Tender Tips

Thinking about hiring a bid writer? Top 5 red flags to avoid!

June 9, 2025

Writing public sector tenders can be frustrating and challenging for SMEs trying it out for the first time. Hiring a professional bid writer can greatly increase chances of success, but selecting the right one is essential. This guide highlights common pitfalls when hiring a bid writer, helping you make a decision that supports your business goals. Understand their tender writing expertise and evaluate their track record for the best support. For more on bid writing pitfalls, visit this article.

Red Flags in Bid Writing

When seeking a bid writer for your tender submissions, it’s crucial to be aware of potential warning signs. Recognising these red flags, you can avoid partnering with an inexperienced or unsuitable professional, maximising chances of success.

Top things to look out for!

  1. Absence of Relevant Case Studies or References: Be wary of bid writers who can’t provide relevant case studies or references regarding their work. While they may have general bid writing skills, sector-specific experience can make a significant difference in understanding buyer priorities and crafting tailored responses.

  2. Insufficient Communication Skills: Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful bid writing. A bid writer who struggles to articulate ideas clearly or fails to engage with your team productively can seriously hinder your tender’s chances. Ensure they ask probing questions about your business, services, or unique selling points and demonstrate curiosity.

  3. Poor Responsiveness and Availability: Another red flag is a lack of responsiveness or difficulty in scheduling meetings. Bid writing often involves tight deadlines, and a writer who is hard to reach or consistently misses agreed-upon touchpoints may not be reliable when it matters most.

  4. Lack of Urgency: deadlines are critical and often non-negotiable for tendering, so bid writers need to be able to convey this and chase for information. Ensure that your bid writer has the confidence to push you and your staff when needed for information.

  5. Outdated Industry Knowledge: Another warning sign is a lack of up-to-date knowledge about industry trends and regulations. A competent bid writer should be well-versed in the latest developments affecting your sector. During initial conversations, ask probing questions about recent changes or challenges in your industry to gauge their level of expertise.

For further tender support…..

For expert assistance in navigating the bid writing process and avoiding these common pitfalls, consider booking a session with BidHelp. Our experienced tender professionals can guide you through the tender submission process, ensuring your bid stands out for all the right reasons.