Let's be real, crafting good proposals is tough and pricey in terms of time and resources. That's exactly why we cooked up Penna - a platform that lets you whip up quotes in the least amount of time possible, and more effectively, by analyzing the structures of top-notch agencies.
But... do you really need to create a proposal for every potential project?
Our experience shouts a resounding no.
Here's when you should and when you might want to skip it.
When you should create a proposal
1. When you're dealing with a new client
Every time a new client approaches you, it's a good idea to create a proposal. This will need more time, but with a well-crafted proposal, you can show off your expertise and professionalism. It's also a great way to set the tone for the project and establish a good relationship with the client.
2. When the project is not clear enough
By trying to write a proposal, you'll be forced to think about the project in detail. This will help you to understand the project better and ask the right questions to the client.
The client will feel you are spending time and effort to understand their needs, and this will help you to build trust and reciprocity with them, setting up a good foundation for the project.
3. When you want to show off your experience to ask for a higher price
If you're confident in your skills and want to ask for a higher price, a proposal is a great way to show off your experience and justify an higher price.
A well-crafted proposal can help you to communicate the value of your work , how you handle projects like the one the client is asking for, and how you can help them to achieve their goals.
This will help the client to understand the value of your work and justify the higher price.
When you might want to skip it:
1. When you're dealing with a long-term client
If you have a long-term client, you might want to skip the proposal and go straight to the contract.
This will not only make you to save time, you will also make the client feel you trust them and you're confident in your skills.
2. When the price is already set and not negotiable
If you have a fixed offer and the price is not negotiable, you might want to skip the proposal.
When the price is already set, the proposal will not add any value to the client and it will only make you time and resources.
3. When the client is in a hurry and you're confident in your skills
If the client is in a hurry and you're confident in your skills, creating a good proposal could be not worth the time.
If the client shows respect for you and your work and is in a hurry, just ask for what you need to work with.
You will demosntrate you're confident in your skills.
Just make sure to communicate clearly what you need to work with him and make clear the terms of the project.
That's it! In the end, you could skip the proposal when you can, and create it when you need to make a good impression, understand the project better, or justify a higher price.