I was surplussed just a number of years ago. It was at such a time where there were a larger numbers of jobs that I could qualify for.
Out of some 100+ jobs I applied for, I only got maybe 5 interviews.
1- This job I was a 100% match for. If fact, it was the job I ultimately got, although it took nearly 45 days to get into the position. I got the formal offer on the very last day on payroll. It worked out.
2nd - I was in tight with a group of people at one time, those people were in super tight with a VP level. He made a call on my behalf and got a call like 30 minutes later. Sadly, that didn't go so far.
3rd- Another good match interview. I never heard back from them, that position may have been cancelled
4th-A close friend was friends with the hiring manager. That was my fall back position
5th-Can't recall this one.
The story here, it is a numbers game. If you apply enough, you might survive. Naturally there needs to be jobs available.
Right now, if you are in ATO, there are only a handful of jobs that might be something you could qualify for.
Originally posted by @XJySzBo-1ner.