5 tips to get proposals signed and returned faster

As a sales professional, you strive for the euphoria of closing a deal, especially when it comes to a special customer. Think of that one big customer or that prospect from a totally new market. But what do you do if you can't visit in person or if the signing process takes too long? Here are five valuable tips to ensure that your proposals are returned signed faster.

Tip 1: Digital signing

A crucial step in speeding up the signing process is to switch to digital signing. After you've spoken to the right people and sent the quote to key decision-makers, make the process simple by enabling digital signatures. The signer receives a request by e-mail and can sign regardless of time, place, and device. This means that the prospect only needs an internet connection, which increases the chances of the signature being done quickly.

Tip 2: Set a tight deadline

Setting a clear and tight deadline is essential without being intrusive. Make clear agreements with the prospect about:

• The expected return date of the signed contract.
• Your availability for further questions.
• Proactively reach out if the signature is delayed.

With a digital signature, you can easily set a reminder schedule, such as a reminder three days after sending, two days before the deadline, and on the last day itself. This will prevent you from being late or forgetting to contact you. On the day of the deadline, you can also call the prospect again to discuss any doubts or obstacles.

Tip 3: Submit All Necessary Documents in One Go

Keep the signing process quick and simple by delivering all the necessary documents in one go. Avoid sending quotes through the mail, as this is time-consuming. Many organizations operate digitally, which eliminates reliance on postal services. Make sure that all documents are in one email to avoid extra actions for the prospect. Even better is to use digital signatures, so that the prospect only has to click to sign. Attach all the necessary documents so that the prospect has everything they need to sign the quote.

Tip 4: Determine which people are authorised to sign

Even with the best of intentions, a signing can be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness. The wet signature does not offer any flexibility. With digital signatures, you can authorize another authorized signatory to sign, without having to create a new document. Use the permission functionality to give the recipient the option to forward the signature to another authorized signatory within the organization. The identity of the authorised signatory is confirmed via e-mail address and multi-factor authentication such as SMS, iDIN or DigiD. This way you can be sure that only the right person signs.

Tip 5: Timing

Timing plays a crucial role in the sales process. By switching quickly, communicating clearly and signing smoothly, you make it easier for the customer to agree. However, timing is often overlooked. During the first conversations with a prospect, I always try to find out what important actions and events are planned, both now and in the coming quarter. This will help determine the right timing.

Consider the following factors:

• Corporate events.
• Industry-related events.
• Industry-related news.

In addition, it is important to keep the contact warm after sending the assignment. For example, know when a busy period for the prospect is approaching and offer to help reduce the workload. This builds trust. A listening ear or extra information at the right time can make the difference between a lost deal and a won deal.

With these tips, you can ensure that the speed and efficiency of the signing process is guaranteed, so that you get deals signed back faster and your business continues to grow.