their company history, products or services, mission, values, and goals.
• Identify the key decision-makers and their roles within the organization.
• Review the company's website, social media, and industry reports to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and challenges.

Step 2: Understand the Client's Needs

• Review the Request for Proposal (RFP) or the client's requirements document to understand their needs and expectations.
• Identify the key challenges and pain points the client is facing, and how your company can help address them.
• Develop a list of questions to ask the client to clarify their needs and expectations.

Step 3: Develop a Proposal Outline

• Create a proposal outline that includes the following sections:
  • Executive Summary
  • Company Overview
  • Solution Overview
  • Methodology
  • Timeline
  • Budget
  • Conclusion
  • Appendices (e.g., resumes, references, certifications)

Step 4: Write the Executive Summary

• Write a brief summary of the proposal that highlights the key points and value proposition.
• Keep it concise and focused on the main message.
• Use this section to grab the reader's attention and entice them to read the rest of the proposal.

Step 5: Write the Company Overview

• Provide an overview of your company, including its history, mission, values, and services.
• Highlight your company's unique strengths, capabilities, and achievements.
• Include any relevant certifications, awards, or recognition.

Step 6: Write the Solution Overview

• Describe the solution you are proposing to the client, including the products or services you will provide.
• Highlight the benefits of your solution, including how it will address the client's needs and challenges.
• Use this section to showcase your company's expertise and capabilities.

Step 7: Write the Methodology

• Describe the approach you will take to deliver the solution, including the steps you will take and the timeline.
• Highlight the key milestones and deliverables.
• Include any relevant methodologies, frameworks, or tools you will use.

Step 8: Write the Timeline

• Provide a detailed timeline of the project, including key milestones and deadlines.
• Highlight any critical dependencies or risks.
• Include a plan for managing changes and issues that may arise during the project.

Step 9: Write the Budget

• Provide a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the project, including labor, materials, and overhead.
• Highlight any assumptions or estimates used in the budget.
• Include a plan for managing costs and ensuring value for money.

Step 10: Write the Conclusion

• Summarize the key points of the proposal and reiterate the value proposition.
• Highlight the benefits of working with your company.
• Include a call to action, such as requesting a meeting or proposal review.

Step 11: Review and Edit

• Review the proposal carefully to ensure it is complete, accurate, and free of errors.
• Edit the proposal to ensure it is clear, concise, and easy to understand.
• Have a colleague or mentor review the proposal to provide feedback and suggestions.

Step 12: Submit the Proposal

• Submit the proposal to the client in the format requested, such as electronic or hard copy.
• Follow up with the client to ensure they have received the proposal and to answer any questions they may have.

By following these steps, you can create a compelling business proposal that showcases your company's capabilities and value proposition, and helps you win new business.