Best Practices

I spent last week in Sacramento reading proposals from various organizations throughout California. I have done this before and always find it very beneficial. In fact I always walk away with tips and tricks to put in my tool box that I never would have come upon if left to my own devices. If the opportunity ever presents itself this is a “must-do” for any grant writer. One of my favorite parts of a week like this is the “Best Practice” session.

As the reviewers read, they document sections that stand out for clarity, logic, format, innovation, etc. Then at the best practice session we all share the “best practices” that stood out for us. Copies are made of these sections and all reviewers leave with a folder of “best practices” to consider using on their on documents at a later date. I should point out, the authors of the proposals are all there and consent to this wholeheartedly.

For you, I recommend assembling your own folder of best practices. Maybe you have seen a purpose statement, budget section, or assessment you thought really stood out. Don’t be shy about asking the author permission to use their format on one of your own proposals. They will probably be flattered. Of course if they say “no” you have to honor their wishes and come up with your own format.

Try to do this whenever the opportunity comes up. Eventually you will have your own folder of “best practices” to refer to when you write.

Unil next time, may all your requests be granted.

Brian