EP333: Why Your Proposals Aren’t Landing Clients (Yet)

If you’ve ever felt confused or discouraged after sending what you thought was a strong proposal—only to be met with silence—this episode is for you. I am sharing hard-earned insight into why even skilled writers often struggle with landing clients during the proposal stage.

In this episode, you’ll learn the most common mistakes freelance writers make in their proposals and what to do instead. I emphasize the importance of clarity, relevance, and confidence—while helping you shift away from vague, bio-style proposals toward sales communication that reflects a deep understanding of the client’s goals.

Key Takeaways

• Why proposals that focus too much on you (and not enough on the client) don’t convert

• The difference between a bio and a proposal—and why many writers confuse the two

• What to listen for during a discovery call and how to use that information in your proposal

• How to communicate value clearly without fluff or vague promises

• Why including a clear next step is essential for landing clients

• The three things every client wants to see in your proposal: relevance, clarity, and confidence

• Why even new nurse writers can successfully pitch and win projects if they focus on outcomes

• The myth of “great writing is enough” and how sales communication truly closes the deal

Action Steps for Writers

• Review your last proposal: does it lead with the client’s needs or your credentials?

• Remove vague language and clearly state deliverables, process, and timelines

• Add a compelling, actionable next step (trial project, calendar link, proposed start date)

• Reflect your client’s language and goals back to them—show them you’re listening

• Make it easy to say “yes” by showing you’re prepared, professional, and ready to begin

Mentioned in This Episode

• Savvy Nurse Writer Membership – Get access to the November masterclass: The 5-Part Proposal Framework for Landing Clients

• Facebook Group – Join the free Savvy Nurse Writer Community

Proposals are more than formalities—they are your sales tools. Make them specific, client-driven, and results-oriented. If you’re not landing clients, your proposal might not be the problem—it might just need a shift in structure and tone.

More related episodes!

• EP280: Mastering Proposals to Close Deals Successfully
• EP278: Crafting Proposals for a Potential Client
• EP275: Creating Successful Proposals Tailored to Your Audience with Tina Baxter
• EP277: Proposal Perfection: Winning Clients with Your Words with Frederick Dudek
• EP328: Why High-Value Clients Are the Game Changer for Nurse Writers