What is a proposal?
Is it a communication tool to:
A. provide specific rates, inclusions, availability
B. persuade buyers you’re the best choice and why
Yes, of course, answer C, both, is best, but all high performing sellers understand the true core of a sales proposal is to create distinction and desire.
Instead, I see introductory narratives that wax poetic about the hotel, high atop a bluff, or how the location makes any getaway exceptional. or “boasts scenic views surrounded by unique geography” or “white sands” steps away.
Knock it off and instead tell the story that matters to the buyer!
What did you and your buyer talk about as key drivers?
What did he email as being important to success for his event goers, travelers, or colleagues?
What do you know, from your knowledge base, is critical to this type of buyer?
Begin with that!
Of course, you’ll include the details, but think of your proposal as a SALES tool rather than an informational tool to ensure you’re short listed.
BONUS
Another big mistake proposal writers make is they ignore the principle of recency; people remember the last thing they heard or read.
So what is the last thing they read in your proposal? It’s usually some variation of absolutely nothing… the proposal just dribbles away or
“We are not currently holding space for you.”
You can do better than that!
What do you want them to think when they finish reviewing your proposal?
Tell them.
If you find value in this content, I’d be grateful if you’d share, repost and when you have time, make a comment. Also, please tell me what topics are most important to you. You can email me directly if you prefer: Sue@SpeakerSue.com. Finally, every presentation I deliver is customized for your team, brand and needs so if you’re looking for practical, fun sales training, please email or call: +1-480-575-9711. You can count on fresh content to boost your sales success. Thank you! SpeakerSue
Power Sales Writing