I've been looking on and off for a new position since my current employer was bought by a company that doesn't share the same values...

I've been looking on and off for a new position since my current employer was bought by a company that doesn't share the same values...

Our benefits were cut without compensation made to salaries, many of our higher-ups left which caused many abrupt crises within the company, and most of my favorite co-workers (older, and with more experience) were able to move on to better opportunities.

I've gone back and forth on whether I want to pour myself into the job search or stick with the steady paycheck I have now, though I know competitors offer more (benefits, salary or both) for the same or similar position. It's been over 6 months now, and although at first, I was adamant I would move on and be hired immediately (and my application submission numbers reflected that), I've become more discerning since. I don't want to be offered a new position only to find myself in a similar environment, but so often this means I'm competing for a handful of job openings against hundreds if not thousands of other applicants. The process leaves me depressed, and I've found that most of the time, the best responses I receive (if any) are the automated 'went with other candidates' emails. My efforts simply aren't yielding results.

I've both reached out and been recommended by ex-colleagues for different positions at new companies, but without much luck there either.

Is there something more I can do, whilst keeping my spirits up? For reference, I'm under 30 and still relatively green but I'm so eager to find a company to grow and share my ideas with. If I had the chance just to speak with interviewers/employers, I feel as if I would have a better chance than to hope that my LinkedIn page or resume can 'fill in between the lines' that simply cannot be covered without open conversation.

I just feel stuck. Perhaps I'm better just to 'gain experience' for a few more years here and bide my time..?