New research reveals the human drivers of happiness in proposal teams – and how leaders can unlock them.
Purpose, trust, and connection drive proposal performance
The challenge
Proposal writing is high-pressure work. While many professionals find deep meaning in their roles, happiness isn't guaranteed. The 2025 Proposal Happiness Index reveals a profession that's committed and purposeful – but often under-recognised and overstretched. The challenge? Creating environments where proposal professionals can thrive, not just survive.
The research shows that happiness in proposal teams isn't about perks or pay. It's about people. The top drivers of joy include:
Overcoming the challenge
Teamwork and camaraderie – Supportive colleagues and shared wins build morale.
Recognition and being valued – Feeling seen by leadership fuels motivation.
Teamwork and camaraderie – Supportive colleagues and shared wins build morale.
Recognition and being valued – Feeling seen by leadership fuels motivation.
How we can help
At Strategic Proposals, we help organisations build happier, higher-performing proposal teams through:
Tailored proposal training that builds empathy and capability
Leadership coaching to foster trust and recognition
Organisational design that supports collaboration and wellbeing
Want to know what really drives happiness in proposal teams? Read the full paper here.
If you'd like to run an internal Proposal Happiness Index for your team, we'd love to help. Contact us for a consultation session with one of our experts on 0800 009 6800, email us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , or complete our contact form.
Don't forget to check out our other related blogs in the resources section of our website.
To find out more about the key skills and tools necessary to develop powerful, compelling proposals contact our experts on 0800 009 6800 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
