ACIPD poll of more than 3,000 employees found that more than a third of those questioned would consider changing jobs in the next year.

This recession is unlikely to be different to previous downturns in that, as soon as workers feel confident enough to stick their toes back into the job market, all their pentup frustration at having to stay where they were during the recession will lead to a massive game of musical chairs.

So how should you position yourself for the best results in 2010?

Corinne Mills is the author of You’re Hired! How to write a brilliant CV.

Her top tips include:

  • Learn the art of self-promotion. Feel comfortable talking about your achievements and portray yourself as someone who is an asset to their organisation. If you are lacking confidence in your own abilities then why should anyone else have confidence in you.
  • Be proactive. If you wait for the perfect opportunity to land in your lap you will wait for ever. So speak to your manager and HR department about career possibilities, invest in training yourself if necessary, organise your own relevant work experience, ring up potential employers etc. You have to make it happen – no-one else is going to do it for you!
  • Cultivate your networks. Talk to business and social contacts, family and friends. Research shows that networking significantly enhances the likelihood of career success. Nobody will give you a job just because they know you, but your contacts can offer valuable advice, feedback and even potential opportunities.