It's all about who you know. Forget trying to kiss ass for minutes at a time at mixers. Talk to the guys you interned with and try to get in with them or get referrals from them. If possible, take the initiative and seek out people in positions that can help you and reach out to them. Get aggressive, get creative, get hired... hopefully.
Maybe there might even be guys here who can steer you towards people who are hiring. If nothing else, there are some guys here who can give you better advice than me. I work for the gub'ment.