FROM ONE ARTIST TO ANOTHER: “THAT’S A COOL RFQ … HOW DO I APPLY?”

When I am doom-scrolling through Instagram or my emails, I come across many Requests For Qualifications (RFQ). I click a link or two, do some baseline research to see what the ask is, what the project is and how I might fit. Then, I begin the application and submission process.

It sounds simple. But, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Not if you take full advantage and position yourself for success.

Here’s a peek into my process and the questions I frequently ask myself before I submit.

At its most basic, a Request For Qualifications (RFQ) is an open opportunity for you to submit examples of previous work you’ve done to be considered for a new art opportunity. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate that you are qualified to complete that project.

You are also asked to offer information about your experience, training, approach and insights that help you demonstrate why you’d be a qualified or an interesting candidate for the opportunity being presented.

An RFQ presents you with a chance to introduce yourself as a professional creative, tout your unique work and style, and showcase your capabilities without having to produce new work just to be considered.

DO YOU HAVE AN EXAMPLE?

For a real example, check out The Pearl RFQ. Open right now (Deadline 9/1/24), this is a great opportunity to submit after reading this article and setting yourself up for a successful submission!

WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I BE ASKING MYSELF?

Before even THINKING of responding to an RFQ, ask yourself:

Have I completed a project like this before? DID I ENJOY IT?
Does the budget they’ve provided seem reasonable/appropriate?
Would I need to bring on additional help to do this project?
Will I make enough money on this project if I am selected?
What is the ultimate goal of the project? How do I align?
How can my perspective, craft or experience be additive to this project?

Please pay attention to that last question. Whether you have direct experience with a project similar to the RFQ opportunity or not, you may be the right person because of who you are or how you work.

Importantly, be honest with yourself. We all need work and money, but – after exploring the questions above – will you be excited to get this project? If so, it’s time to go after it.

Depending on the RFQ needs and what the submission requires, you may need to alter your pre-prepared materials. But, they sure help. I keep the items below in a folder on my Google Drive, so they are ready for me when I need them for an RFQ:

Artist Bio: I have several biographical descriptions of my career at various word counts. I never know what the max word count will be, so I prefer to be ready. Check out the different variations HERE.
Portfolio: In an earlier Biscuit article (linked HERE), I gave some tips for developing your portfolio. I have different portfolios and a collection of photographs of various projects that I can use as relevant and current examples of previous work and experience.
Testimonials: These are short letters or paragraphs from artists and clients I’ve worked with who can share thoughts on how I approach my work and about my work ethic. You may not be able to use all of it, but if there are opportunities to answer questions in text boxes, you can always supplement what you write with an attributed testimonial.

Part of sharing your creative prowess with reviewers of RFQs is having great photographs of your previous works. These images need to be clear and as high quality as possible (without being hard to download). Be prepared to add relevant information like:

Size and scale in sq. ft.
Where the piece is located
Who the project was for/who hired you
Surface type (canvas, brick walls, concrete, printed, etc.)
Length of time it took you to create it

Here is an example:

Again, just because you haven’t completed this specific type of project does not mean you cannot do it. Show what you have and do not be afraid to describe how you anticipate tackling this new surface/project with knowledge you gained from previous projects.

Yes. They sure are. But, don’t be intimidated. Make them work for you!

You will have several opportunities to dive into your process, experience and capabilities as a creative through essay questions. Don’t wait until the last-minute rush though.

Read the questions carefully. Think about what information they want from you. And then, think about how you can give that to them while sharing information you want to share.

Talk about what sets you apart and why YOU are the creative for this project. Whether it be your style, connection to the community, or your story. Make the case for yourself to be a finalist.

Another question you might run into is WHY you are interested in this project. Feel free to share anecdotes, get a little personal, but get to the point. What do you want people to know about you when they read your answer? What is the main point you want to get across? Most questions need to be answered in less than 500 words, so get there!

Grammar. Spelling. Punctuation. Spelling. Grammar. Punctuation. They can make or break you. After all, you want to show the reviewers that you are the ideal candidate to take on a complicated project. You are a reflection of their investment – so represent yourself and the client well.

Be sure to read over your work and clarify your sentences. Read it out loud. Use proper punctuation. Use free tools like Grammarly and word counters. Run it through ChatGPT.com for readability. But, do not ask ChatGPT to write it for you.

The correct answer is: After at least one person you trust (other than you) has read it.
Ask someone you trust to look at the photos you’re submitting and carefully read your answers. Don’t ask your biggest fan. Ask the person who has shown they’re not afraid to tell you the truth. They don’t have to be an art expert. Outside perspectives help … and can make all the difference.

Once you’ve done this, you should be ready to roll.

I’ve simplified the process for the sake of this story, but everything above comes from my experience working on one RFQ after another. It’s what works for me.

And, I believe with a little practice, commitment and hard work, you’ll figure out your process, too, for responding to and submitting successful RFQs.

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