Becoming A Successful Tender Writer?

The tender writing application process provides both short-term and long-term opportunities to businesses that may not have has access to previously or may not have thought possible for them. These tender writing applications need careful consideration, thought, planning and effort put into them in order to be successful. Businesses must understand that there is no gain in hand passing tender writing applications to an existing employee such as an administration assistant, media consultant or even a senior manager who does not have the skills to effectively write the tender application. Businesses must realise is that tender application writing is a craft that takes time and a multitude of skills. Tender application writing requires a particular type of person who has the necessary skills and abilities to create a document that addresses all the technical parts required. What are some of the qualities make up a successful tender application writer? Why should organisations think about employing a tender writer for their tender writing applications? Here are the top skills we see as essential for a tender writer.

Excellent communication skills both verbal and written 
It is probably obvious that tender application writers must also have superior written communication skills in order to answer all questions in most clear and concise way possible. However, it is important to note that tender application writing is not just about answering a set of questions posed in a document. What may not be as clear is that tender application writers must also have excellent verbal communication skills in order to communicate with the tenderer to discuss in more detail the requirements and expectations of the tender application. They may also be required to communicate verbally with clients, customers and referees that can provide supporting evidence for the application. So, make sure that whoever you choose to undertake your tender application is able to communicate both verbally and in a written form.

Time management skills and the ability to work under pressure
Tender application writers must be able to work well under pressure and be aware of the time frames associated with the tender they are applying for. An experienced tender application writer will plan out the tender writing process, looking at each question individually and calculating what evidence may be needed to support the question. The writer will allow time for proof reading and review by senior management staff as well as additional time to make any changes required. It should never be underestimated how long a tender may take to write and working to a plan assist in this process. Make sure to ask your tender writer for their written plan on how they will achieve the final document within the designated timeframes. This will provide you with a clear understanding of the process and direction they are taking as well as giving you an idea of the time you need to set aside to review the document.

Ability to think outside the box
Tender writing often requires creatively in order to answer the questions asked. Tender application writers must be able to show tenderers that they can offer them the best service and the most benefits. They want to see an organisation that stands out, one that goes above and beyond and one that can address issues and problems should they arise. Answers that think ‘outside of the box’ to produce excellent benefits for the tenderer will be remembered and go a long way towards your success. While it is important to be creative remember to always be honest and don’t over exaggerate what you can achieve. If you are successful you will be locked into what you have said you can do. Don’t make the mistake of not being able to deliver on your promises.

Ability to interpret questions 
Tender application writers must have a strong ability to be able to decipher the questions asked in a tender application, sort through the relevant information and then clearly and concisely present this information in a written format. While we need to be creative in our answers it is vitally important that answers address the questions asked. Don’t go off on irrelevant tangents that provide no answer to the actual question. Don’t put information in just to make your answer look longer and /or more professional. All it takes to win a tender is clear and concise information that directly answers the questions asked.  

Research and computer skills
More often than not tender application writing required significant research. Tenderers will request information relating to company profiles, policies and procedures, staff inductions and training, financial statements just to name a few. Therefore, tender writers must have the ability to research the necessary documentation, interpret it and pull out the essential components required to complete the tender. They must then attach this documentation to the relevant questions and ensure that it is references correctly. Of course, in this day and age it goes without saying that this will be collected and submitted electronically. So of course your chose tender written must be familiar with email, spreadsheets, budgets and word documents just to name a few.

Before you undertake your next tender writing project perhaps think about who is the most suited person for the job. Is there actually someone with the required skills within your organisation or do you need to outsource the task for success? Red Tape Busters has been operating for over 15 years and has hand-picked its consultant to ensure that they have all the tender writing skills mentioned above. Each consultant has worked in the industry for several years and will work with you to produce the best tender possible. Red Tape Busters are specialist in grant and tender writing and can help your organisation or business win grant funding or achieve successes with tenders. 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.

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