MANY people decide the new year is an opportunity to take stock and start afresh, often with regards to their career.

A recent poll by recruitment website monster.co.uk found 70 per cent of people questioned planned to star job hunting come the new year.

The main reason workers strive for promotions or turn their attention to other possible career paths is largely due to an unsatisfactory balance between work and play and or a salary increase, according to a study by the research and consulting organisation YouGov.

Whether it is a matter of career progression or a total overhaul of profession, it is important to make yourself as attractive as possible for potential employers.

Firstly, it is important you make sure the decision for a career change or chance to secure a promotion with your current company is the right route for you.

Consider your career ambitions in the longer term and what direction to move in to get there by listing your strengths and weaknesses to help you best assess what you have to offer.

Make it your priority to spend time networking, especially if you are looking for a promotion - if you're not visible in your company or industry you will find it hard to get promoted. It will also improve your confidence and people skills.

Spend some time review your progress and it may be an idea to keep a journal jotting down contacts, ideas and interesting websites to help you in the future.

First impressions are critical and made in the initial few minutes of meeting, so present yourself well, dressing and acting for the role you want, not the role you are.

Swot up on the company, making sure you are aware of competitors and any challenges in the foreseeable future.

Be vigilant and ready to spot and respond to opportunities, so keeping your CV simple and up-to-date is a must.

A well-presented CV is still of paramount importance in the jobseeking process, according to a survey of employers by credit industry recruitment website jobsincredit.com It found simple yet informative CVs impressed the best, so steer clear of attaching passport photographs and funky typefaces, and poorly proof-read submissions are to be avoided at all times.