You + AI = unstoppable (if you do it right)
Bid pros who use AI well will go faster. Bid pros who use it well and think critically will win more.
As AI grows, some may question whether human expertise is still necessary. Rather than resisting, bid pros can be the leaders who guide others to use AI effectively while safeguarding strategic thinking, quality and trust.
AI is a tool, not a replacement
Whether you're a consultant or part of an internal team, you're likely seeing more interest in AI tools, along with some unrealistic expectations.
AI can draft content, analyse data, and generate structure. What it can't do is:
Understand context, nuance, and organisational politics
Build a persuasive case based on discriminators and differentiators
Align bids with unstated client drivers or stakeholder dynamics.
When someone suggests “just using AI” to speed things up, remind them that:
Drafts are just that - drafts. They need human insight to make them land.
AI can't be held accountable for errors, missed opportunities, or poor engagement.
Without oversight, AI-generated content can introduce factual inaccuracies, bias, or compliance risks.
Where AI helps and where it falls short
Use this framework to have better conversations about AI’s role in bidding:
| AI can help with | Human expertise is essential for |
|---|---|
| Summarising information | Understanding complex client needs |
| Drafting initial wording | Crafting persuasive, tailored messaging |
| Formatting & structuring | Storytelling, strategy, and logic |
| Analysing trends | Applying insights with context |
It’s not about gatekeeping AI. It’s about drawing a line between automation and judgment.
Protecting your content
Whether you’re using Copilot, ChatGPT, or something else - security and governance matter.
Here’s what you should be doing:
Check data permissions - make sure nothing sensitive is stored or shared outside approved systems.
Use enterprise settings - limit access to internal, secure environments.
Avoid free-for-alls - while free versions have their use, they may apply your inputs for training. Stick to paid or enterprise versions when dealing with confidential material.
Educate your team (and your stakeholders) - not everything should go into a chatbot.
✅ If your organisation or client wants to use AI in bids, guide them toward secure platforms and clear boundaries. You’ll build trust and protect everyone’s reputation along the way.
Make the case for human value
When someone sees AI as a cost-cutting shortcut, explain the trade-offs:
AI doesn’t manage client relationships
It doesn’t sense tone or timing in live conversations
It doesn’t take responsibility when something lands flat.
📌 Example response to clients:
"AI is great for efficiency, although bids are more than pretty words. They need context, credibility, and a story that resonates. AI can support that process while human expertise shapes the outcome".
Helping your organisation (or your clients) use AI effectively
Whether you’re in-house or consulting, this is your moment to lead.
Ways you can guide responsible AI adoption:
Offer AI-assisted services: Let AI handle repetitive tasks while you focus on refinement and strategy.
Provide content reviews: Check and enhance AI-generated material before it goes out the door.
Develop usage policies: Set boundaries for what’s okay, what’s not, and who’s responsible.
Educate your teams: Help others understand AI’s risks, limits, and strengths.
Lead the charge
In its 2025 RFP Trends & Benchmarks Report, Loopio highlights its increasing role in proposal management. According to the report, 68% of proposal teams now use AI, doubling last year's figure, and 70% use it at least weekly.
To reinforce your value and credibility:
Clearly state your AI stance on your website - whether you use it, how you use it, and your approach to balancing AI with human expertise. For example:
"AI is a powerful tool when used responsibly. At [Your Company], we use it to speed things up while everything we deliver is refined, strategic, and human-led."
Position yourself as someone who makes AI work smarter rather than someone who’s being replaced by it.
Stay ahead of AI trends and educate through thought leadership content, webinars, or workshops on how to use AI responsibly.
Final thoughts
AI is here to stay, yet the real differentiator is still you.
By owning your position, setting boundaries, and leading the conversation, you’ll stay trusted and indispensable no matter where the tech takes us next.
