Commonly made mistakes in a business proposal by freelancers
One of the biggest differences between an employee and a freelancer is that the former is allotted work by the organization while the latter has to find it himself. A freelancer is his own manager, team leader and CEO.
Acquiring freelance projects can be a daunting task if you are a fresher and don’t know how to pitch to a client. The presentation and content of the business proposal decides whether you will get the assignment or not. You may have the best of skills and portfolio, but if your business proposal doesn’t sell you, you won’t get the work. Hence having a good and solid business proposal is essential. We have listed below some common mistakes which freelancers make. Make sure you don’t make them.
Do not copy from others
Although it is an easy way of making the business proposal quickly, the chances of not making an impression also increases. Every client is different and so are his requirements. For a freelancer, it is mandatory to understand what actually a client needs and making the proposal accordingly, and that too an original one.
Avoid focussing on money
Everyone works for money, there’s no denying that. But, putting an emphasis on it creates your image as if you are only focussed on the payment and not on the quality of work. Mentioning a tentative amount at some point is alright but highlighting it in the proposal should be strictly avoided.
Also, if possible, you shouldn’t mention the exact cost of the assignment. Thus, leaving some room for bargain.
Choose the right medium
Many experienced freelancers believe that the medium of business proposal matters. When an employer receives the proposal in the word document format, he needs to take a print, sign, scan and send. Sounds pretty demanding, doesn’t it?
A better way is to send the proposal using tools such as Bidsketch which is widely used by freelancers across the world. It lets a person electronically sign the proposal.
It shouldn’t be too long
No one likes to go through long documents and so does your potential client. You need to mention all the essentials of the business, making it short, clear and up-to-the-point is important though. Studies on freelancers suggest that shorter proposals are more likely to be given emphasis as compared to the long and comprehensive ones.
Mention the client’s returns and benefits
A business proposal normally consists of what a freelancer will do and how he will do. But, what many ignore is mentioning how a freelancer is unique and why should a client invest in that particular individual. It is always wise to make a separate section for this. Do not include it like an advertisement but at least claim the services which you are confident you can deliver.
Do not forget to follow up
Once you have sent your proposal, it’s not over. It is important to follow up with the client asking him what he thinks about the proposal.
Many freelancers hesitate to follow up thinking it would look like pestering. However, often it happens that the client overlooks it because he has received a lot of proposals. Re-approaching can also get you noticed and show him that you are interested.
