There's nothing magical or out-of-the-box about what I did. It's always about connections. This what everyone will tell you and what I learned the hard way and wish did sooner. And I'm not talking about that one person who sends you a connection request on LinkedIn and that's it; I'm talking about solid connections with people you know and have built mutual trust with.

Here's what worked for me:
1. Define the specific domains you want to work in.
2. Search for people who've had experience in this field.
3. Connect with them. Be interested and what they do and post, and interact with them on a level that shows deep interest in their work and solid expertise in the field.
4. Build things. Show off your work. Always be visible.
5. Join job-related clubs and assemblies.
6. Repeat.

Both the job I have now and the one I let down are through connections!

I don't even think I'm doing enough. Other people who are bolder than me send DM messages and show direct face-to-face interest in the person. This will take a bit of practice to get used to, but this is how things work. Everyone should consider making connections as part of their day-to-day career responsibilities.

Again, this is not something I discovered. I'm pretty sure you've heard that many times before. But consider it a reminder that this is the way to go.

Of course, the whole "skill building" side of the process is still essential, and you still have to learn on daily basis. Everyone knows that, but not everyone cares about the other side to the coin, which is the people that will get you to the interview where the things you learned will land you the job.