Don't limit your job search only to companies actively advertising open positions. Spend 20-30% of your time proactively contacting companies that interest you, even if they don't have a relevant posting. Less competition gives you a better chance to stand out.
Companies may soon start hiring or expand teams without publicly posting jobs first. If you make a strong impression, they may create an opening specially for you. Many organizations continuously interview talented candidates as part of an ongoing recruiting effort, pausing and resuming as needs change.
Getting referred or directly emailing your credentials allows you to bypass the job ad process and immediately showcase your skills. The company can then evaluate if you may be a fit for current or upcoming needs that aren't broadly advertised yet.
With a proactive direct outreach strategy beyond just applying to posted roles, you can unlock "hidden" job opportunities and land positions that are never publicly listed on sites. Don't wait for the perfect match to appear - create your own opportunity with targeted companies.