Ask HN: How do you apply for a tech job?

I am interested in learning what are the best practices when it comes to applying for a job. The goal is for this post to serve as a collection of ideas that members of this community (including me) can use. If possible break down your answer into the high level steps that cover your entire process - from search to acceptance or rejecting of a offer. Thanks for participating.

EDIT: Also indicate how you find jobs/listing in the first place. Would like to hear form people who have a big network and people who don't. This will help people who don't have networks tremendously.