Government contractors and procurement agents, alike, can take advantage of a streamlined bidding process that provides numerous benefits thanks to eBidding. No more giant paper proposals that must be printed out and dropped off in person, and with the pandemic keeping people home, going digital has been the only option in some cases. eBidding takes out all the hassle and allows the procurement process to take place quickly and efficiently, and all online. How to write an RFP and submit online may be new for some. So how can businesses make sure they’re putting their best foot forward? Here are three steps to filling out a winning eBid:
1. Don’t skip the basics
Just like with a paper proposal, you’ll want to make sure to complete some basic best practices. This includes doing research, following all the instructions, and turning the bid in on time. While eBidding does facilitate quick replies, businesses that take the time to research what’s most important to the department or procurement agent will find themselves with a more focused and detailed proposal. Additionally, following the instructions and meeting the deadline will help the procurement agent confirm you match their needs and are serious about securing the job.
2. Customize for the best connection
eBidding allows businesses to take previous proposals and copy/paste information into each new bid. While this may work for some line items, it’s certainly not a best practice for the entire proposal. Customize your proposal to make the best connection with the procurement agent. This will prove that you are paying attention and not just bidding for the sake of bidding. Customize by addressing the procurement agent and department by name, tweaking your content and language to be specific to this project, and linking out (Yeah, you can use links in an eBid!) to similar projects you’ve completed.
3. Review, review, review
Have you ever shot off a quick email or text message and then realized you had a few typos? It might not be a big deal with family or friends but is certainly not ideal for professional communication. The temptation to click submit right after filling out an eBid can be tremendous, especially when you are excited to win the RFP. Stop! Make sure to proofread and review your bid before submitting it. Just like with a paper proposal, you may want a co-worker to review it or come back the next day with fresh eyes and proofread it yourself. Spelling, punctuation, grammar, and specialized industry terms should all be used properly. If there are simple proofing errors in your proposal a procurement agent may feel like you’ll rush through their project without attention to detail as well, so make sure to review before you submit.
Your winning eBid
Learning how to write an RFP and submit online is easy! In order to increase your chances of landing that next eBid, follow these three simple steps. Complete the basics like a professional, customize the content to stand out, and review before clicking send. These small changes can make all the difference in winning an eBid.
What best practices have you found for creating your eBids?