The short answerA capability statement is a short document, often one or two pages, that tells a buyer who you are, what you do, the work you have done and why they can trust you. Include your legal name and ABN, services, key experience with named projects, capacity, certifications and insurances, key people and contact details.
A one page structure
- Company name, ABN, location and contact
- What you do, in one sentence
- Core services
- Three to five past projects with client, scope, value and year
- Capacity: staff, equipment, coverage area
- Certifications, licences and insurances
- Key people
- Why choose you, backed by facts
Tips
- Write a version for each type of buyer you target.
- Use numbers and named projects, with permission from clients.
- Keep it current: update insurances and projects every quarter.
Mistakes to avoid
- Vague claims with no projects or numbers
- Out of date insurances or certificates
- Naming clients without permission
- Long paragraphs instead of scannable sections
- No clear contact details
Where capability statements are used
- Supplier registrations and prequalification
- Meetings with buyers and head contractors
- Expressions of interest
- Industry capability directories
What to leave out
- Long company history before the reader knows what you do.
- Generic claims such as quality focused or customer centric with nothing to back them.
- Projects you cannot name a referee for.
- Certifications that have lapsed or are still in progress, unless you say so plainly.
- Stock photos. Real photos of your crew, plant and finished work are more believable.
Keeping it current
Review your capability statement every quarter. Update the project list, insurance details, accreditations and contact details. Keep one master version and make short tailored copies for each sector or buyer, rather than editing the master each time.
Questions
How long should a capability statement be?
Usually one or two pages, unless the buyer asks for more.
Is a capability statement the same as a tender response?
No. It is a general introduction. A tender response answers one buyer's specific request.
Should I include prices in a capability statement?
Usually no. Keep pricing for specific quotes and tenders.
How long should a capability statement be?
Short enough to read in a few minutes. Two to four pages is common for small and medium businesses. If a tender sets a page limit, that limit wins.
Is a capability statement the same as a tender response?
No. A capability statement is a general overview of your business. A tender response answers one buyer's questions for one contract.