Casual

Proposal writing can seem daunting, especially when you’re facing a blank page and the pressure to impress potential clients or funders. However, crafting a compelling proposal doesn’t have to be a formal and stuffy affair. In fact, using casual English can often be more effective in conveying your message and building rapport with your audience.

This article will explore how to write winning proposals in a more conversational style, providing practical examples to illustrate the key principles.

1. Ditch the Jargon:

Formal: “The implementation of this project will necessitate the acquisition of specialized software.”

Casual: “We’ll need to buy special software to make this project happen.”

Formal: “The aforementioned objectives will be achieved through a multi-faceted approach.”

Casual: “We’ll reach our goals by using a few different methods.”

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Jargon can alienate readers and make your proposal seem pretentious. Instead of using complex terms, opt for clear and concise language that is easy to understand.

2. Use “You” Statements:

Formal: “This proposal outlines the benefits that this project will deliver to the organization.”

Casual: “This project will bring these benefits to your organization.”

Formal: “The client will be responsible for providing access to relevant data.”

Casual: “You’ll need to give us access to the necessary data.”

Using “you” statements helps you connect with your audience on a personal level. It shows that you understand their needs and are focused on delivering value.

3. Tell a Story:

Formal: “The proposed methodology will involve a comprehensive needs assessment followed by the development and implementation of a customized training program.”

Casual: “First, we’ll figure out exactly what your needs are. Then, we’ll create a unique training program just for you and help you put it into action.”

Instead of simply listing your services, weave a narrative that explains how your solution will address your client’s challenges and help them achieve their goals.

4. Show, Don’t Tell:

Formal: “The team possesses extensive experience in project management.”

Casual: “We’ve successfully managed dozens of projects, from small startups to large corporations.”

Formal: “The company is committed to providing exceptional customer service.”

Casual: “We’re always here for our clients. We’re known for our fast response times and our dedication to exceeding expectations.”

Instead of making broad claims about your skills and experience, provide specific examples and testimonials that demonstrate your capabilities.

5. Keep it Concise:

Formal: “The aforementioned deliverables will be submitted to the client on a bi-weekly basis.”

Casual: “We’ll give you updates every two weeks.”

Formal: “The budget for this project is inclusive of all labor, materials, and travel expenses.”

Casual: “This price includes everything: our work, the materials we need, and any travel costs.”

Avoid unnecessary jargon and wordiness. Get straight to the point and keep your proposal focused on the most important information.

6. Use Visual Aids (If Appropriate):

While this article focuses on text-based proposals, remember that visual aids can be very effective in conveying information in a concise and engaging manner. If appropriate for your audience and the nature of your proposal, consider incorporating charts, graphs, or diagrams to illustrate key points.

Example of a Casual Proposal Section (Project Timeline):

Instead of:

> “The project timeline is as follows: Phase 1: Needs Assessment (Weeks 1-2); Phase 2: Solution Design (Weeks 3-4); Phase 3: Implementation (Weeks 5-8); Phase 4: Evaluation (Weeks 9-10).”

Try:

> “Here’s how we’ll break down the project:

> First two weeks: We’ll get to know your needs inside and out.
> Weeks 3 and 4: We’ll design the perfect solution for you.
> For the next four weeks: We’ll put our plan into action.
> In the final two weeks: We’ll review how it all went and make sure you’re happy.”

Conclusion

By incorporating these casual English techniques into your proposal writing, you can create more engaging and persuasive documents that resonate with your audience. Remember to prioritize clarity, conciseness, and a conversational tone that builds rapport and trust.

FAQs

1. Can I use humor in my proposals?

Humor can be a powerful tool, but it’s important to use it judiciously. Ensure that your humor is appropriate for your audience and the context of your proposal. Avoid anything that could be perceived as offensive or unprofessional. A touch of wit can help you stand out and make your proposal more memorable.

2. How do I know if my proposal is too casual?

Read your proposal aloud and ask yourself if it sounds natural and professional. If it sounds too informal or overly familiar, you may need to revise it.

3. Will using casual English make my proposal seem less credible?

Not necessarily. In fact, using clear and concise language can actually enhance your credibility. By avoiding jargon and focusing on the value you can deliver, you demonstrate that you are confident in your abilities and can communicate effectively.

4. Should I always use casual English in all my proposals?

The level of formality will vary depending on the specific client, the nature of the project, and the industry. For example, a proposal for a tech startup might be more informal than a proposal for a government agency.

5. What are some resources for improving my proposal writing skills?

There are many resources available to help you improve your proposal writing skills, including online courses, workshops, and books. You can also find helpful tips and templates online.

I hope this article provides you with valuable insights into writing effective proposals using casual English. Remember to tailor your approach to each specific situation and always prioritize clarity and conciseness.

Proposal Writing Examples