WE all have different ideas of what we mean by success.

For some, it's landing that dream job.

For others, it's a set of career goals and aspirations waiting to be conquered.

The nature of success changes over the years but how you prepare for it does not.

With a few simple ideas, you can shape up for success.

Have a master plan. Behind any great venture is a well thought-out roadmap of where you want to be and what you want to be doing in your career.

Whether it's a year from now or five years from now, we recommend you put your plan into action and down on paper.

This will give you all the direction and structure you need. Add detail to the content with a list of what you need to do to accomplish each stage of your career journey. If you're looking for a job, we recommend you outline a six-month plan that details the role you want and what you need to achieve at each stage.

Stick to this outline with persistency and patience, and your master plan will be your springboard to success.

When you're developing yourself for greater things, you need to get to grips with where you are at today and just how good you are.

We suggest you make two lists: a list of all your achievements at school, college and university, and another list setting out your accomplishments in employment to date.

Include any voluntary or charitable work as this will give a better understanding of you, your skills and what you are capable of.

Always go into detail with content for both lists. Set out your strengths and everything that's positive about you. These details will be invaluable and they are precisely what you need to know when it comes to writing a solid covering letter or responding in style during an interview.

They will also be a reminder of the hard work you have done and can be a good source of inspiration and confidence.