A Beginner’s Guide to RFPs in Marketing

A request for proposal (RFP) in marketing is an efficient way of finding the expert help you need to grow your brand.

Without one, it’s easy to pick the wrong digital marketing agency partner and get stuck paying for services that don’t benefit your business.

In this article, you’ll learn what an RFP in marketing is and how to create one. We’ve also included a free RFP template to streamline your writing process.

What Is an RFP in Marketing?

A request for proposal (RFP) in marketing is a written document businesses can distribute to marketing agencies and freelancers to invite proposals for a project or ongoing relationship.

For example:

Companies can send these documents to specific agencies, online communities, or industry directories. Or, for maximum reach, they can publish requests online.

Recipients then respond with quotes, details of their suitability and experience, time frames, and contact information. This information helps the requesting company decide which vendor to use.

The alternative to an RFP is a less formal process where a project manager or team leader researches and identifies potential vendors before approaching them via phone or email.

Why Issue an RFP?

An RFP is a fast and easy way to find expert marketing support.

When potential agency partners come to you, it saves you time, helps you connect with valuable contacts, and enables you to launch effective campaigns faster.

Compared with a less formal approach, RFPs offer:

• More efficiency: A...