A proposal is a document that contractors (or businesses) use to bid on client projects. By creating this type of document, contractors can outline the project terms they are proposing for the client. These terms can include details such as a quote and an expected completion time. The client reviews the proposal and decides whether to hire the contractor or pursue another option.

Proposals persuade clients to hire a contractor by presenting a solution to their problem or need. A proposal won’t necessarily explain every detail of how a contractor or business will solve a problem or complete a project. Rather, a proposal can outline the deliverables that a contractor is suggesting to complete a client’s project.

If you are a freelancer, contractor, or business professional, you can use our project Proposal Template to create quality proposals for your clients. Within many industries, providing potential clients with proposals is the standard practice for bidding on projects and jobs.

Construction, maintenance, consulting, and property management companies use proposals to win over clients and secure business deals. Freelance designers, writers, photographers, and marketing professionals also use proposals to acquire work.

Using our Proposal Template, you can create simple quotes or detailed proposals. A simple quote outlines basic pricing information and terms, but it doesn’t include specific deliverables. A detailed proposal provides the client with more information, including a list of deliverables and detailed pricing information.

You can create proposals for many different jobs and projects. Use our Proposal Template to create proposals for projects in the following industries:

• Construction
• Maintenance
• Property management
• Cleaning services
• Consulting services
• Marketing
• Writing and editing
• Graphic design
• Social media

You can create a successful proposal by answering your client’s most important questions and attempting to meet their quote and time expectations while still providing accurate estimations. Often, knowing your client’s expectations requires some form of communication ahead of time, such as a meeting or phone call. Gather as much information from the client as you can so you can tailor your proposal to their needs.

When writing a proposal for freelance work, be sure to:

• Demonstrate that you thoroughly understand the client’s project and goals
• Include realistic timelines, deliverables, and quotes
• Ensure that your proposal is polished and complete
• Proofread your proposal before submitting it to a client
• Consider if your client would prefer your proposal in printed or digital form

No, a proposal is not a legally binding contract. A valid and enforceable contract has key elements that must be present. Within contracts, there must be an offer from one party, which must be formally accepted by another.

A proposal offers a solution to a problem but does not allow a client to formally sign and enter into an agreement. Once a client has selected a contractor for a project, the parties can create a Service Agreement to produce a legally binding contract.

LawDepot’s Proposal Template is a convenient way to complete the proposal that you need to secure your next contract. Our template is configured into a self-guided questionnaire that allows you to customize your document specifically to your needs.

If you are wondering how to write a project proposal, begin by fully understanding your client’s needs and expectations. Then tailor your proposal to your client’s needs and ensure your proposal has all of the required information. Although all proposals will vary, you should typically include:

• You and your client’s information
• A project description and list of deliverables
• A quote and time estimate
• Your experience, professional certifications, and past projects

You can also include any other information that adds value for your client and highlights your skills and expertise. You can include client testimonials from other contract work, and if you are creating a proposal on behalf of a business, you can include information about your team.

Proposals do not have an ideal length, as every client project is different. If you are creating a proposal with many deliverables, your proposal will become more substantial. Some projects may not require an extensive amount of deliverables (if any) and will, therefore, be shorter.