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A new year is coming, and with it a certain amount of hope. Many of us look forward to a new year as a fresh beginning. A way to make a new start that results in a better situation in life and in finances. One way that you can improve your quality of life, as well as your finances, is to work to improve your job prospects for the new year.

According Money magazine, 2013 will offer the best chance for you to get a new job — or a raise — since 2007. That means that next year could be a good one for you, as long as you are poised to take advantage of the potential opportunities provided for the climate.

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Brush Up on Your Skills

Look at your skills. What do you have to offer an employer? Do you have marketable skills that others value? Evaluate your current skills, and see where you can brush up. Is there a certification that you can achieve in order to make yourself more desirable? Could you finish a degree that would qualify you for a new job, promotion, or raise?

It's not just about developing hard skills that are easily recognized, either. You should also make an effort to develop your soft skills. More and more, employers value someone who can communicate well in writing and in speech. Additionally, good leadership qualities and problem solving skills can go a long way. If it is clear that you are adding something to the company, you are more likely to be valued. Or hired on at a new company that values what you can bring to the table.

Find ways to build upon what you already know, and show that you are capable and that you add value. Brush up on all your skills so that you are ready to take things to the next level. Often, that's all it takes to get a better job that you like more than your current position, or land the raise you have been looking for.

Prepare Your Job Hunt Materials

Don't go into the new year unprepared. Now is a good time to prepare your job hunt materials. Even if you want to try for a promotion or a raise at your current work, it doesn't hurt to update your resume, cover letter, and network contacts. If you don't get what you had hoped for from your current employer, being ready for the job hunt can go a long way toward helping you land a new position in 2013.

If you are refreshing your networking contacts, make sure that you reach out now, and re-establish those old ties before you decide to look for work. You want to have a solid relationship in place before you start calling for help. And remember to return the favor if you can. Get everything up to date, and maybe even think about creating an online resume that's easy for others to find. Don't forget to clean up your social media profiles and make an effort to appear attractive to employers through the Internet. More and more, that matters.

This could be the year that you turn your career around. Prepare now to make those changes in 2013.

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