10 phrases to delete right now from your tender

Chelsea Steele, Senior Tender Specialist (Brisbane)

In the world of tendering, your response needs to stand out for all the right reasons. Clear, specific details that demonstrate how you’ll meet clients’ needs and deliver results. But there’s an easy trap that many people fall into; using overused buzzwords and empty phrases they think sound good, but don’t actually carry any weight or meaning. As a senior tender specialist, I’ve come across a myriad of returnable schedules drafted with bold claims and grandiose phrases, but these can often weaken your bid rather than strengthen it, and worst-case scenario, can potentially increase your contract risk. Here are 10 phrases you should delete from your tender response right now, along with the reasons why.

1. ‘Best in the business’

This is one of the most tired and overused phrases in the tender world. Everyone claims to be the best in the business, but without concrete proof, it just sounds like empty self-promotion. Instead, highlight your specific expertise, past achievements, or metrics that demonstrate your strengths. It’s far more effective to show how your capabilities align with the client’s needs rather than making broad claims about being the ‘best.’

2. ‘World class’

Much like ‘best in the business,’ ‘world class’ is a phrase that rarely carries much weight anymore. What does ‘world class’ even mean in practical terms? For clients, it’s not about generic claims but about how you meet their specific requirements. Focus on the actual quality of your work. Mention processes, certifications, or case studies that demonstrate your ability to deliver top-tier results.

3. ‘Leading edge’

Another phrase that screams cliché is ‘leading edge.’ It sounds impressive, but it’s often used without any real substance behind it. The truth is the client is likely more interested in how your solutions are practical, relevant, and aligned with their goals. Instead of relying on buzzwords like ‘leading edge,’ describe the specific innovations or unique approaches that set your solution apart.

4. ‘State of the art’

While this may sound high-tech, it’s another vague phrase that can come across as meaningless if not backed up by specific details. If you’re using ‘state of the art’ to describe your technology or process, take a moment to actually explain why it’s state of the art. What makes it cutting-edge? How does it benefit the client? Be specific and name the technology if you can and avoid generic descriptors.

5. ‘We have decades of experience’

Yes, experience matters, but a vague claim like this doesn’t tell the client much. It’s more impressive to be specific about what kind of experience you have. Instead of just saying you have decades of experience, mention the exact number of years, highlight key projects, and showcase how that experience directly translates into the value you’ll bring to this specific tender.

6. ‘We go above and beyond’

‘Above and beyond’ is another phrase that sounds nice but is vague and unquantifiable. Everyone claims to go above and beyond, but the reality is that clients want to know exactly how you do it. Instead of this blanket statement, describe the specific actions or strategies you use to deliver exceptional results. Share examples where you’ve exceeded expectations and what the tangible outcomes were.

7. ‘We have a customer-first approach’

This one is very common and, frankly, feels like a given. Of course, you’re focused on the client’s needs - otherwise, why would you be submitting a tender? The phrase doesn’t add much value on its own. Instead, demonstrate how your approach is customer-centric by outlining your communication strategies, how you tailor solutions to client needs, or how you’ve resolved issues in the past.

8. ‘Turnkey solutions’

While ‘turnkey’ might sound impressive, it’s often used so much that it’s lost its meaning. Plus, clients are generally looking for specifics, not just a blanket ‘we can do everything’ statement. Rather than using this buzzword, explain the steps of your solution, how you manage projects, and what makes your service comprehensive and complete.

9. ‘We offer unparalleled service’

This phrase is a classic case of empty flattery. It sounds good, but it doesn’t convey any real information. What does ‘unparalleled service’ even mean? How does your service truly stand out from competitors? Clients want specifics: faster response times, dedicated support, personalised service - whatever it is, make it concrete so they can understand the actual value you’re offering.

10. ‘We are experts in our field/industry/sector’

While you may be an expert in many areas, claiming to be an expert in every aspect can sound exaggerated and unrealistic. It’s more impactful to highlight your core strengths and areas where you truly excel. Clients want to see you focus on what’s most relevant to the job at hand. By narrowing your scope, you show that you’re focused and ready to meet their exact needs.

Tenders are about making an impact with your words - so it’s important to choose them wisely. The phrases above may have been useful at one point, but they’ve become so overused that they no longer add value. Instead of relying on vague claims, focus on being specific, demonstrating your expertise, and proving your value with concrete examples.

By deleting these empty buzzwords and focusing on what really sets you apart, you’ll write a more compelling, authentic tender response that resonates with your potential client and shows them why you’re the right choice for the job.

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