I found the R-22 had a tendency to roll left in a hover and would coach my students to lead in with slight right cyclic pressure. This would help alleviate the left translation. Any left cyclic pressure in hover would result in rapid acceleration to the left, avoid this!
I realized this was half the battle in teaching cyclic hovering skills.
Now, for forward and aft translation, focus your view well outside and in front of the helicopter. Keep the “relative” horizon (i.e. hedge line, tree line) along a specific point across the windscreen using slight forward and aft cyclic pressure. Through your peripheral vision note where the wet compass is relative to the horizon to help refine your forward and aft cyclic inputs.
I’m assuming the wet compass is still mounted on the windscreen support at the pilots eye level.
You’re already familiar with the theory and feel of cyclic control lag and PIO so don’t try to hold a precise position in a hover. Instead, hold in that right lateral cyclic, then, as necessary, move the cyclic forward and aft against that right cyclic pressure to keep the helicopter level in pitch. Don’t worry if the helicopter drifts as long as you are level (both laterally and longitudinally) you’re somewhat in control now. Over time you will refine your cyclic inputs and develop the muscle machine memory skills which will allow you to maintain that steady hover. Good luck and have fun. You will get it.
Remember:
1.) Eyes outside on the horizon.
2.) Lead with slight right cyclic pressure to prevent the helicopter from rolling to the left. This is very important!
3.) Work the cyclic forward and aft against that right cyclic pressure to keep the helicopter level in pitch.
4.) Remember, as long as you’re not pitching and rolling excessively, you’re somewhat in control. Accept a little forward and aft drifting initially and don’t chase every translation. Allow the helicopter to settle and reach equilibrium/hover trim.