The Cost of Not Doing Prework

Insurance distribution strategy meeting, group sitting around table with laptops and charts

Most organizations do not lose Request for Proposals (RFPs) because they cannot write. They lose because they start too late.   They treat the RFP as the starting point instead of what it is: the final exam.  By the time an RFP drops, organizations that win consistently already know their story, their differentiators, and how they will position themselves. They are […]

The Power of Pre-Work: Four Smart Moves to Make Before the RFP

You know that awkward lull before an RFP drops? It feels like nothing’s moving—but in reality, the most strategic teams are already in motion. While others sit idle, you can be sharpening your edge. The smartest organizations treat the pre-RFP period as their secret weapon—not just a waiting game, but a powerful window to shape […]

Top 3 APMP 2025 Takeaways to Build a More Strategic Proposal Response Team

Correcting missteps, best practices, winning proposals, proposal writing

The 2025 APMP conference delivered bold ideas, real-world inspiration, and practical tips for proposal management professionals across all levels and industries. And one universal takeaway couldn’t be clearer: proposal teams are evolving. Leaders and practitioners alike are stepping into new roles, embracing new tools, and redefining their impact on the business as a strategic growth […]

Winning the Orals: Four Best Practices for Executive Presence in Proposal Presentations

Three confident executives working as a team, ready for their Orals presentation.

In high-stakes procurements, the Orals presentation can be the moment that seals the win. It’s your team’s opportunity to bring the proposal to life, showing not just what you do, but how you lead, collaborate, and problem-solve in real time. Often, these presentations are delivered by a diverse group of leaders from across partner organizations, […]

Why Outsourcing Content for PBMs is the Smartest Move you Can Make

PBM proposal team collaboration, business professionals reviewing proposals, outsourcing content for PBMs, RFP strategy meeting, proposal writing support

In today’s competitive pharmacy benefit management (PBM) market, margins are thin, and expectations are high. PBMs must do more with less, including producing high-quality, compliant, and compelling proposals that win and retain business.  One of the smartest moves a PBM can make in this environment? Outsource proposal writing to expert partners who know the industry […]

6 Reasons Fortune 500s are Reluctant to Use AI in the RFP Process

RFP writing on laptop

As AI tools grow increasingly sophisticated, they clearly hold a significant promise for transforming the RFP response process. From automating repetitive tasks to uncovering competitive insights, AI has the potential to make bid teams faster, sharper, and more effective.  But many Fortune 500 companies hesitate to fully embrace AI in their proposal workflows. Why? We’ll […]

Three Keys to Effective SME-Writer Communication

proposal writers participating in discussion

Success doesn’t just happen. It depends on clear, intentional communication. The relationship between Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and Proposal Writers is the backbone of a strong, winning proposal. SMEs expertise spans health plans, populations served, and the programs that drive impact. They provide both big picture strategy and the detailed proof points needed for a […]

Five Reasons to Consider AI Support in Proposal Writing

Leveraging AI to improve proposal writing

Proposal writing can be a daunting task. Whether you’re bidding for a government contract, seeking funding, or pursuing a new business opportunity, crafting the perfect proposal is essential. It’s easy to overlook how much time and effort goes into creating a winning proposal. Enter Artificial Intelligence (AI), a powerful tool that can help streamline the […]

Win More Bids: How Community Knowledge Strengthens Your Proposals

Proposal writing isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about connecting with the client. A proposal demonstrating local understanding is far more compelling than a generic, boilerplate response.  💡 The secret? Community knowledge.  By weaving insights about who the community is, what they need, and how your solution impacts them, you transform your proposal into a powerful […]

Winning Proposals: Five Common Missteps and How to Fix Them

Correcting missteps, best practices, winning proposals, proposal writing

A proposal can be a persuasive tool that demonstrates your ability to meet the client’s needs effectively. Crafting a compelling proposal is a crucial skill for winning contracts, securing funding, or building successful partnerships. However, even well-intentioned proposals can fall flat due to common missteps. Before hitting submit, take the time to refine your proposal, […]