It is a well known fact that the success of any business depends on its ability to make high sales volume. However, making that sale is not always simple since you will need a sales proposal. A sales proposal is simply a well written pitch created by seasoned sales professional that gives an outline of an idea, service of product for the client to generate interest. Sometimes, it contains a little demonstration of how the new idea or product will be of benefit to the client. Many people have ended up making a mockery of their sales proposal because they believe the procedure for creating a very good proposal is very complicated.
The sales proposal is a comprehensive document and must be well written in order to generate interest. While a sales proposal can be written by any sales professional, it is important to follow a well laid down template. The sales proposal format helps to create sales proposals that stand out. Although there are many formats of a sales proposal, all good sales proposal have some key things in common. Every sales proposal template must include the purpose, executive summary, service level agreement, a step by step plan of action, project delivery timelines, pricing and terms, your approach among other valuable information.
Writing a sales proposal is an unavoidable part of business operations. Some sales proposal is as a direct response to a request for proposal call win which you answer some particular questions while some are for following up to a sales call or just scouting for new sales contract. No matter the condition, creating a good sales proposal can be achieved by the following steps.
Step1
The first step is to start writing your sales proposal on a company’s letter head. Include the account number, name of the sales person making the pitch, name of the individual the sales proposal is addressed to and the contact information.
Step2
You are expected to itemize and describe elements of the sales agreement. It could be for purchase of product, a service or an ongoing contractual agreement.
Step3
Where the sales proposal is as a direct response for a request for proposal call from a company, it is important to write the proposal following all the specific government outlined in the request for proposal document. Note that the request for proposal varies from companies and types of project involved, therefore, it is expected that you respond by sending a unique sales proposal matching the requirements.
Step4
Where the sales proposal is a s a result of an initial consultation with a customer, the sales proposal is expected to discuss specific element of the purchase that is previously discussed with the customer. Note that the proposal should start with the recap of the conversation, a breakdown of agreement and terms and condition of the company.
Step5
You are expected to include a contractual agreement at the end of the sales proposal. It should include the cost details, timeline and delivery all spelt out in a manner that is clear to all parties involved.
Step6
Create a column for the signatories of all parties to the proposal and ensure you proofread document before the presentation.
1
It is important to understand that one of the best ways to capture your prospect attention in your sales proposal is to first discuss your understanding of their situation before any other thing else. A good sales proposal must first highlight the problems their prospect is facing and how the problem impacts their business. This should come at the first page not later in the proposal.
2
Do not write too long proposals. In fact, decision makers are always not in the mood to read long proposals. Make your proposals short and concise and provide back up if needed. Although while making it short, you must ensure that the information provided is adequate for the proposal.
3
Summarize your sales proposals at the last stage of your proposal document. Most decision makers will jump directly to the last page in searching for a summary instead of going through the details. This is a way of saving time for decision makers. However, ensure you use bullet point summary so as to capture all information in just few points.
Ask the Community
Still get confused or have more suggestions? Leave your thoughts to Community Center and we will reply within 24 hours.