If you are trying to get involved with federal contracting proposals, there are a few things you should know. Here are some tips on bidding on government contracts before you take the plunge.
Go small
Small business contractors have agreed to this nationwide — go small when you start as you do not want to be overwhelmed. The federal agencies you are bidding with will look at your past history and will deny you if you do not have many successes. To get started, think about bidding on proposals that are priced around $3,000. No need to worry if you cannot find contracts at this pay level just yet, contract pricing varies.
Research, research, research
Before anything else, you need to do your research! Government proposals can be quite confusing and you do not want to get involved in something you cannot handle. Many small business owners are worried that the government is not going to buy what you have, but in reality they buy almost everything! There will always be a need for something new and different, so do not let your fear of holding back keep you from a proposal creation. It is also a good idea to register with the Central Contractor Registration database and then get on the General Services Administration schedule, which will make it easier for the government to find what you have to offer.
Don’t give up
Staying persistent will benefit you in the long run. If your proposal gets denied, do not give up. Typically it takes around two years to get approved for your first contract. Think of bidding on government contracts like a marathon, slow and steady wins the race. However, if you are continuously denied it may be time to have a look at your proposal and make some changes. Speaking to a professional and using proposal creation software is the best way to make your bid competitive.
Network
Above anything else, bidding on government contracts is about creating and maintaining relationships. Ensure that you are creating a relationship with everyone you come in contact with, especially the government procurement officers. Don’t forget your peers, as coming together and bidding as a team often brings fantastic results.
