Bouncing Back: What to Do When Your Framework Application Falls Short
Applying for a framework can be a daunting process, and it’s not uncommon for small businesses to face rejection. While it’s disheartening, an unsuccessful application is not the end of the road. Here’s a guide to understanding why your application might have failed and how to turn this setback into a future success.
Understanding Why Your Application Was Unsuccessful
To improve your chances in the future, it’s crucial to understand why. At TenderHelp we’ve noticed common reasons for initial rejection include:
- Lack of Engagement with your Bid Writers: It is of paramount importance to provide your Bid Writer all the information they ask for. This includes answering every question and reviewing every draft they send you, and providing copies of your policies/procedures, examples of good practice, and evidence which backs up the claims made as part of the process e.g., Inspection Report Findings, Quotes from Happy Customers, Statistical Evidence.
- Lack of Financial Turnover Evidence: Financial stability is a key factor that evaluators look for. If you didn’t provide sufficient evidence of your financial health, such as recent audited accounts or bank statements, this could be a major reason for rejection.
- Lack of Local Knowledge: Demonstrating local knowledge and engagement is often crucial.
- Inappropriate References: References that don’t align with the scope of the framework or are outdated can undermine your application. Providing relevant, strong references that highlight your capabilities and experience is essential.
Next Steps After Rejection
- Check Re-submission Dates: After understanding why your application was unsuccessful, check when you can reapply. Many frameworks have specific re-submission windows, so mark these dates and prepare in advance.
- Appeal Quality Answer Feedback: Most frameworks offer feedback on unsuccessful applications. Use this feedback to understand the precise areas where your application was lacking. Don’t hesitate to request a detailed explanation if it’s not provided.
- Undertake a Lessons Learned Review: Conduct a thorough Lessons Learned review to systematically analyse what went wrong in your application, capturing insights and actionable steps for improvement in your next submission.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Consider hiring a consultant, like us, who specialise in tender and framework applications. We can provide expert advice and help you craft a more compelling application.
Addressing the Shortcomings
- Think of the Application as a Job Interview: Approach your application with the same seriousness as a job interview. Ensure you clearly demonstrate why you are the best fit for the framework. Highlight your strengths, experiences, and how you meet the framework’s requirements.
- Engage with your Bid Writer: Send them all information they asked you for during the previous application process. Respond to emails quickly on receiving a request for information. Remember, the quicker the initial drafts are created, more time is available for improving the quality of the response.
- Reapply with Improved Evidence: When preparing to reapply, make sure you address the areas previously identified as weak:
- Financial Turnover Evidence: Ensure you include detailed financial documents. Consider getting an accountant to prepare or verify these documents to enhance credibility. On occasion, Commissioners have accepted financial guarantors or bank bonds when turnover thresholds aren’t met.
- Local Knowledge: Engage with the local community and market. Undertake a community mapping exercise and benchmark your service against others in the area. Write an engagement plan specific to the area you’re applying to work in. Participate in local events, conduct market research, and include these findings in your application to demonstrate your commitment and understanding.
- Appropriate References: Secure strong, relevant references from recent projects that align closely with the framework’s scope. Ensure they reflect your ability to deliver quality and value.
- Enhance Your Application with Better Evidence: Use statistics, quotes, and testimonies to bolster your application:
- Business Accreditations: Obtain relevant certifications and accreditations that demonstrate your business’s qualifications and standards.
- Testimonials: Collect and include testimonials from satisfied clients, highlighting your successful project completions and positive impact.
- Statistics: Provide data that showcases your business’s performance, such as completion rates, customer satisfaction scores, and any other relevant metrics.
Additional Strategies for Success
- Network with Successful Applicants: Connect with businesses that have successfully secured places on the framework. Understanding their approach and learning from their experiences can provide valuable insights.
- Invest in Training and Development: Enhance your team’s skills and knowledge relevant to the framework. This could involve attending workshops, obtaining new certifications, or participating in industry events.
- Conduct a Mock Evaluation: Before resubmitting, conduct a mock evaluation of your application. TenderHelp can review it critically to identify any weaknesses or areas for improvement.
- Demonstrate Innovation: Highlight any innovative approaches or solutions your business offers. Frameworks often look for forward-thinking partners who can bring fresh ideas and improvements to the table.
Final Thoughts
- Facing a rejection can be a valuable learning experience. By understanding the reasons for an unsuccessful application and diligently working on the identified weaknesses, you can significantly improve your chances in the next round. We can help you with this.
Remember, persistence and continuous improvement are key. Treat your application process with the same diligence and preparation as a job interview and ensure all aspects of your submission are thorough and compelling.
In summary, don’t be discouraged by an unsuccessful framework application. Use it as an opportunity to refine your approach, strengthen your evidence, and reapply with greater confidence. Your perseverance and commitment to excellence will ultimately pave the way for success.