Winning a Contract: Steps to Take After Success

Notification of Winning

• Notification can come via phone call or email.
• Example: A call to process payment or registration in IPP (Invoice Processing Platform).

Reviewing the Contract

• Compare the contract with your submission.
• Check for consistency in pricing, dates, and quantities.
  • Example: Ensure that quantities like 80 tons are consistent.
• Assess if you can fulfill the contract terms.
• Avoid unnecessary legal review; focus on ensuring terms match submissions.

If You Can't Fulfill the Contract

• Do not sign if fulfillment seems unfeasible.
• Communicate with the agency to be removed from consideration.
• Withdrawing is not detrimental; agencies may re-invite you to bid.

Importance of Communication

• Key to success: Over-communicate and manage projects well.
• Ensure all parties are informed about roles and responsibilities.

Signing the Contract

• Electronic or physical signing options.
• Understand payment processes (various systems like IP, faxes for GPO, DOD systems).

Kickoff Calls

• Internal Call: Inform involved vendors or service providers.
  • Reaffirm partnerships and share contact details.
• External Call: Arrange with the client within a week.
  • Discuss roles, responsibilities, and contact details.
  • Review invoicing procedures and protocols.

Managing Expectations

• Identify and discuss any uncommunicated expectations.
• Use agendas for clarity in meetings.

Executing the Contract

• Ensure quality control and that deliverables are signed off.
• Understand client-specific reporting and billing cycles.
  • Identify if reports are needed (weekly, monthly, or none).

Delivering the Service/Product

• Ensure the client 'uses the thing' for financial flow.
• For long-term projects, establish a rhythm for reports and payments.

Conclusion

• Delivering on promises is more challenging than winning the contract.
• Resources available at winnerswaybook.com and proposalwins.com.
• Encouragement to put in effort and believe in possibilities.