Bid writer apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role from an entry level
specialist courses run by professional bodies
University
Some employers will expect you to have a degree. Relevant subjects include English, business management, sales and marketing. You could also study a subject relevant to an industry you want to specialise in, like IT, civil engineering or housing.
You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science. You'll need 2 to 3 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a degree.
Apprenticeship
You can work towards this role by completing a bid and proposal co-ordinator Level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship.
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for a Level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship.
Work
You could start as a trainee or junior bid writer. You’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths. Many employers will prefer you to have at
A-Levels.
You may also be able to work your way up through administrative jobs, especially in bid writing companies.Other Routes
The Association of Bid & Proposal Management Professionals offers certification qualifications for people working in bid and proposal writing. A professional marketing qualification may help you find work.
If you're preparing bids for international funding, the ability to speak other languages can help.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Association of Bid Proposal Management Professionals for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Bid writer apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of English language
- excellent written communication skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- administration skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Bid writer apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In a typical day you may:
- find out about possible business opportunities
- find out about the industry or service you’ll be writing the bid for
- talk and listen to clients
- gather evidence to answer Pre Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) questions
- collect data for bids like financial records
- check the rules the bid must follow
- work closely with planning teams
- present technical information in easy-to-understand ways
- design, write, edit and check bid documents
- keep accurate records and save material to a 'bid library' for future use
submit bids
Working environment
You could work at a client's business or in an office.
Career path and progression - Bid writer apprenticeships
You could become a team leader, senior bid writer, or bids and proposals manager.
You could also transfer your skills to other kinds of technical writing or contract management.