Bid better or not at all.
- Vision TDM
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
When it comes to bidding for high-value work, there’s one hard truth: if you’re not bidding strategically, you’re wasting time. At Vision TDM, we’ve seen it all rushed submissions, recycled content, and hopeful pitches with no clear win theme.
Bidding isn’t about being the loudest voice, it’s about being the most relevant one. Here are a few real tips from Neil Southwell’s front-line experience that can help you sharpen your approach and bid better or not at all.
1. Only Bid When You Can Win
This sounds obvious, but too many businesses chase everything. Neil's tip? Be selective. If you can’t clearly articulate why you’re the best fit for this specific client, it might be worth walking away. Focus your energy where you have a competitive edge.
2. Stop Recycling Old Proposals
Copy-paste might save time, but it doesn’t win work. Every bid should be tailored to the client’s needs and pain points. As Neil puts it: "If the client can’t tell it was written just for them, why should they choose you?"
3. Build a Win Strategy Before You Write a Word
Writing comes last. Strategy comes first. Map out the win themes, understand the evaluation criteria, and align your messaging before you even open a document. Bids are won in the thinking, not just the writing.
4. Strong Systems Save Bids
Disorganisation kills good content. A clear process, a CRM that tracks deadlines and progress, and streamlined internal communication can be the difference between a panic submission and a polished one. Neil’s team has helped dozens of businesses build bid systems that reduce stress and boost quality.
5. Train Your Team, Not Just the Writers
Bidding is a team sport. From business development to delivery, everyone plays a part. Invest in bid training across departments so the entire team understands what it takes to win. Confidence and capability grow together.
The Bottom Line:
Bidding is a game of strategy, not guesswork. If you’re not putting your best foot forward strategically, structurally, and persuasively then it might be better to skip the bid altogether.
🔗 Want help sharpening your next bid? Let’s talk 👉 www.visiontdm.co.uk
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