We explore 4 easy ways to strengthen your proposals by avoiding some key project proposal mistakes that confuse clients and delay decisions.
Ever sent a proposal bid and heard… nothing? Or maybe you got a response, but it was full of questions instead of a clear yes? Or how about the “I’ll think about it”?
If that sounds familiar, your proposal might be creating doubt instead of confidence.
There’s a real art and also a bit of a science to writing a good proposal. So here are four common project proposal mistakes, AND how you can fix them.👇
4 Proposal Mistakes That Crop Up Again And Again
Project Proposal Mistake 1: DON’T Skip the Client’s Pain Point Or Desire
Often, I see businesses copy and paste text directly from the client’s website into the proposal bid. But that doesn’t show deep understanding of the problem, something your client really desires.
Instead: show your client you understand their unique problem.
✅ Ask plenty of clarifying questions before you start writing the proposal and then acknowledge the challenge in their own words.
✅ Explain what’s at stake if they don’t fix it.
✅ Paint a picture of success after working with you.
Project Proposal Mistake 2: DON’T Offer A Menu Of Services As The Solution
Listing multiple service options leaves it to the client to figure out what they need. One of the most common project proposal mistakes is failing to recognise that confused clients don’t say YES.
Instead: It’s your job to offer the solution in your project proposal.
✅ Provide a clear solution for their problem.
✅ Explain why it’s the right approach.
✅ Show how it leads to their desired result.
Project Proposal Mistake 3: DON’T Be Vague In Your Pricing
Vague pricing is another common project proposal mistake because, like in mistake 3, it leads to hesitation. Clients wonder: What’s included? Are there hidden fees?
Instead: Leave no room for doubt around the price of the solution you offer.
✅ Clearly outline what they get at each price point. Itemise the inclusions.
✅ Be upfront about additional costs.
✅ Highlight the value, not just the cost.
Project Proposal Mistake 4: DON’T Make Yourself The Main Character Of The Proposal
Clients care most about their own needs. It’s tempting to give them all the skills and qualifications you have, but think about this: they’ve contacted you, so they already trust you’ve got the chops.
Instead: focus on the client.
✅ Start with their goal and challenge.
✅ Keep your "About Us" section brief and relevant.
✅ Only mention your expertise as it is relevant to their problem.
Fix these four common mistakes, and your proposals will convert more often, with less hesitation from potential clients.
Do You Want Some Help With That?
Keen on making it easy for clients to say YES to your proposal, but need a simple proposal template for small business to get you on your way? I’ve got you!
Download my “Irresistible Proposal Blueprint” and start improving your project proposals today! 🎉
