I, too, think these two cards are very similar. For the 2 of Wands, sometimes you can think of choices to be made (like any other 2 might suggest). But it would be a Wand-specific choice (i.e. some situation that would make you divide your energy, like work/school, home/social life, etc.). I think of Wands as creative energy, and career-type energies.
As for the 3 of Wands, sometimes this card can mean foresight. The man is looking forward to his ships returning. Maybe you've sent out resumes, or something along those lines, and you're waiting for an answer. You're looking forward to things happening.
Note that for both cards, I'm saying "sometimes", not definitely or always!
Just my 2 cents, maybe some ideas to get you jump-started.....