As a Gen Z and recent college graduate, I am no stranger to how challenging it is to find an entry-level position right now. I fought the battle for the last year, ultimately finding a job—and one that I genuinely like. Not everyone has been so lucky. I am surrounded by friends, family and classmates that are struggling to land a role.

Here are three pieces of advice I would give to any recent grad on the job hunt:

Leverage EVERY connection. This may sound like nothing new, but no connection is too small or too far removed. Whenever you come across a position you’re interested in, find the company’s LinkedIn page and take a deep dive into the people that work there. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people that you aren’t directly connected to. The worst thing they’ll do is say no. One of the best ways to get an interview these days is through a referral, and many employees get paid when their referral gets hired. I made it to multiple last-round interviews because of my sister’s prom date’s brother. Any connection is a good connection.

Play the long game. Everyone always says to network, but no one actually tells you how to do it effectively and how long it can take. First, narrow your job search to a specific industry and/or specific companies and look them up on LinkedIn. Find a connection that can introduce you to someone that works there (a college professor works great for this) and ask to meet with them. Ask about their career path, their current position and show real interest in the industry and company. Follow up with this contact every few months—maybe with an industry article or a question, etc. If you can form a connection with them, they are far more likely to turn to you first when a job opening does eventually pop up.

Don’t compare yourself to others. The corporate world can feel like relentless competition. I went to a hardcore business school with mostly accounting and finance majors who had jobs secured before senior year even started. It can feel like a lot of pressure, but comparing yourself to everyone else is only going to be more discouraging. Everyone’s paths move at their own pace and your time will come. You have no idea what kind of connections those around you have or the skills they may have honed on their own time. There are so many recent grads in the same position as you, so know you’re never alone.

For any new grads interested in marketing, creative and advertising roles, I encourage you to reach out to my company’s recruiting firm, Communications Collaborative, by joining our network here. CC works with some of the best brands in New England and beyond. They may just be the connection that pays off for you.