As well as there being a range of advisable actions which constitute good tendering practice, there are also a number of things which aspiring tender applicants should look to avoid at all costs. Here they are:

1) Bad spelling. Spelling words poorly immediately makes you look like a sub-standard applicant. If you’re misspelling words, tender sellers might wonder what other basic errors you are making. Bad spelling, poor grammar and misuse of punctuation makes you look immediately unprofessional and chaotic.

2) Applying for tenders you cannot definitely fulfill. Don’t base anything on chance. If you only have an 80% chance of being able to fulfill a certain tender, it is best to not apply at all. Only apply if you are 100% sure you can fulfill it. Otherwise, you’re not only wasting everyone’s time but you also earn a bad reputation. As well as in terms of the practical and economic likelihood, don’t apply unless you are sure you have the commitment, enthusiasm and availability to fulfill the whole process.

3) Exaggerating. The chances are, if you exaggerate or lie outright, you’re going to get found out. It doesn’t help either party and it hurts your reputation. Remain factual and truthful at all times.

4) Applying without research. It’s crucial that you know what you’re getting into. The tender seller expects it too. If you don’t research thoroughly before applying, you are probably going to be in for some surprises – some of which will not be to your liking.

Tenders contracts are binding, so you can end up in big trouble if you don’t conduct yourself properly. Avoid the above 4 things before anything else. Repeatedly unsuccessful tender applicants usually, inadvertently or otherwise, commit one of them. The best thing to do is check everything through beforehand and always ask yourself if anything on your application could look bad in the eyes of the other parties.