100 Words to Avoid 
Words to avoid in proposals
Crutch words – used when writers don’t understand what to say
We understand…
Never use the word “understand” in a proposal, other than in a section heading. To say “we understand your requirements” obfuscates any understanding and is, by definition, an unsubstantiated claim. On the other hand, if you say something insightful about how you will fulfill the requirements, the reader will see that the bidder understands the requirements. Understanding should be demonstrated, not claimed.
Leverage our experience…
“Leverage” is a word that some writers use when they know there is an advantage to be gained, but they don’t know how to do it. Explain “how” rather than infer. Do not use “leverage” in proposals unless you are talking about a mechanical lever and fulcrum.
Thank you for the opportunity…
Means, “We are desperate for your business and don’t really belong in the market.”
We look forward to…
Just provide a call to action. If the RFP allows it, simply state when you will contact them to schedule an oral or finalist presentation. Make sure to follow the timeline addressed in the RFP.
Boasting words – these exaggerate or overstate facts, causing loss of credibility state-of-the-art This is overused and is probably not credible. the right choice
Prove it. uniquely qualified, unique, very unique
Prove it. best of breed/class
Prove it. premier, world-class, world-renowned
Can’t be proven. Using it is wasting the evaluators’ attention. industry best practices, industry standard
Overused, unless recognized as such by an independent 3rd party. leading company, leading edge, leading provider, industry leader, pioneers, cutting edge, etc.
Overused and not believable. Don’t damage your credibility by using it.
Vague, useless words – these provide little value to the reader we are committed
Customers don’t want your commitment, they want results. we are quality focused
This is another way of stating your intentions. Instead of focusing
Crutch words – used when writers don’t understand what to say
We understand…
Never use the word “understand” in a proposal, other than in a section heading. To say “we understand your requirements” obfuscates any understanding and is, by definition, an unsubstantiated claim. On the other hand, if you say something insightful about how you will fulfill the requirements, the reader will see that the bidder understands the requirements. Understanding should be demonstrated, not claimed.
Leverage our experience…
“Leverage” is a word that some writers use when they know there is an advantage to be gained, but they don’t know how to do it. Explain “how” rather than infer. Do not use “leverage” in proposals unless you are talking about a mechanical lever and fulcrum.
Thank you for the opportunity…
Means, “We are desperate for your business and don’t really belong in the market.”
We look forward to…
Just provide a call to action. If the RFP allows it, simply state when you will contact them to schedule an oral or finalist presentation. Make sure to follow the timeline addressed in the RFP.
Boasting words – these exaggerate or overstate facts, causing loss of credibility state-of-the-art This is overused and is probably not credible. the right choice
Prove it. uniquely qualified, unique, very unique
Prove it. best of breed/class
Prove it. premier, world-class, world-renowned
Can’t be proven. Using it is wasting the evaluators’ attention. industry best practices, industry standard
Overused, unless recognized as such by an independent 3rd party. leading company, leading edge, leading provider, industry leader, pioneers, cutting edge, etc.
Overused and not believable. Don’t damage your credibility by using it.
Vague, useless words – these provide little value to the reader we are committed
Customers don’t want your commitment, they want results. we are quality focused
This is another way of stating your intentions. Instead of focusing