Proper Formatting Improves Sample Business Proposals

By Morgan Stewart

In the business world, one shot is frequently all you get to make or break a sale. When it comes to sample business proposals, it's important to maintain a professional aesthetic and follow standard formatting rules. If you can make your potential client to take you seriously, then you have gone a long way toward securing a contract. That's no small feat in today's economy.

One simple step that is forgotten all too often is simple formatting. The following tips are suggested for good reasons. Your proposal is your gateway into the client's wallet, so make sure it's readable and that it communicates as well as you can positively make it using as few words as possible. Clarity is vital here, as is presenting that ever elusive professional image.

Adding White Space Improves Readability

You should separate text sections with bold headers to emphasize key points from paragraph to paragraph. Make certain to maintain a modest margin throughout your document - anywhere between .5" to a full inch on all sides will do the trick. As far as fonts are concerned, stick with a 12 point Courier New or Times New Roman for maximum readability. These steps will leave plenty of white space on your business proposal.

White space is advantageous in your document for two reasons. First, your text will be able to "breathe" a little more, you'll avoid looking stuffy and the text will look easier to get through. Another benefit is that leaving plenty of white space provides areas for your client-to-be to take notes or comment on your proposal. Use any feedback they give you to make an additional offer, and keep this change in mind for future proposals.

Using The Right Graphics And Colors To Accentuate Your Message

The idea behind your proposal is to communicate as effectively and attractively as possible. Pitch your products and services in a way that makes their decision a no brainer and you'll score contracts more often than not. Emphasize your proposal text with attention getting color schemes and relevant graphics such as charts and graphs.

Proposal writing is by definition less than exciting, so do what you can to make your proposal look unique, without becoming flashy, and the results of your efforts will speak for themselves.

Take Care Of Your Front Matter

The beginning of a proposal is typically made of assorted "front matter," which is simply any text written to help organize or elaborate on the materials to follow. Anything that's handy to cross reference during reading might be included here, including a table of contents, price sheet, lists, and diagrams.

If your document is long enough and you are able, slip it all into a handsome three ring binder and include a few appendices to suggest additional information that might be helpful to the client's final decision.

Last Thoughts

As helpful as sample business proposals may be, the final deal breaker is going to be you: your material, your professionalism, and your hard work. If you want an account, go after it and make sure your efforts reflect the way you want to be perceived.

Use white space to your advantage and spice up dull patches of text with attractive colors and relevant graphics. By following these hints, you can make your sample business proposal far easier to read. The better it looks, the easier it will be for your document to be read, as well. - 30445

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