So, what do Megamind and business writers have in common? Here’s a clue from one of my favourite parts in the movie. Titan: This town isn't big enough for two supervillains! Megamind: Oh, you're a villain all right, just not a SUPER one! Titan: Oh yeah? What's the difference? Megamind: … [Read more...]
37 Proposal Writing Secrets
August 31, 2011 by
This short course on proposal writing reminds us that our business proposal does not stand alone. It is process of a larger process that involves planning, research, writing, editing, proofing, submission and acceptance. This list gives 37 ways to improve your next proposal. Scroll through it and … [Read more...]
25 Ways to Improve Business Proposals
January 28, 2011 by
Writing Business Proposals is easy. It’s other activities that are hard. Your Business Proposal may be the best priced, with the right people, and the top qualifications, but, if you overlook one critical business requirement, your bid gets rejected. We want to avoid this, right? Proposal … [Read more...]
9 Business Proposals Formating Tips
January 4, 2011 by
Last week we looked at how to format your Business Proposal, use a Style Guide, select the right type of font, language and writing style to impress the proposal evaluation team. Let’s look at other ways you can improve your next Business Proposal or Grant application. 1. Proofreading Always … [Read more...]
Business Proposals Format, Style and Presentation Tips – Part 1
January 1, 2011 by
What’s the best way to format your Business Proposal? Should you use a Style Guide? I've been writing and reviewing Business Proposals for over fifteen years and, while there are exceptions, the following guidelines will help you improve the look and feel of your next Business Proposal. Business … [Read more...]
Request For Proposals: Writing the Format Section
December 10, 2010 by
What’s the quickest way to evaluate responses to your Request For Proposals? One way to speed up the evaluation and award process is to create a Format section in your RFP document. RFP Template – Sample Costs Format Understanding the RFP Format section Most format Request For Proposals (RFP) … [Read more...]
How to Write Abstracts For Business Proposals
October 25, 2010 by
Philip Koopman, at Carnegie Mellon University, reminds us that, “Writing an efficient abstract is hard work, but will repay you with increased impact on the world by enticing people to read your publications. Make sure that all the components of a good abstract are included in the next one you … [Read more...]
Blah! Blah! Blah! Is that how your Business Proposal really starts?
October 12, 2010 by
I evaluate Business Proposals. I do this every week. In the last fifteen years, I’ve seen hundreds of business proposals ranging from the large Consultancies to one-man/women businesses. Part of evaluating a proposal is checking that the numbers add up but also to see if the project in question is … [Read more...]
The Warren Buffet Guide to Persuasive Business Writing
September 20, 2010 by
“For more than forty years, I’ve studied the documents that public companies file. Too often, I’ve been unable to decipher just what is being said or, worse yet, had to conclude that nothing was being said. If corporate lawyers and their clients follow the advice in this handbook, my life is going … [Read more...]
Sherlock Holmes Guide to Finding Hidden Styles in Microsoft Word 2007?
June 13, 2010 by
Sandra wants to know where is the Styles menu option in Microsoft Word 2007. She wants to update her new business plan and add Notes, Messages, Quotes and other pre-formatted styles. The Styles in Microsoft Word 2003 and 2007 seem to be different. She’s right. The Microsoft Word user … [Read more...]