The key to writing a good tender is to be specific and detail how your capabilities match the client’s exact requirements.
You don’t have to be arrogant to sell your firm. Never kick off the tender by saying how great you are. Instead, show that you’ve listened to the client’s needs and found them the right solution. The way to do this is to identify and concentrate on the ‘win themes’ – the issues the client is most concerned with. Hopefully, you will have had an opportunity to ask them about these (see Preparing to write a tender). But invitations to tender usually give you clues about what they are and often state them directly (‘tenderers must have …’).
Win themes could include things like:
- completing the job within a tight time schedule
- attracting quality subcontractors
- project-management skills
- guarantees to stay on schedule
- health and safety procedures.
To some extent, most tenders should cover all these issues – among others. But make sure you focus more on the ones your client is particularly interested in. And then show how your firm can meet their needs.
One way of doing this with more complex tenders is to draw up a compliance matrix to make sure you’ve got a solution for everything the tender asks for.
This could give you the edge if you include it in the tender document itself.
Some people in the construction industry argue that tenders are usually won on price alone. No-one can dispute how important price is, and sometimes it may be the main factor (making it a win theme, of course). But never ignore the fact that whoever is in charge of the tendering process is also very interested in your firm – and what you can deliver over and above your competitors. Focus on these and you may well reduce the client’s sensitivity to price.
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Unique selling points
This doesn’t mean you should slate your competitors in your tender – far from it. But it does mean you should have a clear idea of what your firm’s USPs (unique selling points) are. Some examples might include:
- quality of finish and ability to deal with snagging quickly
- getting the job done within a tight timeframe and budget (without jeopardising quality)
- regular progress reports and updates to client
- client-satisfaction record and percentage of repeat business.
Make it clear why they should choose you. Don’t just make vague and clichéd claims such as ‘we deliver high- quality work within tight schedules’ or ‘we have considerable experience in the management of new office fit outs and refurbishments’. You need to substantiate these kinds of claims with supporting evidence. For example, ‘We have delivered 90 per cent of our jobs within budget and 60 per cent or our business comes from existing clients’.
Include a breakdown of all the various aspects of the work involved in the project. And don’t leave out things because you’re not sure if the client wants them or because you can’t price them accurately at this stage; it will look as though you’ve overlooked them. If necessary, put them in with a ‘tbc’. Don’t make assumptions. Just because the client or person managing the tender knows you, that doesn’t mean you can leave out vital information about your firm. What if there are some other crucial ‘influencers’ reading your tender who know nothing about you?
Finally, always go through your tender face to face if the tender process allows it. That way you can sort out any sticking points.
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.