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5 Signs You Might Just Need a Bid Writing Consultant
Let’s face it: writing bids can be a bit like DIY. In theory, anyone can do it. But in practice, without the right tools, time, and know-how, you might just end up with a wobbly shelf – or worse, a lost contract.
Whether you’re a small business dipping your toe into public sector tenders or a seasoned supplier with a growing pile of bid deadlines, here are five signs it might be time to bring in a bid writing consultant to help steady the ship.
1. You’re great at what you do, but can’t quite put it into words
If you find yourself staring at a blank Word document thinking, “How do I make drainage maintenance sound interesting?” – you’re not alone. Many successful businesses struggle to turn their day-to-day work into persuasive, structured responses that score well. A consultant brings an outside perspective and experience to help shape your value into responses that actually win.
2. You keep missing out by a few points
You get the feedback: “Close second,” “Just pipped to the post,” or the classic “You were strong on delivery but weak on added value.” It’s frustrating, especially when you know you’re more than capable. A bid writing expert can help you fill those gaps by reviewing past submissions and offering clear, practical improvements. Take a look at this 4-week guide to improving your bid writing if you’re keen to get better results.
3. You have no idea what they’re really asking for
Sometimes, tender questions feel like they’re written in a different language. What exactly does “social value contribution metrics” mean, anyway? If you find yourself second-guessing what buyers want, a consultant can make sense of the jargon and match your answers to what they’re really after.
4. Your team is already stretched
Adding a 30-page tender to your project manager’s to-do list is a recipe for stress and rushed answers. Bringing in a dedicated consultant means your team can stick to their day jobs, while the bid is written properly and professionally.
5. You’re new to bidding (or it’s been a while)
Getting started with tenders or jumping back in after a break can feel overwhelming. There’s the portal, the policies, the pricing, and the pesky deadlines. Having someone on your side who understands the process inside out makes a real difference. If you’re not sure where to begin, start with this comprehensive guide to bid writing to get your bearings.
