Looking for a needle in a haystack—that was the feeling I had when I started the search in the summer of 2016 for my dream job: investor relations (IR) consultant. I was proactive in applying to various positions, reaching out to contacts in the industry, and visiting employment specialists. Six months passed, but I heard nothing.

“You’re looking for a job in investor relations,” an employment consultant told me. “My impression is that companies in Canada tend to hire locals versus newcomers. I’m afraid it will be tough.”

Although I wasn’t born in Canada, I had the relevant experience. And most people who were in the same boat told me they faced similar obstacles when they arrived in Canada. However, no matter how hard it seemed, I never thought about giving up getting the job I truly wanted. Here’s what I did next to get it.

Prepare for tomorrow

I attended as many events as possible throughout 2017, because Corporate Canada runs on networking. I followed up with people I met and set up “coffee chats,” which are an integral part of any job search. I prefer face-to-face meetings as I can connect with the person on a personal level, develop better communication skills, and find a way to make a good impression.

Although coffee chats are more casual, I never took them lightly. A few days before each meeting, I researched each person’s background and their field of work. I didn’t need to go into all their details, but I felt it would show the person I was interested in them. And, like a formal interview, I dressed professionally and arrived on time. In fact, I would arrive early to get a comfortable corner where we were less likely to get disturbed.

Throughout the meeting, I made sure the discussion went both ways. Even though I was looking for advice, I didn’t want to dominate the conversation. With all the preparation I had done, I hoped the other person would feel they were respected.

Make yourself visible

After I received my CFA designation in 2016, as well as beginning my job search, I decided to volunteer at CFA Society Toronto. I knew it would be a good starting point, as it linked to the industry in which I wanted to work. I helped out with the 2017 Annual Investment Dinner. From there, I met many investment professionals, who offered their advice for the job search. I also enjoyed working with the executives at the Society and a group of enthusiastic volunteers. Volunteering is truly a great way to demonstrate one’s work attitude and soft skills. By working with people in different settings, it’s easier for them to get to know and trust you.

My goal was not only to increase the number of my connections, but also to make meaningful ones. At events, I took initiative to introduce myself to different people. Sometimes we would start off discussing the job market, but most of the time it was any interesting thing that was currently happening. I learned that networking wasn’t as hard as I had previously imagined. One way to do so is to take a chance to open a conversation and let people feel that it’s interesting talking to you.

To my surprise, my network grew significantly. My network list grew from 88 contacts to more than 500 in over a year. These were people whom I had spoken to at all of the events I attended.

One conference—the IR Magazine Think Tank 2017, which was exclusively for senior corporate investor relations officers and executives—was key. By reaching out proactively, I was able to secure a seat at the conference. At the event, I grabbed the opportunity to introduce myself to many new industry professionals, one of whom introduced me to my current employer.

I sent this person an email soon after the conference, thanking him for his time. He saw my CFA qualification and thought he could connect me with a few companies he knew were hiring. I kept him posted about my job search progress. Later, when I asked him why he helped me in the first place, he told me he saw my efforts in networking and wanted to offer his support.

After 16 months of hard work, I received a phone call from my current employer in November 2017 telling me the great news. “We are happy to offer you the position of investor relations consultant,” the HR manager said. Dream job, indeed!

REFLECT ON YOUR PROCESS

Looking back, landing my new job made me reflect on my life—and the perseverance, motivation, and positive energy that it took.

Have faith — Have faith that everything will work out in the end. If you have a strong desire to find your dream job, you will do everything you can to achieve it—even if takes a long time and you’re turned down numerous times.

Be bold — You might be disinclined to continue your search because of circumstances you can’t control. I realize that your “disadvantage” (“English is not my first language”) can also be your advantage (“English is my second language because I know more than one!”)—depending on how you see and express yourself.

Be positive — This is about knowing and believing the ideal job will come to you. After a round of rejections, we may easily have doubts. But “worry attracts worry, joy attracts joy.” Keep your head up!

I found my needle in the haystack, and I have been in my job for more than a year now. It was definitely worth the hard work. Your hard work will pay off, too! Have confidence in yourself and trust that nature will take its course.