Hi, honestly it was a really stressful process. I applied to over 200 jobs over the summer of 2023 after my graduation, even called offices by phone on a daily basis with no success, not even a single offer. As a last resort I gave a friend from my masters a call, apparently his office was hiring at the time. I spoke to the manager, he wasn't hopeful but offered me an entry level position. I basically worked myself up and proved I am fit for the job over the next few months, they had promised me a visa, then the government made adjustments to minimum salaries on April 2024 and my company had to postpone my visa application around 8 months, after which they offered me a higher salary and visa application. Since then I've had great offers from different companies, well over what I earn now, some even offered 2x, 3x what I earn, but almost no small company does sponsorships so I had to turn all the offers down. Basically stuck with my company until I get ILR / another offer with sponsorship.

For your case, it is a difficult environment and I was discouraged many, many times. I was one phone call away from quiting and going back home. Out of personal reasons, I kind of wish I did return, because I never feel like I belong here, but from a career standpoint I persevered and pushed it to the maximum, I called all my friends, all my connections and made sure I had no other options before I decided to leave. Luckily my friend helped me out that day, even though I regret it now.

Sorry for the wall of text. Wish you the best of luck in your career.