Creating a tender submission that genuinely stands out is about going beyond standard “best practice”. While it’s tempting to dive straight into the details, starting with a compelling executive summary can significantly influence the assessor’s first impression. Among the most valuable tender writing tips is to succinctly capture the essence of your proposal right at the beginning. Clearly outline your core offering, highlight your unique selling points, and briefly mention how your approach specifically aligns with the client’s requirements.
Keep the executive summary concise yet persuasive—ideally no more than one page. Your goal is to intrigue the reader enough to encourage a thorough examination of your entire submission. Use positive, confident language and ensure the summary is polished, reflecting the overall professionalism of your bid.
Personalise and Align Your Submission
Standardised submissions rarely make an impression. Tailor your tender specifically to the client’s needs and objectives. Demonstrate a clear understanding of their challenges, goals, and even organisational culture. Use their language, reference their strategic aims, and ensure your proposal directly addresses every point outlined in their brief. Personalising your submission not only shows thoroughness but builds trust and engagement.
Additionally, highlighting your past successes through relevant, tailored case studies can reinforce credibility. Select examples closely related to the project you’re bidding for, showcasing similar challenges you’ve successfully addressed in the past. Clearly articulate the outcomes achieved, emphasising tangible benefits and measurable results. This demonstrates capability and makes your bid highly relevant.
Presentation Matters: Make it Engaging
Content quality is paramount, but presentation significantly impacts how assessors perceive your tender. Professional, visually appealing submissions stand out for all the right reasons. Simple strategies, such as using clear headings, short paragraphs, bullet points, and carefully selected graphics or charts, can greatly enhance readability. Always ensure the layout complements and reinforces your content rather than distracting from it.
For organisations looking for additional support, partnering with specialists like Kittle Group can ensure your submission is polished, professional, and impactful. Experts can help refine your message, structure the document effectively, and ensure visual appeal aligns with content quality.
Proofread, Edit, and Get Feedback
Never underestimate the importance of rigorous proofreading and editing. Even minor errors can undermine credibility and professionalism. Allocate sufficient time to carefully review your document, ideally involving multiple reviewers. Fresh eyes can spot inconsistencies or ambiguities you might overlook after spending significant time with the content.
Additionally, consider seeking feedback from colleagues or external experts who understand tender submissions. Constructive criticism can identify areas needing further clarification, adjustment, or strengthening. Acting on this feedback ensures your final submission is not only free of errors but is compelling, clear, and convincing. A thoroughly vetted tender demonstrates commitment, professionalism, and attention to detail, significantly enhancing your chances of success.
