In part 1 of this series, I explained the difference between content editing (big picture re-writes) and copy editing (fine-tuned corrections), and lamented that we’re not all lucky enough to… Continue reading An introduction to editing for non-editors (Part 2) – copy editing

In an ideal world, we’d all work in proposal shops with dedicated proposal writers and editors. The proposal writers would interview SMEs to craft compelling, clean text, and the editor… Continue reading An introduction to editing for non-editors (Part 1) – content editing

Proposal managers routinely receive non-compliant, unclear, and dry content. Those asked to write proposals often resist because they aren’t good writers or they’re new to proposals. In this presentation, Julia… Continue reading APB: A Writing Model for Reluctant Writers, Enigmatic Engineers, and Circuitous SMEs [presentation slides]

Several years ago, a performer at Cirque Du Soleil died during a performance because of a mistake in her rigging. This was newsworthy not just because of the tragedy, but… Continue reading Lessons learned from the circus: consistently succeeding

With decreased federal budgets, there’s more competition for contractors than ever before. Whether you’re trying to get an edge on a “must win” opportunity, increase your capacity to respond to… Continue reading How to select the right consultant for you

As a hobbyist trapeze artist, I can attest the truth in jokes about managing proposals being like running a circus. Yes, it’s a juggling act with multiple performers dancing in… Continue reading Lessons learned from the circus: how to handle mistakes

Do you ever get bored or even sleepy when reviewing a proposal? Have you ever found yourself at the bottom of a paragraph, but you can’t recall what it said?… Continue reading How to increase audience engagement by varying your writing style

Technology has increased the capacity for what we can do in proposals, but with the plethora of new tech coming out, it’s hard to keep up and sometimes great products… Continue reading Using "Send Personally" in BD and proposals

At the end of the proposal lifecycle, we’re all looking to cut page count—either to fall within the maximum page count or to increase readability with whitespace. While writers should… Continue reading Editing to reduce the length of your proposals

Everyone involved in a hobby or sport is a part of that activity’s community. Those communities are sometimes known for certain characteristics—such as the dedication of runners or the intensity… Continue reading Lessons learned from the circus: building community for better teamwork (part 2 of 3)