General Tender Tips
- Only tender for contracts which you have a realistic chance of winning.
- Keep a library of frequently requested documents including insurances, certificates, accounts and internal policies.
- Express an interest in suitable opportunities as soon as you can in order to maximise the time available for completing your submission.
- Read the buyer's instructions carefully so you fully understand the requirements. If you have any questions ensure that you ask the buyer for clarification.
- Make a note of the deadline and ensure you submit your tender response in good time.
- Research the buyer, and the requirement, and utilise the information you find in your tender response.
- Answer all questions carefully and provide evidence to 'back up' what you say in your tender response. Where possible tailor your answers to the buyer and/or the requirement.
- Sell yourself to the buyer; let them know why you are the best supplier for the contract. Show them you have relevant previous experience and the capability to deliver all their requirements.
- Provide all requested supporting documentation and ensure any attachments are clearly referenced to the appropriate question.
- Ensure your tender response is well presented. Where appropriate use bullets, charts, diagrams and images to break up text. Also ensure line spacing, font colour and size and text justification is consistent throughout the document.
- Follow the buyer's instructions at all times. Failure to adhere to these instructions can result in the loss of points during the evaluation process or in your submission being rejected.
- Utilise the tender evaluation criteria, which should form part of the buyer's tender documentation, as this will provide information on how your submission will be scored.
- Include an executive summary which covers the main points of your tender and a covering letter so the buyer understands exactly what is included in your response.
- Proof read your tender response before submitting it to the buyer. Where possible ask somebody else, preferably someone who hasn't been involved in the production of the tender, to proofread it for you too.
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