How to Write a Consulting Proposal
By: Fresh Proposals
Tags: Consulting, Business Consulting, Sales Proposals, Consulting Proposal, Consulting Services

Even though the sales proposal is not really a secret ingredient to your recipe for success but the humble truth is, it's an inevitable part of your sales process. When it comes to building a consulting business, you should be able to craft an effective consulting proposal.

Unfortunately, many consultants fail at this stage, they assume that they know what is best for their clients and what they are searching for. An effective consulting proposal is something that accurately reflects and addresses the client’s needs.

It's easier said than done right? But don’t worry- In this post, I’ll walk you through everything that is needed to craft an effective consulting proposal.

What is a Consulting Proposal?

When an organization needs assistance in fixing the budget, organizing marketing strategy, or reshaping the company, they ask a potential consultant to write a consulting proposal for the project in hand.

A consulting proposal is a document that outlines how that particular consultant will approach and complete the project. It covers all the areas of the project including the client’s obstacles, consultant strategy, timeline, and a complete budget.

Things That Stop Prospects From Signing On Your Consulting Proposal

Business proposal failures are often caused by mistakes that can be easily avoided with a little bit of attention to detail and strategic planning. Here are the three most common mistakes consultants make when creating a business consulting proposal:

Lack of details: In order to keep it brief, short, and concise; many times consultants sacrifice the details. Because of lacking details, prospective clients may assume that you’re not the best person to identify their problems and help initiate changes.

In order to keep it brief, short, and concise; many times consultants sacrifice the details. Because of lacking details, prospective clients may assume that you’re not the best person to identify their problems and help initiate changes. You’re not reaching the decision-maker: Irrespective of the fact that your proposal is well-written and stunning, but if it does not meet the eyes of a person who makes the buying decision, your proposal will unfortunately come back unsigned.

Irrespective of the fact that your proposal is well-written and stunning, but if it does not meet the eyes of a person who makes the buying decision, your proposal will unfortunately come back unsigned. It is not personalized as per your client’s needs: The greatest crime of any consulting proposal is failing to understand the client and their needs.

Always remember only a consulting proposal that is comprehensive, relative, and impressive will have a higher chance of getting your prospect on board.

Therefore, next time when your prospective consulting client (who seems interested) suggests “Just send me a proposal”- push back and ask your client these questions.

Can we discuss some of your challenges further to help us create the best solution for you?

Can I get some inputs from some of the other stakeholders to make sure my proposal and recommendation take everyone’s needs into the account?

These questions will help you avoid the common mistakes stated above and create a consulting proposal that is clear, straightforward, and effective.

But when do you think is the right time to ask these questions? Let’s find out on the next point.

Major Components to Include in a Consulting Proposal

Consulting proposals that converts have a clear logical structure that supports the decision making process. Here’s what you must include in your consulting proposal:

A Compelling Cover Letter

You need to set the expectations right from the start and the cover letter of your proposal is something that gives the teaser of your consulting strategy and encourages them to read the rest of the proposal.

Specifications About the Services

This portion of your consulting proposal should give specific details about the work you’ll be doing. Here are some examples of the business consulting services you can outline in this section,

Coaching Services and Interim Services

Finance Management

Organizational Management

Risk Management

Timeline

The timeline table is one of the most crucial elements in your consulting proposal. A detailed breakdown of your timeline will give your prospect more confidence that you can make their project successful.

Investment

Write a section showing the fees you will need. While writing the investment section make sure to highlight your previous work and consulting experience. This will make it crystal clear that your charges are according to the experience.

Proof of Past Work

The purpose of the case study in your consulting proposal is to tell potential customers how a similar customer succeeded in their business with your services. You can fill out this section with the expertise you have, the awards you won, the big list of your happy clients.

Terms and Conditions

Always keep the contract and your terms and conditions part of your proposal and get them signed together to avoid future conflict.

Next Steps

It is where you need to explain in-depth what you want your client to do next to get things rolling. Don’t expect to submit your proposal and assume your work is done. Take the initiative to indicate you’ll be in touch to discuss the proposal further.

Wrap Up

With all this is in mind you should be able to create your own consulting proposal template. I hope this guide helped you clear so many doubts about the consulting proposal.