How to Negotiate Fair Terms After Winning a Tender

Post-tender negotiation isn’t about being difficult — it’s about being fair, informed, and assertive. You’ve been selected because of your value and capability. That doesn’t mean you have to say yes to everything that follows.


🧠 Come to the Table Prepared

Before the negotiation meeting or call:

  • Re-read your submitted bid — know exactly what you offered
  • Check the contract schedule and specification for changes
  • Prepare questions about anything vague, missing, or assumed

This shows professionalism and signals that you’re not a soft target.


⚖️ What Fair Negotiation Looks Like

  • You clarify scope — not expand it without funding
  • You discuss deliverables — not absorb hidden costs
  • You agree timelines — not accept unrealistic mobilisation

It’s okay to push back. In fact, it’s expected.


📌 Document Everything

Keep written records of:

  • What was agreed verbally
  • Clarifications requested and responses received
  • Any risks you raised or concessions made

This protects you if expectations later shift — and gives you leverage in implementation.


💡 Final Thought

You don’t need to say yes to everything just to keep the win. Negotiate like a professional — and protect the viability of the contract you worked hard to win.


    Written by Mike Harrison, Founder of Impact Guru Ltd — specialists in bid writing, strategy and developing specialist tools to support social care providers to prioritise workflow, win and retain more contracts.

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