A beginner's guide to responding to a tender

Public bodies and companies buy goods, works and services through tenders and quotations. Small businesses can win them, but only if they follow the rules.

Read the notice first

Check who is asking, what exactly is required, the closing date and time, where bids must be delivered, and whether there are fees for the bidding documents or a compulsory briefing or site visit. Missing a compulsory meeting can disqualify you.

Prepare your papers early

You will usually need your business registration, tax clearance, proof of relevant experience, references and sometimes a bid security. Start gathering these before a notice appears.

Price carefully and answer every question

Follow the format the documents ask for. An incomplete or late bid is normally rejected, however good the price.

Ask questions in writing

If something is unclear, use the clarification process in the notice rather than guessing.

Use Hareeeng's tenders page and email alerts so you never miss a closing date.