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1 proposal mistake cost me a $10K

1 proposal mistake but cost me a $10K project

(And how it made my close rate 3x higher)

I once lost a $10K project, not because of my design work, but because of how I explained it.

My proposal had everything: deliverables, timelines, tools.
But it missed one thing clarity on results.

The client didn’t care how many screens I will design.
They cared about how those screens would help users convert better.

Here’s what changed everything:

  • Now I add this part to every proposal:
    “Here’s how this project will improve your product’s user experience and help your business grow.”
  • I connect every deliverable to a measurable outcome.
  • I focus less on what I’ll make, more on what they’ll gain.

Since then, my close rate has grown 3x.

Most freelancers lose deals not for lack of skill but for lack of clarity.
Make your proposal about their results, not your process.

Alhamdulillah, using the same method we just executed another deals today 🙌

posted to Icon for group Freelancers
Freelancers
on November 10, 2025
  1. 1

    Great insight, Mahmudul!
    Most freelancers forget that clients buy results, not deliverables.
    I like how you framed proposals around outcomes — that shift alone can change everything.

  2. 1

    Outcome-based theory

  3. 1

    That’s a solid insight and a great reminder that clients buy outcomes, not tasks. Love how you turned a setback into a system that actually tripled your success rate. Clarity really is the difference between a good proposal and a winning one. Congrats on the new deal too. MashAllah, that’s progress well-earned 🙌

    1. 1

      Great to hear that. Exactly client is looking for outcome.

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