[pound] the pavement

to actively and tirelessly search for employment or other opportunities

The phrase "pound the pavement" originated from the literal action of pounding or walking heavily on the pavement or sidewalk while searching for employment. It emerged in the early 20th century and became a metaphorical expression for actively seeking work or engaging in job search activities that require physical presence and effort. This idiom is commonly used in the context of job searching or pursuing opportunities. It is employed when individuals actively engage in physical efforts to find employment, such as walking from business to business, distributing resumes, submitting job applications in person, or conducting face-to-face networking.

She pounds the pavement every day, going from office to office in search of a job.
He pounded the pavement for weeks until he finally landed his dream job.
They will be pounding the pavement next month, attending career fairs and networking events to find employment.
We are currently pounding the pavement, reaching out to potential employers and attending job interviews.
They were pounding the pavement tirelessly, searching for employment opportunities in a competitive market.

to travel on foot, either by walking or running

I'm planning to pound the pavement and walk across the city tomorrow.
She's been pounding the pavement all day, trying to get to her destination on time.
The marathon runner pounded the pavement for hours, pushing herself to the limit.
The protesters pounded the pavement, marching through the streets to make their voices heard.