We live in a specialized, compartmentalized world where it is easy to get pigeon-holed. But I submit to you that the pandemic has leveled the playing field to a great extent. We can now work from home (and see each other's homes) as we meet via Zoom. There is less need to "dress for success" and impress each other. Women have even stopped wearing as much makeup, if at all. And we continue to chant that we're all in this together. You get the picture...
So when I was recently asked if I can write proposals, my response was, "Of course I can." Just because it is not spelled out in ALL CAPS, bold at the very top of my resume--nor do I promote this skill as my primary forte--I approach proposal writing like any other job request. And that's always with the necessary gusto, research (if needed), SME interviews, reference to a template or go-by, etc.
My existing clients across diverse industries know and understand that I can write about virtually anything they hand me. It's not up for discussion whether my writing or editing skills are transferrable to proposals...they just are! In fact, I recently edited a technical proposal that was submitted to NASA. I also wordsmithed a batch of 10 proposals to promote the sale of technical research studies. And in the past, I worked on proposals for the Arizona Department of Transportation, as well as the FDA. Now, if that's not proposal writing, I don't know what is.
It comes down to whether I should bill myself as an official "Proposal Writer" (which usually means higher pay), or continue as more of a generalist Technical/Marketing Copywriter. I think the latter suits me, as I enjoy the mix and the variety of writing assignments. But I do offer proposal writing as part of that mix, at the same rate of any other type of writing. Such a bargain!!!
If you're planning to submit a proposal in the near future, let me know and we'll face the challenge together...it's not rocket science:-)
Be well,
Deborah
eye4content@gmail.com
Mobile 832-868-6100
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