I had a 2 year bout of unemployment back in 2009 and it was harrowing. I went from a corporate salaried position to not being able to get a pt supermarket job (although I interviewed!!) I finally finally got a great salaried job at my previous level, but not without my days wondering if I'd ever work again.

Some things I've learned from the experience---

1. Do not isolate yourself! Keep in touch with others out of work, keep in touch with your friends, work on your resume at a coffee shop. Be around people. Talk talk talk. Don't be ashamed to tell the world you need work. You never know who will provide the right lead!

2. Volunteer if necessary. Keep active and involved.

3. Visit your town's Workforce Center (if in USA)--they can provide job search help no matter what level you are at. AND they often offer grants or other funding for classes!!! I ended up with so much help, I am so grateful to them.
I originally thought it was for welfare recipients but it is for anyone.

4. Don't take rejections personally. Keep moving on, moving forward. Fill out tons of applications. Be willing to take anything. All you need are stepping stones.

5. For the most appealing jobs, spend more time on the application and re-format your resume. Tailor your resume to the job by doing this--take as many key words in the job description and work them into your resume. You may need to do this for each job (I suggest putting this work into the jobs that appeal most, not all) HR often uses a program to scan resumes for keyword matches. This gets your foot in the door

6. Join Linked in!!!! Connect to recruiters, former co-workers etc.

7. In interviews remember that most things are train-able, but enthusiasm can't be learned. Stay upbeat, energized and act happy to be there. I've seen great candidates knocked out by having a crappy attitude.

8. Don't give up on yourself.