Got a $25,500 contract this week. Almost lost it twice.
First almost-loss:
My proposal was too complex. 4 pages. 12 milestones. They got overwhelmed.
⚒️ Fix: Simplified to 1 page. 3 phases. Clear outcomes.
Second almost-loss:
Didn't explain the value, just the work. "We'll build X, Y, Z" means nothing.
⚒️ Fix: Reframed around outcome. "In 4 weeks, you'll have a platform doing X, saving $Y per month."
What sealed the deal:
- Discovery call where I just listened
- One-page proposal with clear ROI
- Milestone 1 was low-risk ($1,100)
- Fast response to every question (<2 hours)
Clients buy outcomes, not hours.
What's your best client-closing tip?