Well I've been filling out application forms on the internet, but after 12 months, no luck there. Have recently adopted phoning people, still no luck, but it's got to be better than having some filter applied to your application form because you are wrong colour, age, school, toenails etc.
Others have just sent their CVs to everyone, but this mass mailing doesn't seem to really work - at least I've not heard it has.
Knowing someone seems to be the key. Everyone I know who has got a job, bar one, has known someone to recommend them which has led to a job offer.
Good luck. It isn't easy.