Job hunt: 1994; career challenges for recent college grads - includes list of sources for more information - Special Advertising Section

"If I were a new employee," says Sampson, "I'd immediately ask "Where is your library?' You can tell what the company's expecting of you from the kinds of books that are in the library. They would also have a video on the company, and from that you would pick up the names of senior executives and the functions of various departments."

Appearance counts, too, just as it did in your interview. People will be judging you by it, both as a new employee and as an African-American. Look at the people who have succeeded, and follow their example. If they dress conservatively, you follow suit, even if it's not your personal style.

Your first assignment will probably be the first time you are evaluated. Approach it seriously and with enthusiasm. This assignment will show others how you can take initiative, solve problems and interact with others. As an entry-level employee, you can expect some grunt work--it goes with the territory. The key is in how you handle it. If you show initiative, enthusiasm and confidence, people will be willing to give you a boost to the next rung of the corporate ladder.

The next step in your game plan will be to develop leadership skills. A leader has to identify, define, design and implement strategies, and do it without arousing the hostility of co-workers. The key word here is teamwork. Respect your boss and co-workers; the goal is to spotlight yourself, not to sabotage others. Be ready to accept criticism and learn from it. Usually, when someone takes the time to criticize you, they're trying to help you.

All the professionals agree on one thing: Job hunting is a job in itself. Be prepared to put in a full day, every day, doing research and promoting yourself. Until now, you've been in a structured environment, with deadlines to meet and schedules to keep. Now you're on your own, and you have to create your own structure. Above all, you'll need a positive attitude. Know your own value as a potential employee, and keep that in mind always.