Product Description
Here's the guide you've been looking for -- written by a successful consultant who has himself written hundreds of winning proposals. In this easy-to-read, easy-to-follow book, consultant Alan Weiss takes you step-by-step through the proposal process from definitions, objectives and essential preparation techniques...through the actual structuring and writing process...and on to the all-important client follow-up. How to Write A Proposal That's Accepted Every Time shows you how to acquire the information that creates winning proposals in collaboration with the buyer. "That's the key to proposal acceptance," says Weiss, "Collaboration with and agreement by the client prior to anything being committed to paper." In this practical guide you'll learn how to -- Avoid gatekeepers and deal only with the economic buyer (the person who can cause a check to be signed); Establish boundaries and avoid "scope creep."; Effectively convey the value of the project; Frame your intervention in terms of outcomes rather than cost; And much more. Let this detailed, how-to guide lead you to consulting success, before, during and after the proposal process! Book & CD
Customer Reviews:
A Practical Blueprint ..........2007-09-08
Worth whatever the current going price is as you read this.
Good for you if you need a blueprint or a template for creating winning proposals for consulting assignments.
I would suggest that you use this along with information freely available from Perry Marshall.
Excellent........2007-03-08
Although I tend to find that most of the books in the "Ultimate" series have lot's of repetition, each is specific on its focus. It's difficult to dissociate the topics in his other books completely. For example, I find it quite normal for a discussion on proposals to also include a topic on fees or customer interaction. Alan Weiss has two seperate books on these specific examples. I recommend that you buy the entire series. Sure it's a few hundred bucks and you will find that in total about 50% of the content is repated elsewhere. But that's fine. It will only sink in better and what really counts is that on aggregate you get excellent value for your money.
Excellent but Redundant.......2007-02-15
This book contains all you need to know regarding the preparation of a consultancy appraisal. Alan Weiss is truly the expert when it comes to this. I will say this, however. Unless you require the additional "hand holding" contained herein, you can get essentially the same wisdom from his book "Million Dollar Consulting Toolbook". I agree with another reviewer that if you cannot afford spending a hundred bucks or so to help get your business started, you probably are not adequated capitalized. However, there is no sense in spending a hundred more than you have to. If you can afford it, buy this one, if not, get the other one i mentioned.
Looking for a book that is TOTALLY appropriate for the PROFESSIONAL Consultant? Seek no further!.......2007-02-07
For the first time, and I do not know why, I have found a book that is full of relevant advice, common sense, and just good stuff all round! Since the start of my career as a consultant in 1989, and not finding anything like this, this book is going to revolutionize any consulting practice. A definite "NEED TO" book for ALL consultants who call themselves PROFESSIONAL. Allan, to you, just complements.... Will meet you somewhere along the path...
How to Write a Proposal That's Accepted Every Time - You Need This Book!.......2005-12-17
I purchased this book earlier this year. While we don't often submit written proposals, we used the techniques to close over $200,000 in business in the first few months.
Then, mid-year we had four different opportunities to submit written proposals. I used the checklists and templates to craft winning proposals. We actually decided not to do business with one client after working through the proposal. The other three proposals were accepted. The three written proposals were worth $417,000.
I'd say my $149.00 investment had a huge ROI and will continue to do so.
This book is a MUST HAVE for new and seasoned consultants. Alan gives the best information you can find. He gives you practical and applicable information based on his own model of success. Also read The Million Dollar Consultant...unless you're not interested in succeeding as a consultant.
Book Description
Studies show that U.S. companies lose approximately $75 billion annually on failed or mismanaged projects. Avoid the many pitfalls and deliver projects on time, within budget, and of the scope and quality desired by the client, with a highly successful tool called the Statement of Work (SOW).
In Delivering Project Excellence with the Statement of Work, author Michael Martin explains what an SOW is ... how it's developed and used on a project to establish a baseline, develop pricing, and measure changes and profitability ... and how to communicate and sell the importance of the SOW to the client and your own organization.
Included with this book is a bonus CD-ROM with sample SOWs, templates, and forms to help you manage change to the project throughout its life cycle. This is a must-have book for every project leader, manager, team member, or client.
Customer Reviews:
Solid Book !.......2004-11-17
Mr. Martin did a magnificent job explaining what an SOW is and when it should be created. He also explains in detail the creation of an SOW and how it applies to the government and private business sectors. If you are familiar with SOW's you can skip Chapters 1-3 and dive into Chapter 4. I strongly recommend Chapter 5-7.
Chapter 1: Defining the Statement of Work
Historical Perspective on the SOW
Industry Standard Definition of the SOW
Definition of the SOW in the New Economy
Chapter 2: The Importance of the SOW in Managing Projects
Reasons for Having a SOW
Benefits of the SOW
Chapter 3: When to Do an SOW
Consequences of Lack of Guidance for the Private Sector
When an SOW Should Be Done
Types of SOW's and When They Apply
Chapter 4: Who Should Develop the SOW
Building the TIGER Team
Building the Cone of Cohesion
Chapter 5: Building the SOW foundation
Performing Due Diligence
Building the WBS
Chapter 6: Framing the SOW
Developing the SOW Framework
Structure of the Baseline SOW framework
Chapter 7: Finalizing the SOW
Drafting a Quality SOW
Role of the SOW in Pricing the Project
Reviewing the SOW
Role of the SOW in the Contract
Chapter 8: Sample SOW's
(this chapter breaks down the examples included on the CD)
Chapter 9: Managing Change to the SOW
The importance of Managing Change
Identifying When a Change Occurs
Factors to Consider in Managing Changes to the Project
Tools for Managing Change to the Project
Chapter 10: Selling the Importance and Benefits of the SOW
I would have preferred a variety of SOWS on the included CD giving examples of different types of projects. The templates that are included on CD were helpful. I was able to immediately use the template for one of my projects. I was very satisfied with my purchase.
Book Description
Compete Successfully for Shrinking Funding Dollars
In the existing climate of increased competition for reduced funding dollars, writing a winning grant proposal is essential.
Get the answers to your most troublesome questions. Drawing on over 60 years of experience in the field, authors Dr. Mary Hall, and Susan Howlett take you step by step, through this complex and sometimes frustrating process. Everything is covered, from current trends in funding to all the nuts and bolts necessary for writing a successful proposal.
By illustrating points with clear examples, incorporating checklists, a teaching guide for instructors, and other useful tools to keep you on track, the 4th Edition of Getting Funded continues to be the definitive reference on writing grant proposals available today.
You will learn how to:
Test the appeal of your idea
Measure your organization's capability to carry out what it proposes
Research and develop your idea
Select the most promising funding sources
Construct your proposal from abstract to budget, using proven management planning procedures.
Present and negotiate your proposal
Prepare for a subsequent round of funding
Who Should Use Getting Funded?
Everyone responsible for raising funds:
Researchers
Scientists
Social service program personnel
Educators
Health Professionals
Nonprofit organization development personnel
Graduate students involved in dissertation planning
Everyone who oversees organizations involved in fundraising:
Elected and appointed officials
Nonprofit organization board members and executives
University administrators
Research and project directors
Everyone who plans and seeks support for new programs or ventures:
Public sector administrators proposing new programs
Private sector managers proposing new ideas or initiatives
What's new in this edition?
Web resources and numerous helpful checklists
A brand new section for instructors teaching proposal writing including a sample syllabus for 11-week and 3-week courses and suggested assignments for each chapter
More guidance and examples for small organizations in addition to larger, more sophisticated applicants
Customer Reviews:
best grant writing book ever.......2007-09-17
This is a great and informative book. Easy to follow and understand. If you are trying to write grants and new help with fundrasing this is the book for you
excellent as a textbook or for the professional writing grants.......2007-07-13
I am using this book as a textbook in my business bachelor's degree program. The professor who is a professional grant writer for a Florida college picked this book as she said it covered all the basics with easy to understand steps. I agree, it has been so helpful that I am using it to write a grant for the non-profit that I work for. The website addresses, examples and sample letters are great!
Excellent Book...........2007-06-10
This book is packed with great information. I like the writer's approach and level of information. I'd also suggest the "Government funding and you series too." Enclosed is a link to this product series. Both titles are highly recommended. The other grant series also has a video too.
-C
Government Funding and You: The Workbook (Government Funding and You)
It Is a Complete Guide.......2004-08-30
Getting Funded
The complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals
Mary Hall, PhD. & Susan Howlett
Portland State University
Portland, Oregon
174 pages including appendices
Reviewed by
Jan Tunnell
Tunnell & Associates
Orlando, Florida
I found this book intriguing. As an experienced (25+ years) professional, I approached this assignment with an "I will see if they did it right" attitude. Not only do they do it right, but I enjoyed the content, arrangement of information, and style of presentation. I found myself mentally noting things I have tried to share with clients or peers - and wishing I could underline passages and stick the book under a few noses. Validation is wonderful, but I also learned new techniques and viewpoints and got an update on several topics.
The book is divided into parts:
Part One: Essential Planning Steps
Chapter 1 Getting Started
Chapter 2 Assessing Your Capability
Chapter 3 Developing the Idea
Chapter 4 Selecting the Funding Source
Considerable space is given to guiding an agency through the process of planning to prepare an application - how I wish this step was the norm instead of the exception! The first four chapters are devoted to this crucial step - and they are the chapters I want more agencies to use. So often the attitude is "we need money, write a grant", not knowing or caring that you can only write applications. The planning step is mostly unknown or ignored. Hopefully, these four chapters will encourage new applicants to start off on the right foot and actually think before they leap. This information will also be appreciated by experienced grant writers - they know this but can't get their administration to listen. Here is support for their unheeded cries.
The nine chapters on preparing the application are thorough, well presented, clear, and concrete.
Part Two: Writing and Submitting the Proposal
Chapter 5 Writing the Proposal
Chapter 6 Title Page, Abstract, and Accompanying Documents
Chapter 7 Writing the Purpose Statement
Chapter 8 Writing the Statement of Need
Chapter 9 Procedures
Chapter 10 Evaluation
Chapter 11 Qualifications and Personnel
Chapter 12 The Budget
Chapter 13 Review, Submission, Notification, and Renewal
Every possible section and subsection of an application is covered in easy to understand language. Samples of standard pages and suggested formats are included in the body of the text, where they are most relevant. Charts provide summary and detail of specific topics in an easy to understand format. Differences among government, private foundation, corporate, and research applications are explained and the components of each are listed, including required attachments.
One of my favorite sections is a working timeline. All too often someone in an agency notices that there is funding available, gets all excited about applying, and then casually mentions that the deadline is next week. The planning timetable shows the uninitiated exactly how long each process takes, and what the working order should be.
The information is current; time lines, PERT charts, and logic models are included and explained. An entire chapter is devoted to evaluation methodology, a relatively recent requirement many are still uncomfortable dealing with and preparing. The authors even include an overview of the review process, and a list of the Seven Deadly Sins of Proposal Writing.
Appendix A Proposal Development Checklist
Appendix B Resources for Teachers
Appendix A is a summary of each chapter, with a check list of salient points and tasks. It will serve as a handy review and reminder when you get down to the wire and the group starts to lose focus. I probably won't use the syllabus for a nine-week course in Appendix B, but I am most interested in the outline for a one-day seminar. For the truly serious, there is a section of assignments for each chapter, these are handy for a curriculum, but could also be used by an agency as an on-going group project to focus and integrate the grant writing team.
This is a resource for both beginning and experienced applicants. Every page has something new and/or interesting. As I went through the chapters, I kept wanting to add to this review, calling attention to this topic or that technique. I can't go on forever, so go get the book. I'm not sharing my copy.
The best "how to" for grantwriters.......2004-05-29
Grant writing is one of those activities for which there are many "how to" books. The real dilemma for novices-or even those of us with a few grants under our belt-is which book to adopt as our handy desk reference, its well-thumbed pages peppered with hi-liter and sticky notes. Getting Funded:The Complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals by Mary Hall and Susan Howlett fits this role perfectly.
The latest update of a classic on the subject, this 2003 edition provides an excellent overview of all aspects of grantwriting, beginning with the most important steps of assessing the grant-applying organization's readiness and capacity for taking on the project and securing the necessary funding. Each of the 13 chapters are well-written and organized by sub-headings that assist the grantwriter to quickly locate and digest guidance at the applicable step in the long process of developing and writing a fundable grant application. Most of the chapters include a checklist that serves as a summary of the chapter as well as a handy reference tool for assuring all issues have been addressed
What I especially appreciated about this book was its continual reminder that the process of developing a project and writing a grant proposal is in itself a valuable learning experience. If it weren't so difficult to write a winning proposal, if funders didn't require such a high showing of competence and commitment, money would surely be easier to come by, but there is no guarantee that we would be spending it wisely. The process of grant development and writing, from budgets to case statements for our organizations, drives us in the non-profit world to ensure that our projects are the best and highest use of grantor funds to serve the needs of our communities. I highly recommend Getting Funded as the best resource available to help achieve this goal.
Cynthia Haruyama, Executive Director of Hoyt Arboretum Friends, Portland, Oregon
Book Description
Are you writing a grant application for the first time? Maybe you’re a veteran fundraiser looking to sharpen your grant writing skills. No matter how experienced you are at writing requests for money, people and organizations are not going to support you just because you’re in need.
Grant Writing for Dummies, 2
nd Edition shows you the most effective way to compose a grant proposal and get funding from governments, corporations, foundations, and more! This hands-on, step-by-step guide leads you through researching options, dealing with application forms, handling potential sponsors, and getting the money you need. Revised and up-to-date, this book covers everything you need to know to:
- Fill out federal grant application kits
- Win grants from corporations and foundations
- Gain support from an individual grantor
- Obtain grants from international funds
- Meet the review criteria of government grants and contracts
- Choose the right word to win funds
- Master cover letters, abstracts, and more
- Let prospective grantors know your deal
- Put the finishing touches on your application
Demystifying the process of grant writing, this all-out guide gives you just the facts with no information withheld. You’ll get savvy tips on organizing your writing, developing your style, personalizing your requests, and how to handle your rejection and move forward. Also included is a complete example of a grant application narrative. With Grant Writing for Dummies, 2
nd Edition, you’ll be able to craft effective proposals and go for the gold!
Customer Reviews:
Good Intro.......2007-04-25
This is a good intro, without much information on actual grants for specific purposes. If you are an educator, non-profit, or individual interested in grants related to technology, for innovation, curriculum, development, emerging technologies, I recommend Technology Grant News: Everything Technology: Awards-Contests-Grants-Scholarships. Technology Grant News: Everything Technology [2007]:Awards ¿ Contests ¿ Grants -Scholarships ¿ Fellowships
Grant writing for dummies....as a reference.......2006-11-13
This is a good starter book, but it does not provide quality resources for you to practice the skills gained. You should build your skills with quality templates, references, wording techniques. I would caution readers to move on to a good intermediate work like Government Funding and You. This book will provide you with the skills to put together a quality grant with the potential LAND that grant. This book is an excellent start, but Government Funding and You is a crucial next step.
Awarded $250,000 Federal grant because of this book!.......2006-08-26
I was working at a NON-PROFIT organization and the departing Executive Director refused to submit a renewed grant request to a Federal agency. I was tasked to do it instead within one week. I had no support of the staff or Board of Directors because they did not have a clue of the process. I had never written a grant. So, I purchased this book and read it over the weekend. It was easy to read and made sense. I simply followed the book...identified a problem/an unmet need and a way to solve it. Thank you! The agency was awarded $250,000 to fund two of the full-time employees over a 2 year period.
Love this series!.......2006-07-22
Each one of the "Dummies" books has been so helpful, not only for me but for my daughter who is in high school. Everything from religion to business. "Grant Writing for Dummies" is in keeping with the others: very informative, gets to the point for the layperson, and is done in a very easy-to-use format. So far, I haven't come across one book in this series that isn't helpful!
I Can Do This!.......2005-07-26
I found this book extemely helpful and easy to read. It reduced the mystery of the grant world to something even I could understand. Based on the title, I have to say that I can do this!
Customer Reviews:
Viewpoint of a novice.......2007-01-10
I bought this book because I was to lead a group in developing an RFP but had no experience with RFP's. I don't know how this book will meet the needs of anyone with a lot of experience but I am extremely impressed by its readability, organization, and applicability. I'm still working on the project but have gotten good feedback on what I've developed, which I could not have done without the guidance and information in the book. It is logically sequenced and appears to cover all bases, though someone with a lot more experience would be better able to assess this. Impressed? Very.
RFP Review.......2006-03-15
The book is an easy read and provides me with the needed understanding of developing an RFP and template.
Resource and guidelines with a coherent approach.......2004-03-01
There are literally hundreds of good books on proposal writing, but only a tiny handful on writing RFPs. From among the handful this book stands out for a number of reasons:
(1) It clearly described the RFP process from start to finish - and RFP development is a process with a defined life cycle.
(2) The author goes well beyond the immediate objective of writing an RFP and managing the process by including thought-provoking material on post-award vendor management. This material sometimes escapes the RFP development team who is more focused on getting to the award milestone without thinking about the post-award ramifications.
(3) It's not boring - the writing is lively, and the material is presented at a fast pace. The pace, however, does not leave gaps. Every facet of the RFP process is covered in sufficient detail.
In addition to the above, the approach set forth in this book is consistent with best practices in RFP development. I especially like the copious checklists, the RFP roadmap, and the way illustrations are skillfully used to reinforce concepts and advice.
Note that the focus of this book is information technology and software acquisition. Some of the material is unique to those domains; however, the basic principles and RFP process can be used for virtually any type of RFP, from office services to purchasing furniture.
Overall, this is the one book I recommend for RFP development. If you are an IT professional, regardless of role, the chances are you will be involved in this process at some point in your career, making this book a valuable addition to your library. If you have recently been assigned to an RFP team you should get this book as soon as possible, and use it as your compass and blueprint if your organization does not already have a formal RFP process in place.
Good Resource.......2003-05-13
A great resource for preparation and review of an RFP. A helpful guide for people with and without RFP experience.
The RFP book that htelp me to do the job well done.......2003-01-04
I was in charge to define the RFP for a big imaging system project and this book gave me the tools to plan, supervise and create the RFP that point out the requirements, so the providers can easily develop the correct solution in their proposal.
This book is ahead. Has very good explanation (easy to read and understand), well structured and the examples are good to have a clear idea of the content that should have all the topic of the RFP. It gave me the tools to map the plan, the definition of the requirements and the development of the RFP document.
This book must be in any library.
Book Description
This is the revised and expanded edition of the most sought-after guide for everyone seeking grants: nonprofits, state and local governments, universities, school administrators, teachers, artists, and those seeking funds for scholarly and cultural enterprises. Written by two authors who have won millions of dollars in grants — and updated to include vital information and advice accumulated since The Only Grant-Writing Book You’ll Ever Need first appeared — this new edition provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for grant writers, demystifying the process while offering indispensable advice from funders and grant recipients. It includes the following.
• Guidance on developing a realistic, cost-effective, collaborative program
• Concrete suggestions (with practice exercises and examples) for approaching each section of a grant so that the proposal is absolutely clear to the funder
• A glossary of terms with any word, phrase, or concept a grant writer may need, plus fifty tips for writing a winning proposal
• Funders roundtables put you inside the minds of the people who award grants
Customer Reviews:
Grant-Writing book recommendation.......2007-09-11
This book is very well-organized, presenting the information in a step-by-step manner that makes it manageable for neophyte would-be grant-writers. I have no doubt that it will serve me well as a continuing resource even as I gain skills and experience.
Helped me through my class!.......2007-05-14
I used this book for a grant writing class I've taken and found it to be a great guide. It's written well and very user friendly. This is definately a book that I'll keep and use through the years when it comes to writing future grants! The resources in the back are helpful and it's fun taking the quizzes and realizing how much I know. Good book...worth buying.
More for organizations than individuals.......2007-04-05
It more geared towards someone writing for grants for a non-profit as opposed to artist/business grants.
Outstanding Guideline.......2007-01-10
Outstanding guideline for anyone needing advice and direction
in regards to writing proposals. Also shows how to present your
group or organization in the best light.
I enjoyed this book.............2006-11-14
This was the first grant-writing book I ever purchased. It has been some time indeed. This is a quality book, but it doesn't provide alot of sources for funding. I would suggest Government Funding and You for a more complete view. But I would very strongly suggest this book.
Book Description
Madsen's book should be welcome both to graduate students about to undertake dissertations and to faculty needing to learn the role of thesis adviser. . . . Madsen tells how to propose, outline, write, defAnd, and possibly publish a dissertation, information which should save graduate students years, pain, and money.
--Library Journal
Customer Reviews:
Woefully out-of-date.......2007-05-19
The author refers to the "microcomputer" and suggests you consider purchasing a modem and getting to know your library's card catalog. Sure, it's always good to choose the right adviser, but any book can tell you that. Get something more recent.
Concise and Complete.......2000-09-09
If you are about to start work on a disertation and intend to buy just one book on how to manage it, this would be a very good choice. However do read more than one!
A comprehensive guide to the dissertation!.......1999-04-13
As someone who works privately with students, helping them with dissertations and theses, I highly recommend this book. When students call me in regard to assistance with their dissertation or thesis, I recommend that they buy this book and use it as an ongoing reference. As the title states, the information contained in this book anticipates and answers many of the questions that students have about the dissertation process, from proposal to completion. It is the most comprehensive guideline that I have come across in recent years.
A comprehensive guide to the dissertation!.......1999-04-13
As someone who works privately with students, helping them with dissertations and theses, I highly recommend this book. When students call me in regard to assistance with their dissertation or thesis, I recommend that they buy this book and use it as an ongoing reference. As the title states, the information contained in this book anticipates and answers many of the questions that students have about the dissertation process, from proposal to completion. It is the most comprehensive guideline that I have come across in recent years.
Book Description
Previous editions of this book have helped over 100,000 students and professionals write effective proposals for dissertations and grants. Covering all aspects of the proposal process, from the most basic questions about form and style to the task of seeking funding,
Proposals That Work offers clear advice backed up with excellent examples. In the new edition, the authors have integrated a discussion of the effects of new technologies and the Internet on the proposal process with URLs listed where appropriate. In addition, there is a new chapter on funding for student research and a completely written chapter on qualitative research. As always, the authors have included a number of specimen proposals, two that are completely new to this edition, to help shed light on the important issues surrounding the writing of proposals.
Clear, straightforward, and reader-friendly,
Proposals That Work is a must-own for anyone considering writing a proposal for a thesis, a dissertation, or a grant.
Customer Reviews:
The Only Proposal Guide You Need.......2002-12-30
As any graduate student will tell you acceptance onto a Ph.D program is largely based on submitting a successful proposal. Thereafter, as long as the researcher adheres to the proposal, graduation is virtually guaranteed. I am a Ph.D student who used the book to construct my proposal, which was summarily accepted by the research committee with minor changes. This appears to be contrary to what many Ph.D hopefuls experience. The book is expensive however I would highly recommend it. The proposal hurdle is well worth overcoming professionally.
Book Description
Want to publish your book?
Learn how—it's easier than you think!
Charismatic authors and literary agents Jeff Herman and Deborah Levine Herman have successfully sold hundreds of titles and learned—through trial and error—how to write a flawless book proposal that publishers can't resist. Now you can benefit from their hard work and publishing savvy. In this new edition, they offer guidance and advice that will inspire, educate, and, most importantly, give you the necessary edge to get your book published. They explain:
•How to shape your idea and create a title
•Ways to get to know the market and competition
•Tips on writing an effective outline, query letter, and sample chapter
•The art and science of fiction and nonfiction book proposals
•How ten actual proposals (included here) were successfully sold to publishers—and why
"A submission from Jeff Herman always gets moved to the top . . . his new book will show you how to move to the top."—Frederic W. Hills Vice President, Simon & Schuster
"This book will take writers to the highest level of proposal writing and success."—Roger Cooper Quality Paperback Book Club
"If you want your proposal to ignite a busy editor's interest, read this book."—Adrienne Hickey Senior Acquisitions Editor, AMACOM Books
Customer Reviews:
Great for samples.......2007-10-18
I used this book along with Michael Larson's How to Write a Book Proposal and Elizabeth Lyon's book on Non-Fiction Book Proposals. Larson's and Lyon's books were better at explaining each section and how to create interest, but I liked this book for the actual examples. When I was ready to write a section, I'd read about it in the other books, and then read the samples in this book.
I was successful in getting an agent who asked what books I used in creating my proposal as she said it was very good. I have since sold the book to a publisher as well.
I Was Very Disappointed.......2007-04-12
Unless you are writing a book along the lines of "How To Succeed In The Business World," or a book on genealogy, or self help, I recommend that you do not buy this book. The agents who wrote the book appear to be mainly focused on books for the business world. The book that I've written is an explosive exposé on the CIA and bipartisan corruption in the government, but absolutely none of the ten "sample book proposals" in "Write the Perfect Book Proposal" were of any use. But to be fair, this book might be for you if you are writing about business, or self help, or genealogy. (One of the sample proposals deals with genealogy.)
outdated.......2007-03-20
outdated, pick something on the same subject by someone else that was published this year; this one has extremely stale info. The world of publishing has changed dramatically since it was written 8 years ago or more, with much new info about cybermarketing and other strong ways of reaching audiences and potential publishers. Also, make sure the book you read is about the kind of book you have written /are writing. There are different approaches needed to reach publishers, depending.
Writing a book proposal.......2007-01-15
This is a very good primer on writing a book proposal. It addresses all the key areas that need be included. It's point of differentiation is that it provides 10 examples of proposals that worked. Hence, you really get some good directly usable ideas for headlines and for content within. I was a bit surprised to find as much as 75% devoted to examples...but that ultimately is good. Too often the frontend text is vague, as it must be, but the proposal examples give you much more meat.
Great Book - buy it!.......2007-01-12
Folks,
This is a great book because it lays everything out for you in a simple and easy to understand manner. If you are looking for something that is quick and easy to understand, this is the book for you.
The examples are great because you actually get to see what a real book proposal looks like. The author also tells you what is both good and bad about the examples.
It's a great book that is a quick read...
Enjoy,
Ken Konet
Customer Reviews:
Good but old.......2006-06-25
The elements of business writing give good point to look at.But the book is old and sometime give weird information.It's not an important book to have but, but still have some info.
Very helpful, easy to read........2006-02-01
This book was easy to read and very helpful in communication skills.
One the best guides for business writers.......2005-03-16
This book, with an obvious nod to Strunk and White (which it surpasses), lists 67 principles of good writing, with about two pages each of details and examples. It's on the short list of recommended resources in my book The McGraw-Hill 36-Hour Course in Business Writing and Communication.
A valuable writing guide.......2004-02-21
Remarkably concise and informative, The Elements of Business Writing: A Guide to Writing Clear, Concise Letters, Memos, Reports, Proposals, and Other Business Documents by Gary Blake and Robert W. Bly is more than just a tool for business people. Taking a common sensical approach, as opposed to a lofty educated tone, Messrs. Blake and Bly do not restrict themselves to business writing, in spite of the title. For the most part, The Elements of Business Writing is a valuable writing guide for just about all forms of writing. The book is strong on: knowing your audience; clarity; precision; and persuasion. When you think about those four elements, you're thinking about effective communication in general. This is something everyone--not just business people--can use in their daily lives.
Very useful.......2001-04-26
If you write letters, emails, business proposals or marketing plans, this book will be useful to you. It is very easy to follow. The book offers a number of suggestions for writing clearly and with style, and explains each point in detail. I used this book for a graduate level class, but it would be useful to anyone!
Books:
- How to Write It: A Complete Guide to Everything You'll Ever Write
- How to Write It: A Complete Guide to Everything You'll Ever Write
- Human Side of Organizations, The (9th Edition)
- Introduction to Communication Research
- Islamic Finance: The Regulatory Challenge (Wiley Finance)
- Legacies: Fiction, Poetry, Drama, Nonfiction
- Linking Emotional Intelligence And Performance At Work: Current Research Evidence With Individuals and Groups
- Listening: The Forgotten Skill: A Self-Teaching Guide (Wiley Self-Teaching Guides)
- Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die
- Managers as Facilitators: A Practical Guide to Getting the Work Done in a Changing Workplace
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Air Force
- Shadow Divers: The True Adventure of Two Americans Who Risked Everything to Solve One of the Last My
- Digital Economics: How Information Technology Has Transformed Business Thinking
- Global Trends And Global Governance
- Introduction to Management Science
- Out Of The Dust
- Internet Marketing: Strategy, Implementation and Practice
- Consulting Demons: Inside the Unscrupulous World of Global Corporate Consulting
- McGraw-Hill's Interest Amortization Tables, Third Edition
- Global Seagrass Research Methods
General
| Job Hunting & Careers
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
Value-Based Fees: How to Chargeand GetWhat You're Worth (The Ultimate Consultant Series)
Process Consulting: How to Launch, Implement, and Conclude Successful Consulting Projects (The Ultimate Consultant Series)
Million Dollar Consulting (TM) Toolkit: Step-By-Step Guidance, Checklists, Templates and Samples from "The Million Dollar Consultant"
How to Acquire Clients: Powerful Techniques for the Successful Practitioner
Million Dollar Consulting: The Professional's Guide to Growing a Practice
