How do you create proposals that turn into ideal clients? Today our guest is Eman Zabi, the founder of Scribesmith, a copywriting agency, and Terrain, an online learning business. She warns of mistakes you can make with proposals and suggests valuable tips for building a personal connection with potential clients. Join us as we discuss the best ways to ensure you deliver a winning proposal that has both relevance and excellence!

 

Podcast Outline:

[0:00] Introduction to Eman Zabi and the topic of creating winning proposals that turn into ideal clients - Eman tells the story of how she got into the freelance space.

[4:52] The benefits of fast-tracking skill development with bite-sized training

[5:56] The topic of proposals - Craig explains how the freelance marketplace industry is growing and shares an example that illustrates the importance of writing a relevant proposal.

 

Mistakes We Can Make with Our Proposals

[7:39] #1 Generic proposals - Eman suggests practical ways to avoid making this mistake so that you address the client’s priorities.

[9:29] #2 Incorrect tone - Eman and Craig stress the importance of tailoring your voice to the level of the company and brand you’re applying to.

[11:24] #3 Grammar errors - Craig explains the importance of delivering a proposal with excellence.

[12:33] #4 Lack of professionalism - Eman shares examples illustrating the need to follow instructions.

[13:30] #5 Lack of work experience - Eman recommends ways to establish credibility by sharing appropriate work experience.

[14:02] #6 Lack of process - Eman and Craig emphasize the importance of talking about your process in a concise way.

[15:26] Elements we should include in a proposal - Eman lists the crucial elements that will win over a potential client. She and Craig share examples of proposals that contain these elements.

[18:23] The question of proposal templates - Eman discusses the benefits of using proposal software. 

[20:47] How a personal connection is made in the initial email - Eman outlines the steps involved in connecting with a potential client before sending a proposal.

[22:45] How to submit a proposal when you aren’t able to make a personal email connection - Eman and Craig suggest tips for researching a company and making a good impression when you’re applying through a marketplace.

[26:08] The use of Loom and video in the context of proposals - Eman and Craig discuss when a video would be effective and when it wouldn’t.

[28:40] How proposal creation can become a repeatable process that helps you win clients

[29:19] How to get to know Eman

[30:04] How to learn more about Freelance University

 

Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode:

Freelance University 

 

Learn more about Eman Zabi:

Website: Scribesmith 

Online Learning Business: Terrain 

 

Connect with Eman:

Twitter: @Eman_Zabi  or @Terrain_io 

Instagram: @Terrain.io 

 

Resources and tools:

Facebook Groups 

Upwork 

PeoplePerHour 

Proposify

HoneyBook 

Google Docs

Better Proposals.io 

LinkedIn 

FlexJobs 

Loom 

Instagram Reels 

Netflix