How to Write a Job Bid

When businesses call contractors to give them a bid, the contractor is required to provide a written proposal of the services it will provide and an exact amount it will charge. Bids need to be concise and answer all the questions necessary for businesses to make an assessment. Most companies go for low bid, but some don't and write justifications for why they choose not to go with the low bid. Either way, it's important for contractors to write bids and stick to the amount as well as to turn them in on time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Get the exact specifications for the project you need to bid on. Some places post a Request for Quotation (RFQ) and ask bidders for very specific information. Read over the specs carefully and prepare the documentation necessary. Follow instructions exactly.

2. Write your official bid. Your bid should look official and be typed on your company letterhead. Don't write a bid on a template. Personalize your bid with the name of the company for which you are bidding on a project, and make the bid flow from point to point, following the RFQ that was issued by the company.

3. Break down costs. Companies want to know how much you are charging per hour, per unit and/or per item. As you break down the costs accordingly, don't leave it up to them to total everything up. Include exact totals. Contractors that bid only per unit or include breakdowns without totals make it appear as if they are hiding something. Usually, it's the fact that they charge more than others!

4. It's not tacky to invite your potential clients to visit your website for further samples of similar projects you've completed. These projects can be part of your online gallery of photos, articles, documents and PDFs that you keep as a portfolio. Even if the potential customer has already seen it, it's a good idea to keep a bid and website link together in case the company wants to check the references again when choosing the bid.

5. Follow up. If you haven't heard back, call or email the business to check on your bid status and see if it has any further questions. Thank the company again for letting you submit your bid, and remind it of your interest and availability.

Resources

• How to write a bid

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Fax without a fax machine! Over 11 million people use eFax® to fax online. Get your free trial today
• Onebox® - Virtual Phone System for Small/Medium Businesses. Service includes Toll Free, Local Number, Call Forwarding, Voicemail, Online Fax & more. Free Trial!