Lead generation processes

[Benjamin Hoffman]

I am starting out in real estate. In looking for my first project I have started looking on the open market through online sites like Zillow and having my agent sending me listings on the MLS. This has presented a bit of a problem as any deals I find either I am getting outbid or am getting to them too late.

Are there any suggestions for someone new, like myself, to generate leads off market? 

Or, what proven techniques have you used to get leads off market?