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Quotes and Proposals

Job Proposals 101

Posted on by lwidmer

What I’m listening to: When We Were Young by Adele  A late post today. It’s raining here — exactly what we needed. But rain makes me want to curl up somewhere comfy and read. That’s actually on my agenda today. First, though, I have to outline a project and get my own project off the ground….

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  1. Cathy Miller Avatar
    Cathy Miller

    I find I tend to give formal proposals more often when the client is either unsure of what all they want to contract for or if they have multiple projects. For the first scenario, I offer options – kind of high/low quote – e.g., Option #1 – A, B, C, Option #2 Perhaps just A, or B or C.

    For multiple projects, I provide the scope, timeline, and terms for each project. I customize each proposal with the prospect’s logo/branded colors so it doesn’t look too template – y (how’s that for a new word?) 😉 And, of course, it has my business header, business info.

    I don’t give a formal proposal if the client is inquiring about a single, defined project. I do provide a fee range in quotes and all contracted projects receive my Statement of Work, documenting the Scope of Services, Timeline, Fees and Terms.

    Reply
    1. lwidmer Avatar
      lwidmer

      That’s a great option, Cathy (and I love the new word!). Do you use the optional method with each proposal, or just those who are on the fence?

      I like your system overall. Sounds quite effective.

    2. Cathy Miller Avatar
      Cathy Miller

      I would say I use options more often than not, except when the prospect has very specific instructions. Thanks, Lori.

    3. lwidmer Avatar
      lwidmer

      It’s actually quite smart. Those on the fence will say “Well, let’s try the lower priced option” in which case, you’ve got a sale. Then they’ll be satisfied (because you ARE Cathy Miller) and they’ll become repeat customers.

      Really smart!

    4. Paula Hendrickson Avatar
      Paula Hendrickson

      Great tips, Lori. I’ve never used any of the Word Templates, but after reading this I think I’ll dig into those some more.

      Another benefit of a stand-alone proposal, instead of including it in an email: it’s easier for clients to save and come back to as needed. Easier than searching though email threads for the original email proposal!

    5. lwidmer Avatar
      lwidmer

      Very good point, Paula! One I should have remembered — I’m constantly trying to locate stuff. 🙂

  2. Eileen Avatar
    Eileen

    Great discussion. I wanted to chime in and say that I put a statement on my proposals that goes something like this: “The terms of this proposal are good for 30 days; after that, the terms are subject to change.” That way, I’m not locked into a price that I might want to raise later for any reason.

    Reply
    1. lwidmer Avatar
      lwidmer

      That’s a good addition, Eileen. It also creates a bit of urgency — not a bad sales feature at all!

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