Written by Ivan Walsh. Follow me on Twitter

Yesterday, we looked at the mistakes to avoid when writing your first business proposal. Now, let’s look at how to do it right.

Be specific. Present a clear idea and a focused plan.

1. Connect your ideas with the client’s needs. Avoid suggesting options, technologies outside the scope of the requirement. Stay focused.
2. Check if staff is in place to help plan and implement the project.
3. Check that all activities are well thought-out and will promote the objectives of the proposal
4. Ensure that the budget and budget narrative reflect and explain all proposed activities.
5. Is the writing clear, grammatically correct, with no typos?
6. Does the proposal follows the RFP’s format requirements? Also called the Invitation To Tender.

Remember: define your audience. If you don’t know who you’re writing for, it’s unlikely you’ll hit the mark.