Happy New You: five easy ways to stick to your 2012 resolutions

With most of us now comfortably absorbed in a new year of work, it can be easy to put aside all the good intentions we had way back on New Year's Day.

But what about that promise we made to ourselves that 2012 would be the year we found a great new job?

To help you keep on track, we've put together five tips to help you take control of your career, achieve long term success and get 2012 off to a flying start.

1. Set your objectives

When you take control of your career, the first thing to consider is where you want to go next. Is 2012 the year you get that promotion? Or is time to take on a whole new role, in new surroundings, in a different industry?

Read our career management advice

2. Widen your skill set

Put them all together and your talents, knowledge, and experience are unique.

But if you feel like you don't have the specific skills to remain competitive and get you ahead in your career, now may be the time to update your skills by joining a course. Whether you learn online from home or you do your learning in a classroom, having the latest industry–specific skills on your CV can set you apart from other candidates.

Browse courses in 25 industry sectors now

3. Set your salary sights

If you included a pay rise on your list of New Year's resolutions, how you go about achieving it is an important consideration.

There's no denying that negotiating a pay rise is one of the more difficult tasks you'll undertake while in employment, so it's vital you do your homework and approach the subject with the necessary tact.

• Check average salaries for your role
• How to negotiate a pay rise

4. Dress for success

If you feel good, you'll be happier. And if you're happier, you'll be more productive.

The cheat's way to do this is by dressing well. It may not sound obvious, but expressing yourself through your clothes can instil confidence in yourself and your work (but make sure you stick to the company dress code).

And if you're dressing for an interview, it's important you make a good first impression. The easiest way to do this is to look neat, tidy and presentable.

How to prepare for an interview

5. Expand your network

One way you can makea real difference to your career prospects in 2012 is by putting yourself out there and creating relationships with the right people.

So many opportunities are found through contacts, and if you’re career is in a bit of a rut, your network – both personal and professional – can be an invaluable source of expertise and advice.

Whether you build your networks online, via sites like LinkedIn, or via a more traditional route, such as events and exhibitions, whichever way you meet people, try and seek out like-minded individuals and be prepared to speak about your role and responsibilities with your current or most recent employer.

Once you've hit it off, exchange contact details and start building what could be a very useful relationship.

Read all our jobseeking advice