[JSeymourATL]

> The feedback I’ve gotten...

Corporate feedback is mostly Bullshit! There's often a weird dating aspect here. Dude, face it the girl just isn't into you. Don't waste energy trying to figure it out, move on!

> I’m running out of people I know and their connections...

This is where Linkedin is actually useful. Jump on the advanced search feature. Zero-in on profiles of senior executives who you can help. Think local CIO's or VP Engineering types, mix & match keywords. Put together a hit-list of 12 individuals (likely suspects) and start reaching out to them. Not as a job-seeking supplicant, but as an engineering peer looking to network and learn more about them and what they are working on.

Simply ask, do you know anyone who could use some software engineering help?

[hnthrowaway9001]

I've never been able to take rejection well, as I have next to no self esteem. I am trying to just push it out of my mind but the nagging thought of "I'm really just terrible" keep coming back.

I have done the LinkedIn method to a degree, but for places that I have already applied to. I also mostly looked for recruiters as I feel rude sending it to big important people at those companies.

[JSeymourATL]

> I also mostly looked for recruiters as I feel rude sending it to big important people at those companies.

Don't waste your time with Bozo recruiters. You'll find Big Important People often very receptive if your direct approach is sincere and buttoned-up.