Tender Writing done Right – How to write a strong tender



Tender writing involves a simple concept – the concept of buying and selling.  Just as shop offer various items for sale, a tenderer has something of value to sell whether this be a particular job that needs doing, a contract for ongoing employment or equipment to sell. In return the tenderee is able to buy the item for sale by offering a solution such as how they will complete the job, how they can provide ongoing employment or what price they will pay to buy the equipment that is for sale.  In a buy / sell relationship both parties receive a benefit but ultimately it is the seller that has the final say on what they want for the item or service they are offering. 

Give this information it should be no surprise that tender writers needs to present the best possible solution to the tenderer. But how does a tender writer do this? What should a tender writer focus on to win over the sale and buy the contract? Here are some ideas to help you in your tender writing journey. 
Showcase the organisations understanding of the tender and its ability to meet the requirements:

A tender writer must thoroughly read each tender offer individually and make an assessment as to whether the organisation can meet the requirements of the tender. To do this a tender writer must ensure that:
  • The organisation can deliver on what is being asked of it by the tenderer
  • The organisation has the equipment and resources required to do what is being asked
  • The organisation strategically aligns with the tenderer including business ethics, services, size, resources and location. There is no point applying for a tender that requires construction equipment if your sell stationary nor applying for a tender that requires you to be in Brisbane when your business is in Sydney. 
  • The tender will provide the organisation with some benefit. More often than not this is a financial benefit. If the opportunity does not provide the organisation with a benefit then say ‘no’! But remember to do this politely and respectfully because you can never be too sure when another opportunity may arise. 

Showcase the organisations products and services.

All organisations have products and/or services that they sell. Tender writing involves picking out the items that you have on offer that will best fit the seller’s needs. Once you have done this a tender writers job is to showcase these products and /or services by:

  • Explaining clearly how and why these products and / or services are the best fit for the job
  • Showing attention to detail. What is it exactly about this product and / or service that will cover the tenderers needs. Are there other services and / or products that could do the job and why is yours better?
  • Explaining ‘the latest’.  Many people assume that the latest and the more up to date modern equipment and / or service is the best quality. So if you have something that is new to the market or offers a technological advantage take the time to showcase this in your tender writing application. 

Showcase the organisations skills and talents

As a tender writer it is important to showcase the skills and talents of the staff who will be involved in the operations of the organisation if the tender is won. Ask yourself questions such as who will be undertaking the service?, and what skills do they have? It is important that prior to applying for the tender an organisation undertake a project management plan to ensure that they have the right staff (including the right skill sets) available to complete the tender requirements. 

Showcase the organisations capabilities including an ability to be flexible

Tender writers need to be able to creatively showcase the capabilities of the organisation and include information on how they cope with sudden changes. Emphasise the ability to be flexible within the organisation and how you will adjust resources and staff accordingly. 

Showcase the organisations ability to read and answer questions

This should be a simple one but more often than not tender writers miss the mark when answering questions on a tender application. Read the question thoroughly and ensure that you are providing the right information. If you are unsure there are always people you can contact to assist you along the way. 

If you’re not having much luck with tender writing, then consider getting some professional help.  Red Tape Busters are specialists in tender writing so why not visit http://www.redtapebusters.com/  for more information. We are specialists in providing the following services:
  • Lobbying;
  • Tender Writing;
  • Grant Writing;
  • Resumes/Job Applications;
  • Organisational/Business Development.

Please also “friend” or “like” us on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/RedTapeBustersShaneBowering, follow us on Twitter – Red Tape Busters or check us out on YouTube just search for Red Tape Busters.  

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