Responding to an RFP (request for proposal) is a momentous decision, and it’s up to a potential partner to write a proposal that proves they can solve the company’s needs. When business moves fast (as it always seems to do), straightforward approaches can fall by the wayside to meet a tight deadline. The tips given here can help businesses stay on track and craft an effective response to a request for proposal.
Just Answer the Question
If the request for proposal includes questions, the respondent should answer them as accurately and honestly as possible. Often, a person can get so involved in creating a response that they forget to answer the question, and longer answers aren’t always better. By answering a potential partner’s questions upfront, they don’t have to spend time figuring out the meaning hidden in a response.
Avoid Form Responses
Using boilerplate content such as an rfp template excel is great because the accuracy of the information is not in question. However, that doesn’t mean it has to sound like a form letter. Avoid sending out un-customized proposals, even when there are dozens of RFPs to create. There’s a purpose behind every question, and potential partners should tailor their answers to the specific problems clients are trying to solve.
Ask Questions When in Doubt
Silently wondering about a question’s meaning won’t get the project done any sooner. Some organizations allot time for vendors to ask questions, and those vendors should start early, read through requirements, and ask questions for clarification purposes. If there’s no defined Q&A period, reach out to a contact with TEC for more information.
Keep an Eye on Review Times
Everyone has different priorities, and reviews often get put off until the last minute. Partners should consider this when they create a timeline, and they should consider the complexity of the review process when doing so.
Even the most well-versed marketers encounter difficulties in responding to RFPs, especially when they are abundant. Requests for proposal are here for the long term, and partners should tweak their processes to benefit from the effort and time invested in RFP response.