Get Your Opportunity Through Persistence

“Anytime you can do more than everybody else, you’ll stand out.”

I’ve met a lot of people in my career, but the ones who stand out are the ones who refuse to give up. Persistence will open doors that talent alone can’t budge. I’ve seen it happen more than once.

Years ago, when I was working in Paris, a woman kept reaching out to me about a job. I didn’t know her. I had no openings. And I honestly didn’t have time to deal with one more request. But she didn’t quit. She kept finding ways to stay on my radar.

One day, I showed up at an event at the Ritz in Paris, and there she was. She was standing right next to Julia Child. She had arranged for me to be invited. It was clever, respectful, and memorable. And eventually, she joined the team and did an outstanding job. Her persistence paid off, and frankly, it helped me too.

I’ve seen the same story play out with young people trying to get their first big opportunity. They hear “no” once and disappear. The difference between them and the ones who succeed is simple: the successful ones keep showing up. They don’t push rudely or demand attention. They just stay present long enough for timing to finally work in their favor.

Most doors don’t open on the first knock. Many don’t open on the fifth. But people notice when you keep showing up. They notice when you do your homework, look sharp, stay prepared, and show that you care enough to keep trying. That sends a message about the kind of person you’ll be once you’re hired.

In a world where résumés get lost in digital piles and decisions happen fast, persistence is one of the few things you can control. Don’t think of it as being pushy. It’s being intentional.