Once you have prepared your first document you will be able to use it again when tendering for similar work or just re-use parts of it for different types of contract. Having a core tender document in place will save you time and resource when competing for future work.
Depending on the size of the job you are competing for, the documents you will be expected to supply can range from a basic letter with quotes and a description of your products and services to a very detailed outline of how you can fulfil the brief given in the tender invite. Public sector work in particular is often subject to very specific and more formal tendering processes.
So what do you actually need to think about before going ahead?
- Ask yourself if the opportunity is right for you.
- Have you got all the information you need? If you need more information ask for it.
- Make sure you have the resources you need to deliver.
- Work out your costs and ensure you can make a profit that justifies your efforts.
Once you have decided to go ahead summarise how you want approach your tender document:
- Focus on your client.
- Demonstrate you understand what the client wants.
- Be creative and make suggestions.
And finally be sure to include all the information a client will expect:
- Purpose and origin of your bid.
- Summarise past experience and credentials for this work.
- Specify how you will deliver and include timescales.
- Sell the benefits and value of using your organisation.
- Demonstrate your team's skills.
- Explain how you will manage the project.
- Give details of your pricing.
- Be realistic, this includes identifying potential problems.
- Do not make promises you won’t be able to keep.
For more details on preparing your documents read our complete guide to tendering which includes many more tips on preparing and editing your tender document to give you a maximum chance of winning the contract.
Finding tender opportunitiesOur tender opportunities section lists the main portals for local, national and international contract opportunities, take a look!
Access to help and supportIf you would like to talk about tendering for contracts and how we could support your business, call the business adviser team on 0845 00 66 888 or use our contact us form.