Freelance Bid Writers

Expectations and Roles of a Freelance Bid Writer

In this article, we detail the role and expectations of a freelance bid writer. Expectations and requirements do change based on sector, client size and your experience in the market. Freelance bid writer roles can be junior and supportive, or senior and technical. 

Freelance Bid Writer Role Overview

As a Freelance Bid Writer, you'll be helping businesses win contracts by crafting compelling bids and proposals. This role is all about understanding what clients need and presenting their strengths in the best possible light. Here’s what you can expect, you may some only some of these areas or all of them:

What You'll Be Doing:

1. Researching Opportunities:
   • Spending time finding potential bid opportunities that fit your client's strengths.
   • Understanding tender documents and client requirements is crucial.
2. Bid Planning and Strategy:
   • You'll develop a game plan for each bid, focusing on key themes and strategies that align with your client's goals.
   • Time management is key, ensuring each bid is completed and submitted on time.
3. Bid Writing and Editing:
   • Crafting clear, persuasive, and well-structured bid content is your main job.
   • You'll create templates for common sections and customise proposals for each tender.
4. Collaboration:
   • Work closely with clients to gather the necessary information.
   • Coordinate with other team members to ensure all details are accurate and complete.
5. Bid Document Preparation:
   • Organise and format bid documents according to the tender's requirements.
   • Ensure all necessary paperwork and certifications are included.
6. Quality Assurance:
   • Review and refine draft submissions to make sure they are top-notch.
   • Make sure all bids meet the required standards and are compliant with the rules.
7. Follow-Up:
   • Track the outcomes of your bids and gather feedback to improve future submissions.
   • Keep a record of all bid documents and case studies for future reference.

Bidding Skills You'll Need

1. Writing and Communication:
   • Strong writing skills are a must. You should be able to explain complex ideas simply and persuasively.
   • Good verbal communication skills help when working with clients and team members.
2. Project Management:
   • Being organised and able to manage your time effectively is crucial.
   • You'll often juggle multiple bids at once, so attention to detail is important.
3. Research Skills:
   • You'll need to be good at finding and understanding information quickly.
   • Analytical skills will help you interpret data and identify key points.
4. Industry Knowledge:
   • Understanding the tendering process and industry standards is essential.
   • Familiarity with specific industries like construction, healthcare, or IT can be beneficial.
5. Technical Skills:
   • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other relevant software is important.
   • Experience with bid management tools and online submission portals is a plus.
6. Interpersonal Skills:
   • Strong interpersonal skills will help you build and maintain relationships with clients and team members.
   • Being adaptable and flexible is important to meet changing client needs.

Typical Experience and Qualifications of a Freelance Bid Writer

• A degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, English, History or a related field, which involves lots of research and writing.
• Experience in bid writing or a similar role is highly valued.
• A portfolio of successful bids and proposals can give you an edge.
• Certification in bid/proposal management (like our CPD accredited bid writing courses) is a bonus.

As a Freelance Bid Writer, you'll play a key role in helping businesses secure important contracts. Your efforts will directly contribute to their success, making this a rewarding and impactful career choice. If you have a knack for writing and a strategic mind, this could be the perfect fit for you.

You may also find the following useful: 

• Freelance Bid Writers and What They Do - view our client options for support and further detail on the role
• 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Bid Writer - those those assessing a career in bid writing or going freelance 
• Bid Resource, Thornton & Lowe's Bid Recruitment Division. We supply freelance bid writers across the UK!

Need a Freelance Bid Writer?

Thornton & Lowe can supply freelance bid writers as a specialist expert in the sector, or supply our dedicated freelance bid writing services team who can offer fixed fees and consistency across multiple projects. To discuss options contact us today.

Thornton & Lowe - Your Trusted Partner in Bid Writing  Bid Winning!