Bid writing is both a vital and complex process when it comes to securing contracts. Lauren Rufus, an experienced bid writer at Winning Tenders, shares her expertise on the art of crafting bids that stand out and are more likely to secure success. In this interview, Lauren discusses the challenges, strategies and rewards of her profession.
Collaboration in Bid Writing
When asked what she enjoys most about bid writing, Lauren highlights the importance of collaboration with clients.
“What I enjoy most about bid writing is working closely with clients to understand their unique approaches and differentiators,” Lauren explains. “Turning that information into carefully crafted narratives that help them win new business is incredibly fulfilling.”
For Lauren, collaboration is key to uncovering the small but significant details that truly showcase a business’s strengths. “It’s those small nuggets of evidence that really make the difference in demonstrating what a business can do,” she says. By working hand-in-hand with clients, she helps bring their strengths to the forefront, ensuring their bids stand out in a competitive market.
The Complexities of Bid Requirements
Bid writing presents its challenges and according to Lauren, the most difficult part is managing the strict timelines and extensive requirements laid out by buyers.
“The timelines and the scope of requirements can be quite demanding,” Lauren explains. “Buyers often provide multiple questionnaires, pricing documents, method statements and forms, all of which need to be completed to a high standard. It can feel overwhelming.”
However, Winning Tender’s experience proves invaluable in managing these challenges. “Our support is particularly beneficial because we are so familiar with handling complex tender documents and processes,” she notes. With Winning Tender’s expertise, businesses can feel confident that their bids are not only compliant but also competitive.
Making Bids Stand Out
Creativity plays a crucial role in ensuring that bids stand out from the competition. Lauren has developed several strategies to make her bids not only technically sound but also visually and contextually distinctive.
“I enhance responses by creating bespoke co-branded documents, incorporating client colours, logos and design elements,” Lauren says. This gives the bids a polished, professional appearance that immediately sets them apart.
Lauren also uses colour-coded call-out boxes to highlight key points, such as evidence, innovation and added value. “These boxes help draw attention to the most important aspects of the bid in a visually engaging way,” she adds.
Another key tactic Lauren employs is conducting thorough research into the buyer’s policies, values and goals. “I take the time to understand what the buyer is really looking for, so I can tailor the content to resonate with them on a deeper level,” she explains. By demonstrating a deep understanding of the buyer’s business, Lauren ensures her bids not only meet the requirements but truly connect with the buyer.
Advice for Businesses Struggling with Bidding
For businesses that consistently lose bids, Lauren offers some invaluable advice: revisit your bidding strategy. “If you’re losing bids, it’s essential to review your approach with a focus on three core areas: documentation and compliance, content quality and bid selection.”
First, businesses need to ensure they have the correct policies, accreditations and memberships in place to meet the buyer’s expectations. Secondly, the content of the bid must be clear, detailed and backed by evidence. “It’s important to outline exactly how you will deliver each element of the project and provide proof that you can do it,” Lauren advises.
Finally, selecting the right bids is crucial. “Businesses need to carefully review their ‘no bid’ strategy,” Lauren says. “Make sure you’re choosing bids that align with your capabilities and pricing them strategically.”
The Best Part of Working at Winning Tenders
When asked what she enjoys most about her work at Winning Tenders, Lauren doesn’t hesitate.
“The best part of working at Winning Tenders is the close collaboration and support I get from a team of passionate and talented individuals,” she shares. “Everyone at Winning Tenders is working towards the same goal: delivering the very best ‘Winning Tenders’ for our clients.”
Lauren Rufus’s insights offer a valuable understanding of the intricacies and rewards of bid writing. With her strategic approach, creative flair and focus on collaboration, businesses can refine their bid strategies and improve their chances of securing important contracts.
If you think you might need some extra help to get your business to where it needs to be, bid-wise, email Winning Tenders at info@winningtenders.com or call us at 01392 247997. We are a customer-focussed, award-winning business with a wealth of experience and knowledge. We offer bespoke solutions for any size of business.