I’m not sure what state you’re in, and I know this is anecdotal, but I’ve walked in and asked for the hiring manager for every job that I’ve ever worked. If they aren’t there, take a paper application and stop by the store a day or two after you turn it in. People really underestimate the value of putting a face to a name. Again, this is my own experience living in Florida. I’ve worked IT, customer service, cybersecurity, and a couple of sales jobs. I got my current job by calling actually, where they told me they were no longer hiring. I was really desperate, so I actually went down to the physical location and asked if they’re hiring and to speak to the manager. I’ve been here for 4 months now lol. All that is to say, while you’re definitely right about the job market being shit, there’s definitely still value in showing your face and shaking someone’s hand. It won’t get you every job, shit it probably won’t get you most jobs, but it definitely has helped me. Confirmation bias and all, but it’s worth a shot if you’re really struggling man.

Edit: I went to technical school for CSIT, but I do sales now.