Is your bid writer a winner?

Bid writing is a role often little understood. Unless already successful in larger scale bid tenders, management will, of course, know the importance of tenders, but might not know that there are highly trained, experienced writers who specialise in bids. They might not also be aware that there are bid managers, too. Each can be pivotal in running - and winning - a competitive tender, or pitch.

Is your business large enough to compete for a tender, but too small to have a retained team for project bids? For smaller businesses, pitching for tenders can feel like a catch 22 situation. Bids are complex and detailed projects, often with specific detailed submission requirements and tight deadlines. They’ll eat up the time of your management team, if not handled efficiently.

This is where using PSR to help recruit and manage a bid team can be a superb investment, enabling you to grow your business. If a full bid team is out of the question, a bid writer is the one to choose.

WHAT IS A BID WRITER?

Bid writers are usually specialists in their fields, often with previous experience and therefore a thorough understanding of their specific area of expertise. The bid writer may also be trained in bid-writing styles and protocols, which is essential - particularly if you’re running a small team or business. Larger companies, or bid teams will have one writer for each part of the tender (for example HR, or Engineering), but for smaller companies, one person with the overall responsibility for content will be highly worthwhile.

WRITING FOR RESULTS

Bids can feel like they are written backwards. Writers and teams must ensure that their writing identifies desired outcomes and results, then clearly outlines the processes to achieve them. It takes clear thinking and focus to write a bid in the style requested by the invitation to tender. RADAR is one such example of a management tool, but of course there are others. Make sure your bid writer has worked with one or two of them and knows it inside-out - particularly if there is no bid manager available. They’ll need to manage both the process and the content to the correct timings, so at least have the ability to pull together work on time from multiple sources. Strong project management skills are essential.

PERSONAL SERVICE

Under pressure, our clients don’t have time to meet lots of applicants - especially if the RFP or ITT has a short deadline. At PSR we make sure we meet all clients and personally vet their qualifications and experience before they’re even put forward for a role. There’s no time for mistakes or poor placements when the chips are down; it’s vital for everyone that candidates and companies are working effectively to win tenders. We constantly monitor the teams we have in place for success - and ultimately, that’s what we’re all looking for.

QUALITY OF CLIENTS

This year PSR has placed a number of bid writer and manager positions in tier 1 construction firms. Our attention to detail and vetting works both ways, ensuring that employers meet the grade, too. We’re proud to place our candidates with quality clients.

YOUR BID, YOUR GOALS

Whether contractor, or construction industry employer, our professional and experienced team would be happy to discuss your requirements and preferences for upcoming contracts and projects. Get ahead now and you’ll hit the ground running when the bids come in.

Current vacancies for bid writing and management positions are listed on our website.

Our award-winning temporary and permanent construction recruitment specialists are committed to helping each of our clients source their ideal candidate or team. Contact us in confidence or if you are a bid writer looking for a new opportunity, register or send us your CV to get started.

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