Seven Insider Tips For Winning Government Contracts In 2020
Government work can be very lucrative. However, before you can make money working for the government, you need to learn how to be successful when you bid on government contracts. Working with a DC government contracting attorney to prepare your proposal can increase your chance of winning the contract. Below are seven tips from experienced insiders that can also increase your chance of winning government contracts in 2020.
Seven Ways to Increase Your Chance of Winning a Government Contract
1. Only Bid On Jobs You Can Complete
To improve your chance of winning government contracts, you need to build a good reputation. Past performance matters a lot when winning government contracts.
It's tempting to bid on as many jobs as possible, especially when struggling to build your business. However, if you bid on a job you cannot complete, your company’s reputation will suffer. Failing to perform fully and timely can prevent you from winning new bids in the future.
In the beginning, bid on smaller jobs you know you can deliver. As you build a successful reputation of past performance and you know you can handle more, bid on larger jobs.
2. Research Your Competitors
You need to know who your competitors are so you can make your company stand out from the crowd. Research companies that provide similar products or services. Learn what makes these companies successful so you can adopt what is working for them. Also, look for differences that make your company a better choice and highlight those differences when you bid on government jobs.
“In the beginning, bid on smaller jobs you know you can deliver. As you build a successful reputation of past performance and you know you can handle more, bid on larger jobs. ”
— Steve Thienel
There is a great deal of competition for some government contracts. Investing in marketing to build your brand can also be helpful. First impressions are important, even in government work. Be careful when forming your image. You want to project a professional, competent, resourceful image. You also need to be consistent when marketing your brand across all platforms, including social media, websites, messaging, and other forms of communication and marketing.
3. Consider Subcontracting Opportunities
Subcontracting opportunities are an excellent way for small businesses or new businesses to break into government work. Partnering with contractors already established in government work helps you establish a good reputation, develop a consistent work history, and make contacts that can open new opportunities. Working with an established company can also help you learn more about government contracting and insider tips that can help you win your own government contracts in the future.
4. Register For Small Business Opportunities
If you qualify as a small business, registering as a small business can open the door to government contracts specifically set aside for small businesses. And numerous government contracts are available to certain classes of small businesses. For example, some government contracts are limited to Women-Owned Small Businesses or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. Certifying your small business to qualify for specific government contracts can increase your chances of receiving government work.
5. Learn The Language And The Rules
There are various terms and acronyms related to government contracts. You need to understand the language and the rules completely before you bid on government contracts. Taking the time to review videos and information provided by the Small Business Administration that teach owners how to bid on government contracts can help you learn tricks and tips. Investing the time to learn about government contracts can increase your chance of success during the bidding process as well as in your fulfillment of the contract.
“Before you submit your proposal, review all guidelines to ensure that you have not overlooked a crucial requirement for a bid. ”
— Steve Thienel
6. Invest Time In Developing A Winning Proposal
Every government contract has guidelines for applicants. Before you submit your proposal, review all guidelines to ensure that you have not overlooked a crucial requirement for a bid. Each proposal has several sections. You must complete each section.
A winning proposal explains how you will complete the work and your scope of services. You also need to provide evidence you can complete the job at an affordable price. Don’t forget to describe the key personnel who will work on the job and their qualifications. You want to demonstrate excellent past performance. Describe your past work, especially on government contracts.
7. Attending Networking Events
Networking is an important element in building business, including government work. People like to know who they are doing business with and usually prefer working with someone they have met personally. Government workers are no exception. Face-to-face communication with the people who choose companies for government contracts is a great way to improve your chances of winning a contract. You can also learn valuable tips from the people who make these decisions and meet strategic partners at agency outreach events.
Working with a DC Fractional General Counsel Benefits Your Company
Businesses submitting a proposal for a government contract for the first time may want to consider working with a DC fractional general counsel who understands how to develop a strong proposal that highlights why your company is the best choice for the job.
A DC fractional general counsel provides affordable legal services for your company. Learn more about the services provided by a general counsel and how a general counsel can benefit your company in all aspects of your business. Contact Steve Thienel today.
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