Breaking the Proposal Length Myth
- Ideas at Dawn
- 1 day ago
- 1 min read
One of the biggest misconceptions in proposal work is that a longer proposal equates to a better proposal. In reality, shorter, more focused proposals often win more business.
The Research Is Clear
5-page proposals have a win rate of approximately 50%.
30-page proposals have a win rate of roughly 35%.
That’s a significant drop-off. Why does this happen? Longer proposals often dilute your message, while shorter ones make it easier for evaluators to say yes.
Why Shorter Proposals Win
They respect the time of busy evaluators who appreciate brevity.
They eliminate fluff, allowing your value to shine through.
They focus on what truly matters—providing solutions without unnecessary filler.
How to Keep It Short and Effective
Emphasize client benefits rather than firm capabilities.
Use simple, clear language—avoid jargon.
Create a structured format with bullets, headings, and white space.
Include only content that directly addresses the client’s needs.
Quick Tip: Outline Before You Write
Draft a one-page outline that highlights only the most essential content. Exclude anything that does not directly support your solution or answer the client's concerns. Remember, being under the page count is not a drawback; it's a strategic advantage.