Thank you, I think that would be very helpful to many of us!

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Patty Deutmeyer
Deutmeyer Consulting Services

Do VAs usually use a proposal? Ive never thought of using one.

Hello, Dawn. I agree with Renee and everyone else, it's really important to have a template ready to submit a rockin' proposal. If I many add, research the individual/company/business and plug all pertinent information into your template. Emphasize what you are offering to solve their needs/void. Yes, it's really time consuming, even having a template. But the bottom line -- and the result -- is well worth it. I have two clients who are the best of all the best. And they told me that what won them over was my proposal. If a client is well worth it, make it worth your while to sock it to them with a rocking proposal!

If you combine the 2 Pattys' comments you should have an awesome proposal!

It is always important to research your client and to become familiar with their company's needs. LISTEN or READ what they are requesting -- Put your focus on THEM and how you can meet those demands.

Good luck! Please let us know what happens

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Deb's Professional Services
http://www.debsprofessionalservices.com

In the long time I've been in business I have never needed a proposal for a client, but I have submitted a few to businesses here needing a subcontractor. I think it might depend on the type of business you're in and the type of clients. I've also noticed that when applying for government bid type projects in my state you would need one.

I don't have a template set up, but I love the idea of having one at the ready and now plan on creating one after the first of the year...using the great suggestions here!

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Pam Deyerle - Transcriptionist in Richmond, Virginia (18 years)
The Perfect Word Transcription Service

For anyone who creates proposals on a frequent basis, you should take a look at Quote Roller. I set it up for a client last week and he absolutely loves it!

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Stacy White, Spectrum Office Solutions
www.ask4sos.com

Found all of that very helpful. I haven't yet needed to put a proposal together but once I do I will now have a much better idea on how to put on together...

And will be sure to keep my pricing somewhere closer to the bottom of the page.
Couldn't hurt!

Quoteroller looks interesting, but as I don't have any regular clients yet, I can't see investing the money. I'm looking for some free (or at least cheap) alternatives.

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Liz DeCamp
http://veteranofficesupportservices.com/ We are a proud veteran-owned business!

If you are writing a proposal in response to an RFP or Request for Proposal, I would spend the time researching the client's business needs to make sure you state in your proposal what you have accomplished is relative to their needs. The proposal is not about you; it's about what you can do for the client.

While I don't specifically use a template, I maintain that there are specific components that should be included in a proposal. It is important to make a connection with the potential client in the proposal.

If the proposal is in response to a PC specifically asking for this directly from a VA, I would create a New Client Welcome Packet which includes all of the business policies, payment policies, payment penalties, testimonials, social media links, a short bio, hours of operation, etc.

Janine

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Need clients? Use code RFP20 @ VAF store checkout for 20% off The RFP Transformation!

I don't think I'm qualified with enough posts to message anyone yet, so I need to ask here. I have a potential client who wants me to give her a set amount for my services over a six month period so she can write it in the project budget. She has listed the responsibilities, I just have no idea how long it will take to complete them. How can I calculate a price and still get the hourly rate I'm accustomed to? Is there a form you use, etc? I'm lost. Thanks for any help you can provide!!