Well i cant comment as yet cos i only have the CPL but when i have the IR and can really start applying i am dreading it, and expect to have a few years of what you are going through.
I can only say be patient and keep plugging at it, keep showing your face so they remember you, you may become one of the ole boys network then who knows?
Sad way for the industry to be, but there we go
Maybe see you on the circuit in a few months or so