Georgia Chattahoochee Chapter of the APMP

Kate Keib
Consultant/Self Employed
Mabletown, Georgia

APMP Question.
How long have you been a proposal manager/specialist/writer?

Kate:  I started down this path last July by taking a class offered by OST.

Global Solutions.  My first job came right after that.

APMP Question.
How did you become involved
with proposals?

Kate:  It was a natural way to extend my skills as a journalist, marketer and writer.

APMP Question.
Do you work in a “corporate office” or “home office” environment?  

What do you like best about working in your current environment?  

What do you like least?

Kate:  I currently work full time in marketing in the corporate arena. 

My proposal work is down in my home office.

As far as proposals, I love working from home.  I can accomplish so much.

And don’t waste time commuting!

It can be isolating to work at home.  I need to take a walk outside to.

Avoid feeling pent up all day.

APMP Question.
What do you feel is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Kate:  Learning a new “language” with each proposal.  I am new to government terms, and I am working hard to keep them straight.

APMP Question.
What shortcuts or helpful best practices about working with proposal teams could you share?

Kate:  I keep notes on everything – typed are best.

I always evaluate each project when I finish and review with my “bosses”.

I keep my notes/lessons-learned  from my last project handy.

APMP Question.
When did you join APMP?

Kate:  Just last month, January 2010.

APMP Question.
What is your method for successfully working with your proposal teams?

Kate:  Communicate.  Respect each person’s method through which they do that best—be it email or phone.

APMP Question.
Which type of proposals do you do most? Commercial or government?

Kate:  Government