how to market

I regard a proposal as kind of an intimate thing.  It comes after I've spoken with a client who is interested in what I have to offer, where we've discussed their individual needs, their goals, and one I've made sure that I can meet those needs and help with those goals.  I customize the proposal to the business.  I couldn't imagine sending one in before knowing who its for.

That's not to say that your marketing materials shouldn't be as customized as possible to the business.  Whatever you're sending should address that company's obvious needs with a product or service that you offer.  If it doesn't, it will surely go in the trash.

That's how I feel about it.  Does that help any?

Get yourself sold first...

Pricing on the first time around does you little. If it is a mass consumable... shoot the price high, they will give up on you and tell you what they are paying then make it conditional that they buy if you can meet or beat the price