Why Most RFPs Miss the Mark—and How to Avoid It

3 minutes

Why Most RFPs Miss the Mark—and How to Avoid It

Too many RFPs fail before they even start. Why? Because they’re rushed, vague, or overly complex. Suppliers receive unclear objectives, incomplete data, and unrealistic timelines—and the result is proposals that don’t solve your real challenges. So, how or where do you start to avoid this? A little preparation goes a long way. That’s where an RFP Pre-Flight Checklist comes in handy.

Common RFP Mistakes to Avoid

Before you launch your RFP, watch out for these pitfalls:

Unclear Objectives: Avoid generic goals like “improve efficiency”—be specific and measurable.

Incomplete Data: Missing spend details or workforce categories leads to inaccurate pricing.

Stakeholder Misalignment: Conflicting priorities slow down decision-making.

Overly Complex Requirements: Keep language clear and concise to encourage engagement.

Ignoring Compliance Early: Address compliance upfront to prevent costly delays.

No Room for Collaboration: Invite questions and foster dialogue for better outcomes.

Pro Tip: Use the list below as a quick audit before you launch your RFP—if any apply, fix them first.

Your RFP Pre-Flight Checklist: Set Yourself Up for Success

1. Define Your Objectives Clearly

Example: “Reduce contingent labor costs by 10% while improving compliance across EMEA.”
Pro Tip: Frame objectives as measurable outcomes.

2. Gather Accurate Workforce Data

Example: Share current spend by category and geographic footprint.
Pro Tip: Include historical trends for better forecasting.

3. Engage Stakeholders Early

Example: Align procurement, HR, and TA on evaluation criteria.
Pro Tip: Use a shared scorecard with weighted categories.

4. Outline Scope and Compliance Needs

Example: “Direct sourcing and payrolling included; IC compliance mandatory.”
Pro Tip: Call out tech integrations upfront.

5. Share Your Story

Example: “We’re a global energy company expanding into renewables.”
Pro Tip: Include strategic priorities like diversity goals.

6. Keep It Human

Example: Invite suppliers to a Q&A session before submission.
Pro Tip: Position the RFP as the start of a partnership.

Ready to Transform Your RFP Process?

Don’t let your next RFP fall into the “missed opportunity” pile. At Guidant Global, we help organizations design RFPs that attract the right partners and deliver measurable results. Looking for more expert insights? Check out "Top 25 RFI/RFP Essentials Every Buyer Should Know," or visit our RFP Online Toolkit for a variety of helpful resources.