I agree completely that you should build a network and use that to get a job. Extra points if you start building the network before you need a job -- networking

I agree completely that you should build a network and use that to get a job. Extra points if you start building the network before you need a job -- networking's a lot more natural if you're not already trying to get something out of people. I disagree that failing to get a job in 3-4 applications represents a problem with your resume/presentation/etc in all circumstances. While there are certainly times that's true (if you're an engineer in the current market, for example), there are many industries where there are simply too many qualified people applying for too few positions for getting a job via a cold application to be anything other than a complete crapshoot. (which, again, only emphasizes the importance of having a network to support your search).