The 20-Second Quiz asks you to describe both what you like and don’t like and what you want and don’t want. Then it asks you to include why or how. You must answer both parts of the question in 20-seconds or less. They will be used in target company selection, interviewing, negotiating and evaluating offers received. Their other purpose is to start you thinking about your answers to the stressful behavioral and job-specific questions you will face in various interview situations.

Sit in a quiet place, look the list over once and then answer to yourself a simple “yes” or “no” to each question. Then sit with a friend or search partner and actually have the person ask you each question with a stop or wristwatch handy, in order to time your answers.

Just so you know, very few job seekers have made it through the entire exercise with fluid, succinct answers. Many try to bluff their way through and, when asked follow-up questions to support their 20-second responses, they stumble.

All get some, none get all, and many ramble or pause, or say to their chosen listener, “I can do that one,” or “that’s not important,” or “let’s go on” when in fact, they can’t really provide the answer. This exercise is one of the many building blocks in this book. You are now beginning the preparation process for your resume work and interviews. Don’t skip this exercise. And for your own sake, don’t fake it! Don’t say “ummmm” or “uhhhhh” or pause or hesitate in any way. If you can’t answer any of these questions, or are uncertain about differentiation between terms, don’t worry. You will be able to answer before you are finished.