Something that helps enormously is to make sure your finder scope is precisely aligned with the centre of your main scope's field of view. Then you can star hop with the finder and point it exactly at the spot where your target should be according to the star map, and once you switch to the main scope at least you'll know you're looking at the exact spot where that elusive smudge of light should be
Depending on the construction of your finder scope and holder it may easily come out of alignment, especially if you transport the scope around, so it's something to watch out for.