Writing a Great Quote

Creating a thorough and professional quote is a critical step in every project. Well-crafted quotes help ensure clarity, set expectations, and improve the overall client experience.

Why is sending a great quote important?

A high-quality quote can:

• Increase lead-to-client conversion rates

• Reduce misunderstandings about project scope

• Minimize support issues such as scope creep

• Build client trust and satisfaction

• Lead to more successful project completions

Steps to create an effective quote

1. Understand the client’s scope and budget

Before sending a quote, carefully review the client’s request and confirm your understanding of their budget and expectations.

2. Use a clear and descriptive title

• Keep the title brief and focused on the key project tasks.

• Avoid long titles, as they may be truncated in the dashboard.

• Examples:

  • "Theme Updates and Mega-Menu Fix"

  • "Site Speed Optimization"

  • "On-Page SEO Optimization"

3. Structure the body of your quote

Break your quote into three main sections:

a) Deliverables

Provide a high-level overview of what the client will receive at the end of the project (1–3 sentences).
Examples:

• Custom updates to theme and mega-menu

• Speed optimization for both desktop and mobile devices

• On-page SEO optimization for six pages

b) Process

Outline the steps you will take to achieve the deliverable. Be thorough, including all essential tasks and QA.
Example: For a speed optimization project:

• Implement lazy loading on images where possible

• Optimize image size, compression, and quality

• Audit installed apps for performance

• Optimize CSS delivery

• Conduct Quality Assurance (QA)

c) Additional Notes

Define project scope, clarify responsibilities, and outline communication expectations. Include:

• Out-of-scope items

• Metrics for success (e.g., Lighthouse or GTMetrix)

• Client-provided deliverables

• Additional charges for work outside the original scope

• Communication cadence and availability

Examples:

• Tasks outside the quote will incur additional charges

• Speed optimization improvements based on agreed-upon reports only

• Client-provided keyword list only; off-page SEO is not included

We provide a template in your dashboard:

4. Select the project type

• Project: One-off project with funds held in escrow

• Repeat: Ongoing weekly or monthly retainer

• Bill: One-time payment for completed work (rare)

5. Set your pricing

• Use the quote calculator as a guide, starting with $90/hour as a baseline.

• Avoid underquoting; accurately estimate hours required to prevent frustration or reduced motivation.

• Quoting your true worth ensures you are compensated fairly and avoids potential support issues.

6. Choose a realistic deadline

• Set achievable deadlines to maintain trust and prevent issues.

• Avoid overly optimistic timelines; underpromise and over-deliver to maintain reliability.

Key Tips for Successful Quotes

• Take time to write a detailed, clear quote; it pays off in client trust and satisfaction.

• Include all steps, QA, and scope details to minimize miscommunication.

• Focus on clarity, transparency, and setting realistic expectations.

• Avoid including pricing discussion in early client communications if not required.