This briefing covers active market intelligence, regulatory guidelines, and tactical capture recommendations for federal and defense contractors pursuing opportunities in this procurement classification.
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR- The U.S. government constantly adjusts and grows as new needs arise. The government needs an army of contractors to support its massive consumption requirements. As a result, the benefits available through government contracts are abounding. Veteran contractors are perfect candidates to fill this growing landscape because of their previous employment by the government. They’ve also learned lessons, acquired tools, and made contacts from your military experience that could be valuable in the government contracting space.
The demand is real and possibilities are substantial, but not every step will be easy. If you’re a veteran, here are some secrets to help you become more successful.
1. Build Relationships
As with any venture in life, relationships are key to your success in establishing and maintaining government contracts, bidding on contracts and getting government contract financing. While the government is a huge consumer, there is a lot of competition to break into this space. As veterans, you have a leg up on your competition because the government sets aside procurement specifically for veteran-owned small businesses. But how do you know where to start or what’s available for veterans?
This is where relationships come into play. Relationships with leaders of businesses you’re interested in bidding for will give you an advantage in securing a contract later. You have to be willing to put yourself out there to grow you network.
For veterans, a good place to start building those connections is to know what events are going on at a local base near you and in the veteran community. These could include open houses at college campuses or companies, events at your local Veteran Business Outreach Center or local contracting incubators like Eastern Foundry.
Get yourself out there, get in the mix, and make connections that will enable you to win contracts. This is not an industry you should enter alone.
Building relationships with government contract financing partners at an early stage can also be helpful.
Read more: 4 Secrets to Become a Successful Veteran Government Contractor
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