Every proposal submitted in response to a Request for Proposal (RFP) should be customized to the potential client’s (PC) needs.

You must first research the PC’s websites, articles, social media and become familiar with the PC’s business. Plan to spend at least one hour 'Googling' the PC's name, business name, sites, etc.

Copy links to any articles or blog posts in a Word document that may be worth referencing as you write the proposal. [I will often mention something the PC may have written online in my proposal as an ice-breaker and to show that I have an interest in the PC’s business.]

Here is a summary of what to include in your proposal letter:

Begin the proposal by creating a clean opening statement introducing yourself and indicating where the RFP was found.

In the second paragraph using the research you have completed, try to make a connection right away with the reader by referencing something special about the company. This will personalize and customize your proposal and ‘catch the attention’ of the PC. The first two personalized opening paragraphs sends a message that that this is not ‘just another copy/paste’ VA proposal letter.

In the next paragraph you can include the selection of two or three services that the PC seeks in a Virtual Assistant and then provide examples as to how you are the solution to these points.
Do not be sales-y. This information is not about you.

Explain briefly how you would handle these services at a higher level than expected. Use percentages and/or numbers in your explanation, i.e., I increased subscribers by 20% in one month's time.

Include links to some of your work if you can. Provide a link or two to a client testimonial featured on LinkedIn or from your website. Intertwine testimonial(s) as part of the conversation in the proposal for use as back-up to the services the PC is seeking from you.

State your goal and why someone would want to work with you:
In addition to the administrative services you desire, I would like to assist with promoting your expertise to more subscribers to build lasting and trusting relationships.

Utilize the same words the PC uses in his/her RFP within your proposal. If they use 'techie' or 'right hand VA' in their description, repeat those same words in your proposal.

Closing paragraph:

I believe we may be a good match and if you trust the same, I would like to set up a client consultation with you at your convenience to discuss further what we can accomplish together. Skype or phone would be fine.

In the meantime, I have attached my New Client Welcome Packet, which offers information about working with me, the services I provide, my rates and my business policies.

State that you will follow up as this gives the PC a heads-up that you will do so AND that you have good follow-up skills.

Provide your signature with all contact links.

*Extracted and summarized from "The RFP Transformation - Take Your Virtual Assistant Proposal From Blah to Bling" . Download more Free RFP Tips from here.