Guidelines for Writing a Proposal
A proposal is a possible solution to a problem or a plan to fulfil a need. Proposals are used for various purposes in the workplace. The ultimate goal is to persuade the audience to accept a plan and take action.
Understanding who is going to read your proposal will help you decide what information should be included and how it should be structured.
Steps for writing a proposal (letter):
- Introduce yourself and provide background information.
- State your purpose for the proposal.
- Define your goals and objectives in relation to the problem/ need.
- Describe your plan; highlight what sets you apart if you are competing with others.
- Briefly discuss the budget and how funds will be used.
- Finish with a call to action, and request a follow-up.
- Thank your audience and provide your contact details.
Tips for writing a proposal:
- Start with an outline – it makes you better focused and the message intact.
- Include hard data and visuals – they make your proposal convincing and attractive.
- Keep it simple – let your audience grab your proposal without paying any conscious effort.
- Proofread carefully - make sure to read and reread the proposal for any typos or errors in grammar or content.
Resources:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-proposal-letter
https://blog.hubspot.com/sales/how-to-write-business-proposal