Overlapping with some things mentioned by others: 1) While you search, you might start contributing to bigger open source projects that have visibility. It sho

Overlapping with some things mentioned by others: 1) While you search, you might start contributing to bigger open source projects that have visibility. It shows you can be part of a team. Then you also have "references" that can vouch for you; your employers can see your work directly. 2) Try thinking of your professional identity; how do you market yourself. This is a combination of your skills and interests in terms of what types of projects you want to work on and want to be called upon. What do you want to be known for? Truthfully, your biggest asset right now will probably be that you have some skills (don't have to be trained from zero), and are super cheap and willing to do more than you get paid for.