Proposal Writing Skills

Writing a winning proposal, whether it is intended to attract sales or secure funding for a project, requires the ability to persuade. Thus, proposal writing skills are valuable when conducting business, soliciting funds for nonprofit agencies and gaining support for projects in government organizations.

Skills

Successful proposal writing requires more than the ability to write well. Proposal writers must have outstanding research and analysis skills as well.

Considerations

A key skill in proposal writing is the ability to express complex ideas in simple language. This means keeping technical jargon to a minimum so that all readers, regardless of technical knowledge, will understand the proposal.

Education

Many consultants offer workshops on proposal writing. In addition, many college courses in business and technical writing include specific instruction for composing proposals.

Benefits

Proposal writing skills enable professionals to craft needs assessments supported by evidence, chart measurable goals and demonstrate a clear link between the proposed project and the client's needs.

Types

Some courses in proposal writing skills also include training on feasibility studies. These close cousins of proposals are written to demonstrate the practicality of a proposed project or service. Feasibility studies may examine costs, alternatives and likely effects.

Resources

• Proposal Writing Tips