Hello Evreyone,

Thank you all for the feedback on spec work. Fortunately something else has come across my desk. A product virtually unknown in the states is about to begin its marketing campaign. Tonight I spoke to CEO of the Americas Division. He gave me some history, background, marketing objectives, etc. He asked me to submit a proposal to him. He was open ended about page length and said there would be more work in the future. He discussed tying part of the comp to sales generated in the U.S. by the product as a result of using the letter.

Firstly, is there a standard format for a proposal? Or just an email laying it out there in terms of fees.....

Secondly, since spec is out of the question, should I charge him per page up front? Tell him for example, that I will provide him with four pages of copy for $250 a page with a sliding scale if he gives me additional assignments?

Do I write a headline and opening paragraph to give him example and then give him the fee? I know this is a good problem to have, I just don't want to screw it up like I did with the Chiropractor. Thanks again for any input you may have.

Hi Tim,

It's good to hear you've got another project. That's the way to gain a portfolio.

As for a proposal, as far as I know, there really is no standard proposal form, although there may be other copywriters on this forum that may use one. I just simply find out the clients specs, and write a proposal based on what the client wants done and my price for the work. I don't make it too complicated.

For instance, I amy provide a proposal like this:

Dear CEO (name goes here),
I understand you need someone to produce a sales letter for a product you are trying to sell to the US (or whatever the request is about). According to your requirements, you need this and that done.

I have so many years experience as a copywriter and have samples to provide you on request. Because of my background and years of experience, I propose a price of $1000 for the sales copy. My price also includes up to three revisions.

As for the price, I do require at least half up front with the rest on delivery of final document.

As soon as you approve my proposal I will need you to send me as much information about your product so I write the best sales copy for your product.

Thank you for your time and I look forward to working with you in the near future.

Sincerely,

Tim

I follow this type of format and get work every time with not too much hassle.

Hope it helps.

Harry

Thank you again Harry. I appreciate it. I am still unsure about what to charge since I don't have much I can base my decision on, other than what I think my time is worth........but thanks again for the help

Tim