I'll second the using a recruiter point, I've seen it help people with MBAs going for Director jobs or people without a GED going for entry level menial labor roles. Worse case scenario they have trouble placing you but you get a professional who knows the local job market on your "team" who can answer questions for you. They only get paid if you get hired, but they want to get more business from companies so they have a vested interest in getting you hired in the right position.

When I was recruiting I was more likely to give an interview, even if it was a courtesy, to a recruiter candidate than a direct hire candidate because I knew they were likely pre-screened and 20 minutes talking to someone who may or may not be a great fit was worth it to keep the relationship with the recruiter. So if one of the recruiters presented you there was like a 75% chance I'd phone screen you even if my initial reaction would have been to pass you over.

A recruiter can be especially helpful if you're moving industries or have a more "unusual" background (i.e. phd, foriegn work history, military - there are some great veteran focused recruitment firms in the US especially for JMOs) because they can help lay ground work and prep the interviewer on why /your/ unconventional background is actually a perfect fit.

It costs you nothing and some of the nicer firms will do interview prep and help with your resume formatting too.

If youre not sure where to start and are US based try Manpower or Randstad for decent general indutry full/part time recruiters. It's FREE!