Among the most common New Year’s resolutions, besides losing weight, getting into shape and spending less money is finding a new job. This is true for both employed as well as those currently unemployed. In fact, according to a survey of 2,250 U.S. adults conducted by Glassdoor, one in three employees plan to look for a new job in 2013.

As we all know, while important, it takes more than resolve to achieve your goals; it takes a plan. The following are the first three steps you should be taking toward achieving your career resolution:

Step 1: Set Your Sights on a Target.

It’s important to begin with the end in mind. Without a destination it’s difficult to map a route. The same is true in a career transition. In what has become a very competitive job market it’s essential to first have a goal in mind and then create a compelling, consistent communication strategy and marketing message that conveys your personal brand and value proposition as it relates to that goal.

Step 2: Get Your Resume In Order.

With your goal in mind, update your resume. Remember resumes need to be targeted towards the position you’re seeking. It should include a scintillating marketing statement, your outstanding business achievements (quantified when possible), of course your career history in reverse chronological order and your education.

Step 3: Update Your LinkedIn Profile.

LinkedIn continues to dominate as one of the most effective tools in a career transition. Having a captivating LinkedIn profile can mean the difference between a fast, efficient job search or a long, drawn out campaign. Not only do recruiters and hiring managers mine for candidates on LinkedIn, it’s the most useful tool to target companies in which you have an interest and to improve your network exponentially.

As Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu said, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Here are three steps that will get you started on your new path and a new position that could be a thousand times better than your last. But, if you really want to fast track your journey, hiring an expert in career transition could be the best and most important step you take.

~Linda