In this economy, a long job search effort is unfortunately more the norm than the exception. It can be very defeating and job searchers can easily run out of ideas of what to do next. Here are a couple of articles that may help:

1. Can’t find a job – 8 side gigs that actually make you money
2. 6 reasons they didn’t call you back

And below is a summary of their practical advice.

• Network, network, network. Both articles talk about this. Even if you have talked to everyone you know. Go back, be concrete with what you need help on, and follow up. Nurture your relationships over time and I would also add avoid networking faux pas. Also, try to expand your network by going to new events and meeting new people.
• Don’t take silence personally and have realistic expectations.  As the first article highlights, many reasons that companies don’t call back have nothing to do with you. E.g. the job disappeared due to budget cuts or they’re swamped.
• Make it easy for company to know why you are good fit. Do all the work in your resume and interviews to tell them why you’re the best fit? No one at the company has the time to do this for you. Also, follow directions. If they want past work samples, do it. If they want you to do math problems, do it. It’s their job-opening. They can do pretty much anything as long as it’s legal. Don’t complain as this will immediately disqualify you in a tough market. Lastly, follow up in a week if you don’t hear from them. Just don’t be a pest.
• Expand search criteria. To things like part-time or contract work. Being more flexible and creative can help you find more opportunities.
• Have a life at the same time. Job search is an emotional roller coaster and can test those emotions. Still go out and have fun. Allow yourself breaks or even plan trips every few months to give your mind and emotions a break.
• Get help. Get a friend to look at your resume or do mock interviews and/or hire a career coach that can give you a professional perspective. But remember, most of the work depends on your effort. Your friends or a coach can only be guides. You cannot expect them to do the work for you. It doesn’t work this way.

Ultimately, hang in there. A job is out there for you. You just have to hang on and do the best you can. Remember “if there is no struggle, there is no progress.”