The year 2012 is coming to a close, and as we look ahead to the new year, it’s time to reflect on all of our knowledge. 2012 was no apocalypse, despite what the ancient Mayans claimed. In fact, it was a year full of momentous events and awe-inspiring people. People striving for their dreams were highly visible in 2012, from the Summer Olympics to the presidential election.

No matter your personal speed or career goals, your professional life is significant. Whether you’re aiming for a major promotion or seeking your ideal employment, career fulfillment should be a part of your 2013 resolution.

Here are some excellent career quotes from the people who made 2012 so memorable. These are all valuable lessons you can take to heart when trying to further your career or find the perfect job in 2013:

You must first describe what you already have going for you as an entrepreneur before daydreaming about the future or making plans – in the same way, that entrepreneurs do.

Reid Hoffman, LinkedIn co-founder

No matter your goals, this advice is essential. Whether you want to advance in your current role or score a great new job, these tips will help you get there. Before beginning your journey to success, sit down and think about what makes you unique. What strengths do you have that others don’t?

You could be a fantastic communicator, but your outdated paper resume isn’t the greatest way to showcase your talents. Instead, you may want to consider filming a video resume to complement your standard CV and display these superior communication abilities.

Understand where your passions and abilities truly lie so you can make the most of your talents before making grand plans or drafting a life plan.

You don’t need an extensive plan set in stone. More likely than not, your plans will shift one hundred times before you even turn thirty.

Michael Bloomberg

Just because you lack experience in an area doesn’t mean you shouldn’t explore it, as Michael Bloomberg told the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s graduating class.

Many job seekers feel trapped in their chosen profession, believing that once they’ve started down a certain career path, they’ll be unable to move on. This is not correct! If you are passionate enough and have the skills necessary, you may change tracks at any stage in your profession.

Trying something new on the job or willingly taking extra responsibilities broadens your skill set and looks great to potential employers. Skills are only developed through experience, so if you don’t put in the effort, you’ll never improve. And yes, sometimes you will fall flat on your face–but that’s how we learn!

If you don’t take any risks, you’re almost certainly destined to fail in today’s rapidly-changing world.

Mark Zuckerberg

Risk-taking must always be a key component of your career. You don’t want to become complacent, but you also don’t want to ignore fresh possibilities.

Get those creative juices flowing for your job search by using social media, personal websites, video resumes, or infographic resumes. Without a little risk, there’s no chance of reward in your career. So if you have a brilliant new idea, don’t be scared to suggest it–even if it doesn’t work out in the end.

I am a big believer in visualization. I run through my races mentally so that I feel even more prepared.

Allyson Felix, London Olympic athlete in women’s running

When it comes to preparing for your interview, whether it’s in-person or via online video, the most effective preparation is mental. Make careful to study the firm as much as possible.

Find out what problems the firm and industry are facing, as well as how the business is being covered in the media. Use social media platforms to connect with former and current employees in order to learn more about the type of employee that would be best suited for the organization.

Then, to practice and sound your best, rope in family and friends for mock interviews. Over-preparing is not a thing when it comes to nailing an important interview.

When you’ve worked hard and done well, and come through that opportunity doorway, you don’t slam it shut behind you. “You should always help others achieve their goals, just like people helped you when you were struggling.

-Michelle Obama, during a speech at the Democratic National Convention.

Once you reach your target, don’t grow content with your current situation. Whether you achieved a raise, more work, or a perfect role, keep striving onward. Your professional development doesn’t pause just because you already accomplished your original goals.

Not only are you benefiting yourself, but you’re also able to help others. Never shy away from an opportunity to aid someone else. You never know where your next coffee chat could lead. Today’s informational coffee date could turn into a job-landing contact tomorrow.

Use the knowledge gained by those who have accomplished great things in 2012 to help you achieve your own objectives and goals in 2013.

What are some career lessons you may learn from the inspiring quotations of 2012? Leave a remark below!

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