Communicating for a Cause

RFP Questions To Ask

1) How would you help us solve this problem?

 2) Who else have you helped?

3) What will it take to get us there? (time, budget, resources)

That's it. 

Don't get me wrong. I understand where a Request for Proposal comes from and the purpose it can serve. But oftentimes an organization believes it needs to know HOW to solve the problem when creating the RFP and subsequently compares costs against executing that solution. 

But it doesn't matter which car we drive if we're headed in the wrong direction. Don't feel the pressure to figure out the how—That's a big part of what you're paying for. 

Instead, tell them what needs to be fixed and look for a team that truly seeks to understand your needs, your culture and has the experience to back them up. Chances are high the proposed solution may not be what you expect but you'll be delighted with the results.  

 

Uncomfortable in the Quiet

This morning, I found myself stepping over dog toys on my way to the kitchen. I've been picking up toys for what feels like an eternity.

But today there's this crazy, empty kind of feeling as I tossed the toys in the basket. When our children were small it seemed like a constant whirlwind of activity that seamlessly blended from one stage to the next without a moment to catch my breath 

Constant feedings and sleepless nights

Chasing toddlers, trying to keep them out of harm's way

Filling out permission slips; packing lunches

Chauffering from one practice to another 

Late nights wondering if she'll be home in time for curfew 

Hoping he will make wise judgments when away at college 

At first, I was so grateful for the glimpses of quiet that were so few and far between I welcomed them with open arms. I didn't even notice the whirlwind of activity was gradually dying down. 

Until it had just stopped.

And now I only find myself picking up dog toys. 

This empty hole I find in my chest feels so uncomfortable. So peculiar. We got married at a very young age and had our first child immediatley. I went from taking care of my younger brother and sister at home to taking care of my own children. I've never known life without the constant hum of activity. 

And it feels foreign. 

People used to tell me "they grow up in a flash," and I remember thinking how absurd that sounded when the days felt so long. But the twist is the years are ridiculously short.