As we have just had the MT Awards, it is worth looking at how to win. Last week, there were just 14 winners. To get onto that list may sound difficult but it is possible. And just entering can help your business.

What you need to do is to decide what you want to achieve during the year. Then, identify what needs to be done, and then do it. You should also decide in advance how you are going to measure success and ensure that it is a real assessment of what has been achieved rather than a subjective view.

If you can’t think of anything that you have achieved during the year, then you may well be heading for trouble.

Often the best entries are those that keep it simple and have clear independent evidence of success.

Small companies stand just as much of a chance of winning than large companies
Why do some companies fail to win? The obvious reason is that a rival was better. Sometimes it is because the project they have entered is widely used. Many people this year said they introduced double deck trailers for example.

Entrants also need to explain why they deserve an Award.
You can see the full information on the Awards at our dedicated web site. And if you did not win or enter this year, there is always 2008.