• Home
  • Blog
  • Community
  • Knowledge
  • Cover Stories
  • Startup Stories
  • Playbooks
  • Podcasts
  • Português
    • Events Homepage & Booking
    • Start-Up Night Africa Series
    • Lioness Lean In Series
    • Lionesses of Africa Annual Conference
    • Harvard University / Lionesses of Africa Conference
    • Young Lioness Lean In Series
    • About Us
    • Impact Partners
    • Contributor Team
    • Contact
    • Join the Community
    • Signup for FREE Newsletters
    • Share Your Startup Story
    • Share Your Lioness Launch
    • Share Your Lioness Co-Lab
    • Become a Contributor
    • Nominate to '100 Lionessess'
    • Become an Impact Partner
    • Contact LoA
Menu

Lionesses of Africa

276 5th Avenue
New York, NY, 10001
(212) 634-4540
The Pride of Africa's Women Entrepreneurs

the pride of Africa's women entrepreneurs

Lionesses of Africa

  • Home
  • Blog
  • Community
  • Knowledge
  • Cover Stories
  • Startup Stories
  • Playbooks
  • Podcasts
  • Português
  • Events +
    • Events Homepage & Booking
    • Start-Up Night Africa Series
    • Lioness Lean In Series
    • Lionesses of Africa Annual Conference
    • Harvard University / Lionesses of Africa Conference
    • Young Lioness Lean In Series
  • About +
    • About Us
    • Impact Partners
    • Contributor Team
    • Contact
  • Connect +
    • Join the Community
    • Signup for FREE Newsletters
    • Share Your Startup Story
    • Share Your Lioness Launch
    • Share Your Lioness Co-Lab
    • Become a Contributor
    • Nominate to '100 Lionessess'
    • Become an Impact Partner
    • Contact LoA

Evolution of the Bid-Slinger: A Maverick’s Guide to Mastering the Proposal Game

January 21, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Izane Cloete-Hamilton

During my wild ride in the world of bids and proposals, I’ve worked with all sorts – bid managers, bid coordinators, designers, and writers. I’ve gained insight into what really makes someone click in this profession. It’s not just about juggling tasks effectively or generating snazzy templates; it’s also about thriving under pressure and maintaining an eagle eye for each minute detail.

Sometimes, the bidding world throws Shakespeare’s famous line, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet,” out the window. A rose might be a rose for you, but for someone else, it might be an entirely different bloom. Bids are a complex beast; my take on what’s competent might be completely different from the next person’s. Where am I going with this? Not all bid and proposal approaches are created equal, which is a significant part of what makes this industry so captivating. They present a challenge but also a splendid invitation to innovate, adapt, and evolve as a bid professional, regardless of your industry.

Bidding maturity: a kaleidoscope of viewpoints

Our proposal consultancy doesn’t discriminate between industries. Our clients’ views are colourful and full spectrum – bid and proposal development may be a high-stakes game-changer to one or a sales prop and administrative chore to another. And there’s a whole gamut in between. This ever-shifting sea of opinions isn’t only about how far bidding sectors have come; it’s about how bidding, as a strategic value must-have, has evolved within the bigger picture. South Africa is our case in point. What’s the takeaway here? Bid and proposal work offers a doubled-edged sword for those bewildered but intrigued souls daring to dive in. Tricky to navigate challenges offer uncharted and rewarding opportunities. With an open mind and a go-getter attitude, these adventurous spirits may ignite fresh perspectives that’ll reshape (perhaps revolutionise?) the bidding landscape.

Making it big as a bid pro: the indispensable ingredients

Being a bid professional is for fearless souls who want to survive and soar. How? By arming themselves with an arsenal of skills, traits, and experiences that make them stand out. My top four indispensable ingredients are:

Stay insatiably curious: Fuel your curiosity and never stop exploring! Can’t help but question why things are done a certain way and how they could be improved? Fantastic! You’re toying with what I call ‘figuring it out’, better known as ‘design thinking’. This mindset lets you break away from traditional problems to create outside-the-box solutions. Design thinking pushes you to put yourself in the client’s shoes, map out clear goals, brainstorm inventive solutions, create prototypes of the most promising picks, and put them through a rigorous reality check. The more curious your mind, the more you break away from the ordinary – redrafting the script for addressing client needs, deciphering the latest procurement trends, nailing down industry nuances or mastering must-have skills.

Never underestimate the power of certifications: Dreaming of making a name for yourself in bid and proposal management, especially in a boutique-style consulting firm? Be ready to show your pedigree with the right credentials. The APMP certifications reign supreme. The Practitioner level certification is now considered an entry-level criterion (at least by Moi). An APMP certification skyrockets your credibility and cements your dedication to mastering the craft.

Continuously cultivate your experience: Accumulate the right kind of experience. It’s not just a numbers game – quality matters as much as quantity. Becoming a seasoned professional takes more than one successful bid or one year of experience. On the flip side, even a decade in the business doesn’t translate to expertise if you haven’t continually evolved and grown. Remember, meaningful practice—not just clocking in the hours—makes perfect. Misdirected or stagnating efforts lead to deep-rooted, ineffective methodologies, stifling growth and limiting your potential.

Strive to become an agile learner and communicator: A bid professional who can adapt to different industries and situations while communicating effectively is truly indispensable. Expand your knowledge base, delve into different sectors and keep refining your communication skills. Efficient and effective communication can make or break your proposal’s impact. Collaborate with team members and listen closely to clients. This continuous learning and communication loop allows you to better understand needs, address challenges, and ultimately offer a winning proposal.

Concluding impressions: evolution, exploration, and exuberant bids in the making

The bidding industry is a compelling realm, characterised by unique dynamics and trends poised at the intersection of strategic business functions and sales support. Emerging practices driven by procurement teams’ behaviours are colouring the industry canvas, with new opportunities blooming on the horizon. While bidding maturity levels may vary, the basic principle of crafting personalised, impactful proposals remains a non-negotiable constant across industry segments. The do’s and don’ts of bidding and APMP qualifications play pivotal roles in shaping successful bid careers, fortifying a bid professional’s arsenal in making a mark in the industry.

Beyond these academic accomplishments, the industry fervently calls for innovative thinkers and creative problem solvers. Those who truly excel are curious and can learn, adapt, and transfer their skills across different sectors and geographies and work outside their comfort zone. Bid and proposal skills are entirely transferable, making the walls of industry knowledge mere stepping stones rather than insurmountable obstacles. Just as rare and exotic flowers grow from seeds nurtured with thoughtful tending and diligent care, winning proposals are the fruits of tireless dedication, creativity, and the innovative spirit of the professionals steering the ship.

If you are a newcomer navigating this exhilarating industry, or at a crossroads determined to conquer a new sector, or revisiting your bidding strategies with a keen eye, embrace the call for relentless evolution, unwavering curiosity, and an insatiable desire for mastering your craft.


Izane is the Master of Inspiration at nFold, a strategic proposal consultancy in South Africa. She is a compassionate leader with a rare and innate ability to develop people. She has held various senior management positions in business development, marketing, and bid management for over 20 years. Izane joined nFold as a partner in 2021, where she continues to inspire success in others through thought leadership, training and strategy development.

www.nfold.com

More articles by Izane

Featured
Riding the wave
Apr 5, 2024
Riding the wave
Apr 5, 2024
Apr 5, 2024
Evolution of the Bid-Slinger: A Maverick’s Guide to Mastering the Proposal Game
Jan 21, 2024
Evolution of the Bid-Slinger: A Maverick’s Guide to Mastering the Proposal Game
Jan 21, 2024
Jan 21, 2024
A Pirate's Map to a Content Library Treasure Chest
Dec 17, 2023
A Pirate's Map to a Content Library Treasure Chest
Dec 17, 2023
Dec 17, 2023
Proposal benchmarking: The first step to a better win rate
Apr 29, 2022
Proposal benchmarking: The first step to a better win rate
Apr 29, 2022
Apr 29, 2022
How to Write an Executive Summary in 30 Seconds
Oct 23, 2021
How to Write an Executive Summary in 30 Seconds
Oct 23, 2021
Oct 23, 2021

 

 Izane Cloete-Hamilton is the Master of Inspiration at nFold, a certified APMP Professional and skilled thought leader and strategy developer. She has held various senior management positions in business development, marketing, and bid management. 









In Guest Blog Tags Izane Cloete-Hamilton, Proposal Writing
← Sell while you Sleep: Turn your knowledge into an automated online business and create a life of freedom by Krissy ChinHow to Make Self-Care a Lifestyle Without Guilt →

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS


LATEST PODCAST

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · AI Series Ep. 2 : AI-Human Collaboration in the Workplace

Lioness Radio Show: AI Series Ep. 2 : AI-Human Collaboration in the Workplace - Tune in for an engaging conversation designed to equip you with the knowledge to embrace AI and unlock its possibilities for your business.


LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORIES

LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY
Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas
Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas
Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy
Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy
Sydelle Willow Smith, a pioneer of solar-powered mobile cinema in Africa
Sydelle Willow Smith, a pioneer of solar-powered mobile cinema in Africa
Babette Kourelos, a passionate artisanal bread-baking business builder
Babette Kourelos, a passionate artisanal bread-baking business builder
Thandekile Moloko, an entrepreneur empowering her clients’ financial futures
Thandekile Moloko, an entrepreneur empowering her clients’ financial futures

IMAGE OF THE DAY. CELEBRATING WOMAN MADE IN AFRICA.

Image of the Day / Nokware Skincare

Sustainable skincare…We love to see natural cosmetics companies with a sustainable approach to business succeeding in Africa, and Nokware Skincare, founded by Tutuwa Ahwoi in Ghana is a great example. She f
Image of the Day / Marabou Essentials

African print accessories…We love the celebration of African printed cloth in these handmade fashion accessories created by South African brand Marabou Essentials, founded by Fentse Mokale. This passion-f
Image of the Day / Oryx Desert Salt

Sustainable salt and pepper…At Lionesses of Africa, we are passionate about supporting  sustainable brands, and a great example is Oryx Desert Salt, founded by Samantha Skyring in South Africa. This growing
Image of the Day / Reform Studio

Sustainable fashion accessories…We love showcasing women business innovators, so this morning we are featuring the work of sustainable lifestyle brand, Reform Studio, an inspirational eco-focused manufacturing
Image of the Day /Femi Handbags

Full Bloom Style…Add a touch of summer florals to your wardrobe with one of the beautiful new Bloom handbags from Femi Handbags in Nigeria, founded by Femi Olayebi. With their eclectic pops of colour, there&rsq
Image of the Day / Melvins Teas

Time for tea…If you love tea, then this Cool Chamomile tea from the Melvins Tea brand, founded by Flora Mutahi in Kenya is just what you need. The brand is part of Melvin Marsh International, the Kenyan-based f
Image of the Day / Afropian

Storytelling through accessories…Afropian, the Pan-african lifestyle brand founded by Ethiopean entrepreneur Hortense Mbea, is a rare, fully hand-made in Africa brand. It uses traditional know-how in a modern way t
Image of the Day / AAKS

Vibrant Ghanaian craftsmanship,…We just have to share one of our favourite accessories of the year, this beautiful hand-woven bag created by award-winning designer Akosua Afriyie-Kumi and her AAKS brand in Ghana. We lo
Image of the Day / Ledikana

Contemporary South African Chic…Knowing exactly how to spot a gap in the marketplace is key to the success of any fashion brand, and Mapholo Ratau, founder of Ledikana in South Africa, has achieved that goal. For h
Image of the Day / The 1964 Brand

Modern relaxed fashion…Olakunmi Oni is the founder of The 1964 Brand in Nigeria, a fashion business that proudly promotes self-care through minimalist clothing for the modern woman. Loyal patrons of The 1964
Image of the Day / Nokware Skincare

Sustainable skincare…We love to see natural cosmetics companies with a sustainable approach to business succeeding in Africa, and Nokware Skincare, founded by Tutuwa Ahwoi in Ghana is a great example. She f Image of the Day / Marabou Essentials

African print accessories…We love the celebration of African printed cloth in these handmade fashion accessories created by South African brand Marabou Essentials, founded by Fentse Mokale. This passion-f Image of the Day / Oryx Desert Salt

Sustainable salt and pepper…At Lionesses of Africa, we are passionate about supporting  sustainable brands, and a great example is Oryx Desert Salt, founded by Samantha Skyring in South Africa. This growing Image of the Day / Reform Studio

Sustainable fashion accessories…We love showcasing women business innovators, so this morning we are featuring the work of sustainable lifestyle brand, Reform Studio, an inspirational eco-focused manufacturing Image of the Day /Femi Handbags

Full Bloom Style…Add a touch of summer florals to your wardrobe with one of the beautiful new Bloom handbags from Femi Handbags in Nigeria, founded by Femi Olayebi. With their eclectic pops of colour, there&rsq Image of the Day / Melvins Teas

Time for tea…If you love tea, then this Cool Chamomile tea from the Melvins Tea brand, founded by Flora Mutahi in Kenya is just what you need. The brand is part of Melvin Marsh International, the Kenyan-based f Image of the Day / Afropian

Storytelling through accessories…Afropian, the Pan-african lifestyle brand founded by Ethiopean entrepreneur Hortense Mbea, is a rare, fully hand-made in Africa brand. It uses traditional know-how in a modern way t Image of the Day / AAKS

Vibrant Ghanaian craftsmanship,…We just have to share one of our favourite accessories of the year, this beautiful hand-woven bag created by award-winning designer Akosua Afriyie-Kumi and her AAKS brand in Ghana. We lo Image of the Day / Ledikana

Contemporary South African Chic…Knowing exactly how to spot a gap in the marketplace is key to the success of any fashion brand, and Mapholo Ratau, founder of Ledikana in South Africa, has achieved that goal. For h Image of the Day / The 1964 Brand

Modern relaxed fashion…Olakunmi Oni is the founder of The 1964 Brand in Nigeria, a fashion business that proudly promotes self-care through minimalist clothing for the modern woman. Loyal patrons of The 1964

STARTUP STORIES. MEET THE WOMEN WHO’VE LAUNCHED.

Featured
Gladys Kgorane, an entrepreneur creating special events and wellness retreats for those looking for rest and relaxation
Gladys Kgorane, an entrepreneur creating special events and wellness retreats for those looking for rest and relaxation
Drienie Botes, an entrepreneur empowering women to achieve economic independence through beekeeping
Drienie Botes, an entrepreneur empowering women to achieve economic independence through beekeeping
Tumelo Tshwagong, a South African agri-entrepreneur contributing to finding sustainable local solutions to addressing food insecurity
Tumelo Tshwagong, a South African agri-entrepreneur contributing to finding sustainable local solutions to addressing food insecurity
Gloria Sellwane Phala, a South African entrepreneur helping clients benefit from the transformative impact of yoga
Gloria Sellwane Phala, a South African entrepreneur helping clients benefit from the transformative impact of yoga
Nondumiso Leshaba, a South African business builder providing professional business advisory and accounting services to SMEs
Nondumiso Leshaba, a South African business builder providing professional business advisory and accounting services to SMEs

LIONESS DATA & INSIGHTS


LIONESS PLAYBOOKS



Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 6.01.32 PM.png
Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 5.34.58 PM.png

Sign up today to receive the #1-rated newsletters for Africa's women entrepreneurs.

* indicates required
Required: Please select your newsletter(s):


LIONESS BOOK REVIEWS

Featured
Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out  by Fiona Soutter
Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out by Fiona Soutter
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin
Feminine Intelligence: How visionary leaders can reshape business for good by Elina Teboul
Feminine Intelligence: How visionary leaders can reshape business for good by Elina Teboul
Bridging the Confidence Gap: How Empowered Women Change the World by Sheena Yap Chan
Bridging the Confidence Gap: How Empowered Women Change the World by Sheena Yap Chan

About Us  |  Contact Us  | PRIVACY POLICY | terms OF SERVICE  | Community Guidelines  

© 2025 LIONESSES OF AFRICA public benefit corporation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.