"I have no network" can be an important issue. I have similar problems, and don't know where to start. It's easy to give tips like that, but how in practice you'd build the network? You don't want results 20-30 years from now.

I got into most places by reference. That doesn't mean success - no high salaries, no good prospects, just barely managing to find the next place. I wouldn't say I'm too bad socially; young nerdish traits waned enough already. But with growing age finding Bay Area-adequate salary - kids, you know - is harder, not easier, even though experience and skills grow.

It's a real problem. Would be thankful for a good advice.