Applying for business tenders in the UK can seem like a long and overly complicated process but, it doesn’t have to be - well…not the complicated part anyway… Tenders can boost your startup business into the stratosphere of business excellence simply by expanding its reach. The tender application is a long one but if you know what you’re doing you can have it completed sooner than you think. Here are 5 essential tips for navigating this arduous, but necessary, process.

Be Particular

Never rush out and apply for multiple tenders purely for the sake of getting more business. Take the time to read and understand the requirements of each contract and be honest about whether your business can provide what is required. There are so many outdated online portals and websites that deal with UK procurement tenders so make sure that the tender you are applying for is legitimate as well as valid.

Learn The Terminology

Procurement terminology seemingly grows by the day and all those abbreviations can end up being extremely intimidating unless you know what they mean. For example, PQQ tenders are much easier to understand once explained so make sure that you take the time to familiarise yourself with these terms and words before you start the application process.

Be Patient

Keep your wits about you for the duration of the tender application process, some days will be harder and more frustrating than others, but you need to be patient and remain calm. Every website and online tender portal should have a “help” section, please don’t be afraid to find it and use it. That way you won’t end up pulling out your hair if things don’t work the way you expected them to. If you can’t stay patient, then you need to consider hiring an experienced individual to handle all your applications.

Do Your Research

Do your research before you apply. Make sure that the site or portal is legitimate and operational. There are unscrupulous individuals out there who are out to scam unsuspecting businesses with dodgy or false applications. Make sure you only use reputable portals and websites, that way you can avoid wasting time and money on applications that go nowhere. With a bit of time spent online, you should be able to find a reputable portal in a reasonable amount of time.

Make Sure Your Business Is Ready

This one may seem obvious, but you would be surprised by the number of companies that suddenly change tack during the tender application process. Remember to stick to applying for tenders that your small business is qualified to provide. Not only that but don’t overextend yourself by applying for tenders and contracts that your business isn’t large enough to handle. If you have a home-based start-up, then don't try and apply for national tenders that require hundreds and thousands of products to be provided monthly. Rather, apply for the smaller and more local tenders that your business can properly handle. There is a big difference between being optimistic and being delusional.