How to solicit feedback on items quoted from customers?

Question

We have quoted several projects for customers, and we have not gotten their business. It is pretty normal, you don't always get what you bid on. I understand that part.

But, since quoting is a lot of work on our part, and I would really like to get feedback about why they chose someone else, how do I ask to get the best results?
I really just want to know for my own future knowledge so I can improve. Is it price? Delivery? Presentation?

How would you ask them to solicit feedback?

Answer 1

Send them a formal thank you. For example:

Dear ________

Thank you for giving (insert co name) the opportunity to present you with a proposal for (insert item/service/job location if applicable).

While I understand that you have not chose (insert co. name) to complete your project, I hope that you will share with us your reasoning so that we may make improvements to better serve our clients needs in the future.

Thank you,

Answer 2

I would send them a letter or give them a phone call and tell them exactly what you wrote in your details. I would guess that the phone call would probably give you a better response though.