Proposal checklist: is it ready to send?

Tick what your proposal already has

• The client's goal, in their wordsShows you listened, and gives every later section something to point back to.
• What's included: the deliverablesA named list of what they get is what they actually compare between quotes.
• What's not includedOne line of exclusions prevents most scope arguments before they start.
• Timeline with milestonesDates turn a promise into a plan, and tell the client when they're needed.
• A clear total priceThe number they're looking for. Don't make them add it up.
• Payment terms: deposit, schedule, due datesAgreed before work starts is far easier than negotiated after.
• How many revision rounds are includedWithout a limit, revision four is a free extra project.
• How they say yes: a signature or acceptance stepA clear yes gives you a start date and a record of what was agreed.
• An expiry date for the quoteGives a reason to decide now and protects you if your prices change.
• What happens after they acceptrecommendedRemoves the 'then what?' hesitation at the moment of deciding.
• Relevant proof: similar past workrecommendedOne close example beats a long portfolio link.
• Your business details and contactrecommendedNeeded for their records, and for the invoice that follows.