What Should Be In Your Proposal (So Clients Say Yes)

So you’ve got a potential client who’s interested.
They ask, “Can you send over a proposal?”
You freeze.

Not because you can’t do the work — but because you’re not sure what to include… or how to make it sound professional.

Here’s the truth: your proposal isn’t just a formality.
It’s part of the sales process. And a great one can turn “maybe” into a definite yes.

Let’s walk through what should be in your proposal — and what makes one stand out.

🧩 1. Project Summary (That Shows You Get It)

Start with a short summary of what the client wants — in their own words.

This shows you’ve been listening, that you understand their goals, and that you’re not just sending a copy-paste offer.

Example:

“You mentioned wanting a new website to help convert more leads from Instagram. This proposal outlines a custom solution to do exactly that.”

💰 2. Scope of Work & Deliverables

Be super clear on what’s included (and what’s not).

Break it down into bullet points:

  • What you’re doing

  • What format it will be delivered in

  • How many rounds of edits (if applicable)

This avoids confusion, protects your time, and makes you look professional.

3. Timeline & Milestones

Let them know how long things will take, and when they can expect key milestones.
A timeline builds trust — and helps manage expectations early on.

💵 4. Investment & Payment Terms

Don’t just list a price. Use the word investment.
It positions your service as something valuable — not just a cost.

Be clear on:

  • The total price

  • Payment structure (e.g. 50% upfront, 50% on delivery)

  • How you’ll invoice and when

Bonus tip: Offer multiple pricing tiers if possible (e.g. Standard vs Premium). It gives people options — and often increases conversions.

🛡️ 5. Terms & Boundaries

Include things like:

  • Revision limits

  • Communication hours

  • What happens if either party needs to cancel or pause

  • Late payment penalties

This protects you and sets the tone for a respectful, professional relationship.

6. A Clear Next Step

End with a strong call to action.

Let them know exactly what to do next — whether it’s booking a call, signing a contract, or replying to confirm.

Example:

“If this all sounds good, just reply to this email and I’ll send over the agreement.”

💡 Your Proposal Isn’t Just a Quote — It’s Part of Your Brand

It’s a reflection of how you work, how you communicate, and the value you bring.
Take the time to make it thoughtful, clear, and on-brand — and your conversions will show it.


💬 Ready to Build a Business That Closes With Confidence?

Inside The Business Blueprint, we walk you through proposals, pricing, and the full sales process — with real templates and scripts that actually work.

👉 Join The Business Blueprint today and start turning more enquiries into paid clients.

Because knowing what to say (and how to say it) is part of doing business like a pro.

Join Today
Danielle Madden

This article was written by Danielle Madden, an award winning Squarespace website designer, marketer and graphic designer.

Ready to discuss your website project or marketing goals? Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards building your online presence!

Website: www.websbymads.com
Marketing: www.mads-online.com

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