Proposals

What to include in a proposal readiness check

A proposal readiness check is not a rewrite for style alone. It is a structured look at whether the proposal answers the decision-maker's real questions before the deadline arrives.

Check the basics

• Who is the proposal for?
• What problem does it solve?
• What exactly is being offered?
• What evidence supports the claims?
• What will it cost?
• What happens next if they say yes?

Look for evidence gaps

Strong proposals connect claims to proof. Examples, dates, numbers, named experience, constraints, and delivery assumptions all help. Unsupported confidence can make a proposal feel weaker, not stronger.

Check for hidden exclusions

If the proposal depends on client input, third-party approval, data access, travel, technology, or a specific timeline, say so. A clear assumption is better than a quiet surprise after approval.

Make the summary useful

The opening summary should help someone remember the proposal after reading many others. Keep it plain, specific, and connected to the buyer's outcome.