Writing consulting proposals that win

TL;DR: What a winning consulting proposal contains, and how to handle the moments before and after sending it.

What should a consulting proposal include, and what happens after you send it?

4 Questions About Writing consulting proposals that win

What should a consulting proposal actually include?

A proposal answers four questions and nothing else. The blueprint: a value-based title, your diagnosis, the outcomes, three options, terms and next steps.

How do I write a proposal without giving away free consulting?

Write the what and the why, and leave out the executable how. Where the line sits, how much detail a client needs, and what to do if they ask too early.

Should I present my proposal live or just email it?

Walk through the proposal live whenever you can get the time, then send it. Why email is the weakest channel, how to run the call, and when emailing is fine.

I sent the proposal and heard nothing back

Two weeks of silence after a proposal is normal and rarely a decision. What's happening on their side, what your follow-up should say, and when to worry.

Related Clusters

Pillar 02 / Cluster 2C

Following up with potential clients without chasing

How to stay in a sales process with persistence and integrity after the other side goes quiet.

Pillar 02 / Cluster 2B

Navigating the long B2B sales process

How consulting engagements really get bought inside companies, and how to lead a sale you are mostly not in the room for.

Pillar 03 / Cluster 3C

Negotiating consulting fees and protecting your price

How to hold your price through pushback, procurement, and pressure.

Mary G, nonprofit consultant
I just secured a contract for 500% more than I was originally going to quote. I was ready to undervalue my bid and ask for $7,000 but I reached out to Leah and the team for a pep talk and I'm glad I did, because we are now going under contract for $37,500!! I'm stoked!
Denise F, marketing consultant
I was my reviewing my revenue dashboard and it showed that I earned $100K more in 2024 compared to the year before. I joined the Academy in May 2024 and it has transformed my sales approach entirely.
Sarah J, fundraising consultant
We used to book clients just in time to keep income flowing, and we now have a 6-month cushion!

Get more of the clients you want, and get paid more for your work

Leah writes to women running B2B consulting businesses every week, about getting clients on purpose and getting paid for the value of the work.

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