1. Can we win?
Look beyond capability. Ask whether you have a credible differentiator, the right evidence and a relationship or route to insight that gives you a genuine position. If everyone can say the same thing, the opportunity is likely to be decided on price.
2. Can we deliver?
Name the delivery assumptions now: capacity, partners, mobilisation, geography, approvals and operational risk. If the proposal team cannot explain the delivery shape, the writing will become a promise the business cannot comfortably keep.
3. Is it worth the cost?
Estimate the pursuit cost honestly, including scarce subject-matter time and the cost of saying no to something else. A good opportunity with a bad pursuit model is still a bad decision.
A no-bid is not a loss. It is capacity returned to the opportunities where your evidence can do its best work.