Goldman Sachs HireVue Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. Talk about a time when you succeeded under immense pressure.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants assurance that you can handle working under pressure. The goal of your response is to provide evidence that you have the mindset and tenacity to behave professionally and appropriately while working under pressure.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
This question presents the opportunity for you to be a storyteller. Using the STAR method, form an engaging story-based response that showcases your proudest accomplishment. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Use a solid and compelling example of your poise under pressure. Be as specific as you can while remaining concise and on topic. Your answer should include a story of a time when you were under a type of pressure related to this position's duties. Your response should come from a recent scenario.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about a specific time when you were under a lot of pressure at work, yet you succeeded. Outline the situation, explain why you felt under pressure, and describe your actions.
Spotlight that you made well-calculated decisions even though you were feeling some strain or conflict. If your actions made a measurable impact, discuss the results you generated.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I know that working in a high-pressure environment such as investment banking can be very stressful. Throughout my career in the financial sector, I have gained the skills that help me constructively deal with stress. (Situation) Last year, one of our Investment Managers retired, and she passed me one of her most important legacy accounts. I was thrilled to have the opportunity; however, this account was notorious for being high-pressure. (Task) I knew that onboarding this client would be challenging. It would take a great deal of diligence, research, and time on my end. I felt overwhelmed, but I knew that serving this account to the best of my ability would speak volumes about my firm and be a valuable addition to my portfolio. (Action) During this time, I sought out a mentor with more experience in the financial sector. This individual taught me incredibly beneficial approaches and tools for managing my time, controlling stress, and regulating my mindset under pressure. (Result) As a result, I successfully onboarded this new account and even received accolades from the client, which reached my leadership team. Now, when I feel immense pressure on the job and in my personal life, I lean on these mechanisms and techniques to get me to the finish line with focus and poise."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Behavioral
2. Talk about a time when you failed at work.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs is looking for evidence that you can recover from a disappointing outcome. The goal of your response is not to focus on the failure. Instead, it's to showcase your ability to recover from the failure. Your answer should highlight your tenacity, dedication, and drive, even when things don't go as planned.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Even the most notable professionals have stumbled and recovered from professional failure. Being unable to speak about failure will give the hiring managers the impression that you lack self-awareness and have little desire to grow and learn. For this reason, avoid giving a response that sounds as though you have never failed.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
We all fail occasionally, and there is no need to be ashamed of defeat. The magic is in the lessons we learn from these situations. Speak about the outcome of a project/task that was not what you wanted it to be, but you were able to recover. Perhaps you were better off in the end or learned a valuable lesson.
Behavioral-based interview questions that begin with 'Talk about a time when...' are best answered using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Organizing your response using this storytelling framework will ensure that you provide the hiring managers with the right amount of information and detail.
Outline the roadblock you faced, and share how you approached the situation to ensure a good recovery. Discuss your level of dedication, even in the face of failure, and how you will make an impact in this new role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"(Situation) My former employer put me through a last-minute advanced Excel course that I failed. (Task) I was unprepared for the course's challenging content and should not have agreed to begin with an advanced-level course. (Action) I told my manager that I was not excelling in the class. We discussed this failure together and realized that I was not yet ready for the advanced-level coursework. I was more of an intermediate-level user. To fix the situation, I studied online for a few weeks and then retook the course when I felt more prepared. (Result) This approach worked much better, and I finished with 92% the second time around."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Behavioral
3. What are your greatest strengths, and how will they be a fit for Goldman Sachs?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know about your most significant strengths, and they want to identify if you have the skills required to do the job successfully. The goal of your response is to highlight your belief that the company's needs and your skills are a match. You also want to showcase your readiness to make a specific contribution to Goldman Sachs when they hire you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Avoid overused generic responses such as, 'I am an excellent communicator,' or 'I am a hard worker.' The interviewer wants to see how you stand out from other candidates.
Your strengths can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks. Consider including:
- Hard skills such as technical expertise or project management skills
- Soft skills such as time management and critical thinking
- Personality traits such as being adaptable, kind, and self-sufficient
- Knowledge-based skills such as speaking multiple languages
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Speak specifically about the strengths you possess that will make you good at the role with Goldman Sachs. When deciding which strengths to mention, it's essential to carefully review the job posting to uncover the company/department's greatest needs. Then, you can talk about which strengths you possess that align with those needs.
Here is a 4-step approach to help you prepare a response:
1. Look through Goldman Sach's job posting, website, social media posts, and other online resources.
2. As you comb through these resources, write down which strengths you believe Goldman Sachs needs most in a team member.
3. Go through your list and consider which of those strengths you possess. Pick out a couple of strengths that will contribute to your success in the job and with the company.
4. Draft a response highlighting the strengths you chose from your list. Tie these strengths into Goldman Sachs' needs and support your answer with an example from your life or work history.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My greatest strengths include my ability to boost the confidence of my team members. I like to excite the team at the beginning of the day with my enthusiastic, go-getter attitude. I am also self-aware and a mindful listener, which helps me gain the trust of my team. I easily relate to others and get to know them and their needs. My employee retention rates are the second-highest in my company due to these interpersonal strengths. I understand that Goldman Sachs is seeking a Transaction Manager who can nurture excellent team relationships, and I am confident that my interpersonal skills will be a fit."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"My greatest strengths can be broken into Collaboration, Organization, and Creativity.
I enjoy and thrive within diverse groups, and I believe I can seamlessly boost confidence in individuals who also communicate with thoughtful enthusiasm and encourage initiative-taking. I work best in cross-collaborative environments and prefer working directly with others in exploring design objectives and consensus-forming. From my research, Goldman Sachs is indeed a unique environment for this collaborative development culture.
Organization is how I refer to my communication as well as analytical confidence. I believe how I use data and objectives to arrange my own judgment and communicate them simply comes down to mental organization. Valuing salience while respecting the details is how I've been able to produce intuitive and simple roadmaps, build complex visual models, or create compelling content that actually succeeds at identifying client digital needs, such as in my Program Manager work at ___, or Directorship at _____. This position's work in Product Management and Marketing needs the organization of sound analysis and communication to promote the best quality and tailoring of Goldman Sachs' products and offerings.
Finally, creativity is one of my greatest strengths by how I have learned to leverage curiosity to rethink, and sometimes retool, the development of a product. Client needs are always changing, a standard that I have seen across technology spaces, as well as asset management and variety of institutional banking services. Creativity is what I use to employ research diligence and user testing to promote wider approaches to a product's purpose. Pushing innovative content requires this form of sincere interest in the consulting phase, which I believe this role demands."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Wow! What a thorough reply! You've done a great job of explaining what your strengths are and why they are relevant to this role and company. While all of your details are fantastic, just be careful not to overwhelm the interviewer with way too much information. Strive to be straightforward and direct in your answer. Great job!
Behavioral
4. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve this weakness?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs is looking for evidence that you are aware of your shortcomings. They also want to know that you embrace opportunities to grow and improve. The goal of your response is to show the hiring managers that you are self-aware, reflective, and can readily identify areas for improvement.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Avoid talking about weaknesses that are a red flag or potentially point to a more significant issue. For instance, if time management is a weakness, the interviewer might wonder if you can meet your deadlines or if you are frequently late to work. For this reason, it's best to choose weaknesses that will not impact your ability to succeed in the role.
It's also essential to give a thoughtful response. Avoid cliche or overused statements like:
- I work too hard
- I am a perfectionist
- I am a workaholic
- My weaknesses are also my strengths
- My greatest weakness is chocolate (insert uncomfortable chuckle)
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Goldman Sachs wants you to be honest about your weaknesses. At the same time, the company wants to see that you are proactive in improving yourself.
Choose a weakness that is not a core skill for the position. For instance, if you are interviewing for an administrator role, your greatest weakness should not be your Excel skills.
Perhaps you are watching YouTube tutorials to gain skills in a particular area. Maybe you are reading the latest-and-greatest books on the skills you wish to improve, or perhaps you are taking an online workshop to bridge a skills gap.
When discussing your most significant weaknesses, you must display your interest in professional growth. Be sure to maintain a positive tone, show confidence in your ability to improve, and demonstrate a desire for improvement.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"One weakness I'm improving is my ability to be concise when I send email updates to the department. Brevity has not always been my strongest point; however, I have been practicing by writing a first draft and then asking myself which words can be deleted. So far, I have noticed a marked improvement; however, I believe that clear communication is a work-in-progress and can always be improved."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Behavioral
5. When facing a difficult situation, how do you react?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know if your reactions to problems reflect maturity and professionalism. The goal of your response is to show the hiring managers that the way you react in difficult situations is a fit for their team and the company's values.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
One of Goldman Sachs' business principles is, 'We take great pride in the professional quality of our work.' The company states, "We have an uncompromising determination to achieve excellence in everything we undertake. Though we may be involved in a wide variety and heavy volume of activity, we would, if it came to a choice, rather be best than biggest."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
The hiring managers at Goldman Sachs look for candidates who can avoid feeling defeated in challenging situations. You can show the interviewer that you have the tenacity and excellent problem-solving abilities by discussing how you approach and overcome complex problems.
Because this question asks, 'What would you do if...,' you can respond hypothetically. The Situation, Solution, Benefit formula is helpful in this instance.
Step 1) Situation: Express your understanding of the hypothetical situation.
Step 2) Solution: Outline the solution you would introduce in this hypothetical situation.
Step 3) Benefit: Highlight how your approach to resolving the customer conflict will benefit the hiring company.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"(Situation) I understand that encountering difficult situations in the workplace is common, especially in an industry where regulation and compliance are so strict and constantly evolving. (Solution) When a difficult situation arises, my first instinct is to take a step back and absorb what just happened. I then go into 'brainstorm' mode, jotting down potential ways to resolve the situation. I might use a pros and cons list to determine the best course of action for a fast and amicable resolution. (Benefit) I read that one of Goldman Sach's core values is taking pride in the professional quality of the company's work. Rest assured, should Goldman Sachs hire me, I will take pride in every aspect of my work. Even in difficult situations, I will maintain an uncompromising determination to achieve excellence in everything I undertake. I appreciate that Goldman Sachs would rather be the best than the biggest. Part of being the best is carefully assessing and finding solutions to difficult situations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Behavioral
6. At Goldman Sachs, we pride ourselves on putting our clients first. Talk about a time when you demonstrated exceptional care for others.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs always puts its clients' interests first. The goal of your response is to show the hiring managers that your approach to client service is a match for the company's most important business principles.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
One of Goldman Sachs' Business Principles states, "Our client's interests always come first. Our experience shows that if we serve our clients well, our own success will follow."
Goldman Sachs also states: "Our clients always come first. We serve them through a global network powered by partnership, integrity, and a shared purpose of advancing sustainable economic growth and financial opportunity."
When forming your response, be sure to fold in some of the language used at Goldman Sachs.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
The hiring managers at Goldman Sachs are looking for a response that showcases your ability and desire to deliver exceptional client service. The expectation is that you naturally go above and beyond for others, putting the client first.
Since this question asks you to 'Talk about a time when,' it's important to incorporate storytelling into your response. Talk about a time when you demonstrated exceptional care for others in a workplace setting. You can form your story using the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When I was working as a bank teller for Bank XYZ, a customer came in to transfer funds between accounts. Unfortunately, she forgot her wallet and did not have her driver's license or bank card. I explained that since I could not verify her identity, I could not facilitate the transaction. She was frustrated but, of course, understood the security issue. Instead, I walked the customer through downloading our banking app, and we set up her mobile banking account together. In the end, she was pleased with the mobile service and could complete the transfer on her own through the app. I appreciate that Goldman Sachs is committed to always putting its client's interests first. While preparing for this interview, I read that one of the company's business principles states, 'if we serve our clients well, our own success will follow.' This sentiment is incredible and one that I agree with wholeheartedly. I will uphold this service standard every day in my work with Goldman Sachs."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
7. How would your most recent leader describe you?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants evidence that you have a history of building positive relationships with previous leaders and employers. The goal of your response is to show that your character is strong, that you have built healthy relationships in your previous roles, and that your character aligns with the traits Goldman Sachs looks for in its team members.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Avoid guessing what your most recent manager thinks of you. If you respond unsure, the hiring managers may not feel confident in your employer/employee relationships. For instance, rather than saying, "I think maybe my manager would describe me as dedicated to my work," try saying, "My manager would describe me as dedicated to my work because I deliver on deadlines and often make myself available after hours when my clients need me."
Hopefully, your current leader is communicative with you and regularly expresses what they enjoy and appreciate about your work ethic. If possible, form your response around takeaways from your last performance review or a piece of feedback you have recently received from your leader. You can further solidify your answer by referring to reliable references, such as any LinkedIn recommendations on your profile.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Offer 1-3 of your best traits when you respond. Then, support those traits with an example of when you emulated those behaviors. You can also provide details of a measurable accomplishment. For instance, if you received a 100% customer satisfaction survey result, talk about this achievement as supporting evidence. For example, you could say, "My most recent manager would say that I am customer-focused. In fact, I recently received a 100% customer satisfaction rating in our company's latest customer happiness survey."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my last performance review and also in some casual discussions, my manager has described me as motivated, encouraging to others, and consistent. I strive to exceed expectations when I can, and I encourage my fellow team members to deliver their best work. My current manager is happy to speak on my behalf as a positive reference."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
8. Talk to us about your proudest accomplishment.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know which of your professional accomplishments you value the most. The goal of your response is to provide evidence that you are a strong hire. You can accomplish this by showcasing an exceptional accomplishment from the past.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Use a solid and compelling example and be as specific as possible while remaining concise and on topic. Your answer should include a proud accomplishment that relates to the position. Use an example that is as recent as possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
This question presents the opportunity for you to be a storyteller. Using the STAR method, form an engaging story-based response that showcases your proudest accomplishment. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Telling a story about your most significant achievement will give the hiring managers a definite idea of what matters to you. Your reply should also spotlight why your past accomplishments indicate future success.
Show the company more about your personality, work ethic, diligence, and what motivates you. It's okay to brag a bit when answering this question but remain confident vs. arrogant. You should be proud of yourself for what you've accomplished so far.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"(Situation & Task) While working as an Investment Analyst with Company XYZ, I was responsible for supporting the Investment Management team through research and strategic recommendations. During the pandemic, we began to find that regulations were becoming more stringent, and investment banks were required to have greater safeguards against compliance breaches. This situation presented an excellent opportunity for our small firm to explore a more robust, more efficient tech stack. (Action) I began to research new tools, processes, and systems to boost our teams' efficiencies and safeguard us through a better-consolidated system. After a couple of weeks, I made solid recommendations to the Investment Management team. (Result) By spotlighting the upside of greater efficiencies and added security, I initiated smart and responsible change within the firm. My manager was very pleased with my initiative, and today, the firm has stronger processes for managing regulatory reporting demands."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
9. Talk about your ideal work environment.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know that the work environment offered by their company is a match for your needs and desires. The goal of your response is to clearly describe your ideal work environment so that the hiring managers can assess if this opportunity is a two-way match.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
When applying for a job, the fit has to match both ways. Goldman Sachs knows this, and the hiring managers want to ensure that the work environment is suitable for you.
There are a few factors to take into consideration when looking at the work environment:
- Are questions encouraged without judgment
- Is continued learning and education encouraged
- Does Goldman Sachs embrace those with an entrepreneurial mindset
- Does the office allow for flexibility such as working from home or flexible hours
- Are there regular team stand-ups and opportunities to collaborate
- Is it an open-air environment without cubicles or walled offices
- Is two-way feedback encouraged and acceptable
- Are the goals and objectives set as a team, individually, or both
- Are there strict dress codes, after-hours expectations, and other restrictions
- Is the initial training comprehensive, or is there a sink-or-swim mentality
- Is recognition provided for a job well done, or are regular performance incentives provided
- Are employees promoted based on performance or only on tenure
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Choose two or three work environment factors that are important to you, and discuss why you value these factors. Once you have described your ideal work environment, make a connection between your desires and what you know/have heard about working for Goldman Sachs.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My ideal work environment is where I am working with supportive and positive people. We help each other achieve our goals and celebrate victories together when we work as a team. I find that the best work environment is when we empower each other by uplifting each other and rising together. From my research, I believe that Goldman Sachs provides an environment like this, and I look forward to learning more."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
10. Are you applying to work for any of Goldman Sachs' competitors?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know if you are entertaining close competitors or discussing similar roles with other hiring companies. The hiring managers also want to know if your job search stage will impact their preferred timing for making a hiring decision. The goal of your response is to inform Goldman Sachs of your job search status while further expressing your interest in this specific opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Avoid giving the impression that you are only counting on this particular opportunity. Think of this interview question as a 'first date' question. If the person you are on a first date with asked for the names of other people you're dating, you wouldn't start listing other people's names. You also wouldn't say, 'I'm fully committed to only you.' Instead, you want to express your interest while remaining open to other opportunities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
It is essential to Goldman Sachs that their hiring managers understand where you are in your job search and which roles or companies are most appealing to you. It will make the interview and hiring process smoother when Goldman Sachs knows what they need to do to remain competitive with your time and attention.
Talk about your search without disclosing every detail of where else you are interviewing. You are never obligated to reveal the names of the companies you're entertaining. Instead of saying, "Tomorrow I have a second interview with Company ABC and a third interview booked with Company XYZ at the end of the week..." consider saying, "I am actively interviewing with two other companies. One is a financial tech company, and the other is a SaaS company focused on cryptocurrency and traditional investments...."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am interviewing with two other organizations for similar roles and am in the third interview stage for one of these positions. I am eager to secure work shortly. However, I will wait for the right opportunity before accepting a job offer. I am interested to know the hiring teams' approximate timeline for this hiring decision. Perhaps we could cover this in our first face-to-face meeting."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
11. Why this division at Goldman Sachs?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know why you want to work for their firm and why you applied to this specific division. The goal of your response is to provide a compelling answer that highlights what excites you about this particular opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Goldman Sachs has numerous divisions with multiple job opportunities. These divisions include:
- Consumer and Wealth Management
- Global Markets
- Asset Management
- Investment Banking
- Controllers
- Risk Division...and more
Before completing your HireVue interview, consider the deeper reasons why the division you applied to is exciting and meaningful to you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
There are likely a couple or maybe even a few divisions you could join. The hiring managers at Goldman Sachs want to know why you applied to the role (or roles) you did.
Genuinely consider why you want to work for the division(s) to which you applied. Then, take the time to carve out a unique reason that reaches beyond the surface. A surface reason is that it aligns with your education. A compelling reason is that the purpose and goals of the division resonate with you and align with the career growth you desire.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I chose to apply to the Consumer and Wealth division of Goldman Sachs for a couple of important reasons. First, I read that the Consumer and Wealth Management division helps empower clients and customers worldwide to reach their financial goals. This advisor-led wealth management division provides financial planning, investment management, banking, and comprehensive advice to many clients, including ultra-high net worth and high net worth individuals. I also appreciate that this division provides digital solutions for consumers to spend better, borrow, invest, and save, a genuine passion of mine. Most of all, I understand that the growth of this division comes from its relentless focus on Goldman Sachs' people and clients. There will be many opportunities for me to contribute to the success and culture of the Consumer and Wealth team."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
12. How do you keep your knowledge of investment banking relevant and up-to-date?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know that you have a passion for industry news and you see the value in keeping your industry knowledge up-to-date. The goal of your response is to highlight the resources you lean on for current industry information while showing the hiring authorities at Goldman Sachs that you value staying informed.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Goldman Sachs publishes a multitude of insights on its website. These insights include:
- 'Overview' where Goldman Sachs economists and experts share insights on macro trends shaping the global economy.
- 'Talks at GS' where the company convenes leading thinkers to share insights and ideas shaping the world.
- 'Exchanges at Goldman Sachs,' a podcast where experts from around the firm discuss developments shaping industries, markets, and the global economy.
- 'Top of Mind' where Allison Nathan of Goldman Sachs Research dives into macro developments that are top of mind for investors, executives, and policymakers.
- Articles that provide an in-depth exploration of markets, sustainability, technology disruption, and economics.
- 'Goldman Sachs Research,' featuring original insights on the economy, markets, and industries, drawn from research teams worldwide.
When responding to this question, you can stand out from other candidates by speaking about a new piece of knowledge you gained from one of Goldman Sacs' helpful resources.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Clients trust Goldman Sachs with billions upon billions of dollars, so they need to know that you have the knowledge required to be of service to these clients.
As a professional in the wealth, finance, and investment industry, you must be capable of quickly instilling a feeling of confidence in your clients. You can build this trust by having the most up-to-date industry information since your knowledge will help your clients protect their money and grow their investments.
Provide Goldman Sachs with details of how you remain up-to-date with your market knowledge. Talk about what you do to show your clients that you have the knowledge needed to help them make sound financial decisions.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Building client trust is crucial to Goldman Sachs, which is a value we share. One of the most important steps in building trust in being a voice that the client looks to when the market changes or they have an important question about their investments. Every quarter I provide my prospects and clients with a free, in-depth market report. I research and write the report myself, positioning myself as a thought leader and someone they can trust. If big news is released, I aim to be the first person in their inbox, offering them tips on how to protect or grow their investments. One of my favorite resources for remaining in the know has been listening to 'Exchanges at GS,' the podcast published by Goldman Sachs. I listened to one episode recently about Europe's digital economy and what's driving its tech acceleration. I found it fascinating to learn more about Europe's supportive government policies and the recent surge of private capital investments in the tech sector. If hired by Goldman Sachs, I will continue to provide immense value to our clients by continually tapping into the content provided by GS."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
13. Why Goldman Sachs?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know precisely why you want to work for their firm. The goal of your response is to provide a compelling answer that highlights what excites you about this specific company and the opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Before your interview, take some time to learn more about Goldman Sachs' Business Principles. These principles have likely drawn you to apply for a career with Goldman Sachs. The principles include:
- Our assets are our people, capital, and reputation.
- Our goal is to provide superior returns to our shareholders.
- We take great pride in the professional quality of our work.
- We stress creativity and imagination in everything we do.
- We make an unusual effort to identify and recruit the very best person for every job.
- We offer our people the opportunity to move ahead more rapidly than possible at most other places.
- We stress teamwork in everything we do.
- The dedication of our people to the firm and the intense effort they give their jobs are greater than one finds in most other organizations.
- We consider our size an asset that we try hard to preserve.
- We constantly strive to anticipate the rapidly changing needs of our clients and to develop new services to meet those needs.
- We regularly receive confidential information as part of our normal client relationships.
- Our business is highly competitive, and we aggressively seek to expand our client relationships.
- Integrity and honesty are at the heart of our business.
- Our client's interests always come first.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
There are many high-end wealth management firms you could work for, and Goldman Sachs wants to know why they are the stand-out employer for you. Genuinely consider why you want to work for Goldman Sachs over one of its competitors. Then, take the time to carve out a unique reason that reaches beyond the surface. A surface reason would be because you know someone who works there. A compelling reason is that Goldman Sach's business principles, including those on integrity and honesty, resonate deeply with you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I chose to apply to Goldman Sachs for many reasons. In addition to your sparkling reputation in the investment banking sector, I appreciate Goldman Sachs's immense efforts to close the gender gap in the finance industry. The company's programs have trained thousands of women entrepreneurs in developing economies worldwide. Goldman Sachs knows that empowering women makes sound economic sense. This awareness is one of the most compelling reasons I want to become a part of this team. There will be many opportunities for me to contribute while being able to proudly say that I work for the most reputable and honest firm in the world."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
14. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs would like to know what captures your interest outside the workplace. The goal of your response is to tell the hiring managers something unique and memorable about yourself, ensuring you are a standout candidate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
When talking about what you do in your spare time, avoid offering a negative response like, "Spare time - what spare time! Between work and my kids, I am back-to-back with tasks all day."
Instead, talk about a passion or interest that you have. Your answer should be memorable so that when the hiring managers review your HireVue video submission, they can say, "Remember that's the person who...(insert your interesting hobby or passion here)."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Having hobbies and interests outside of work is incredibly helpful for maintaining your health and happiness. Talk passionately about the activities that interest you outside of the workplace. Although you should always be yourself, try to avoid activities that may feel controversial to others, such as hunting.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my spare time, I love to bake. I have been taking baking lessons at our local culinary school every Saturday for the last six months and have learned some interesting baking techniques. My ultimate goal is to master the art of making macarons. When I make a new creation that I'm proud of, I will bring the treats to my family or work - a fun way to share my passion and knowledge with others."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
15. Goldman Sachs has a diverse team. How do you support DE&I efforts in your professional or personal life?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants evidence that you are keen on supporting societal change, justice, and equality. The goal of your response is to show the hiring managers that you are active in your DE&I efforts and that you understand how important these initiatives are to Goldman Sachs.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
On its website, Goldman Sachs states, "At the crux of our efforts is a focus on cultivating and sustaining a diverse work environment and workforce, which is critical to meeting the unique needs of our diverse client base and the communities in which we operate. We are committed to making progress toward racial equity, advancing gender equality, and increasing representation at every level of our firm."
Goldman Sachs has many DE&I efforts such as Inclusion Networks, Diversity Awards, a Gender Pay Gap Report, and various work charters. Before your interview, do your research and discover which DE&I effort resonates the most with you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Goldman Sachs is known for its exceptional DE&I efforts and standards in the workplace. The hiring managers want evidence that you are keen on supporting societal change, justice, and equality. Like an interviewer asking about your volunteer experience, this question addresses the efforts you put forward to immerse yourself in opportunities to support others. When answering this question, provide a specific example of how you currently support DE&I efforts, either at work or in your personal life.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important topics to me, so I actively seek opportunities to build relationships with people of many different cultures, beliefs, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This year I started volunteering at a non-profit organization helping our underserved communities and senior veterans. The people I interact with while volunteering has helped me become more aware of any unconscious bias that I have held toward the underserved. This exposure has helped me become more aware of the needs of others and has guided me to develop a greater sense of empathy that translates into my personal life and my professional interactions. Goldman Sachs has many DE&I efforts, such as Inclusion Networks and Diversity Awards. These efforts excite me. Should I be chosen to join the Goldman Sachs team, I would love to become as involved as possible in supporting and growing these efforts."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
16. Talk about your most important business principles and how they align with Goldman Sachs.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants evidence that your professional principles align with what the company values most. The goal of your response is to highlight specific ways that your principles align with Goldman Sachs, ensuring you are a great addition to the company culture.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Before your interview, take some time to learn more about Goldman Sachs' 14 Business Principles. It's essential to study and understand these principles so that you can showcase the precise alignment between you and the company's culture.
Goldman Sachs' Business Principles include:
- Our assets are our people, capital, and reputation.
- Our goal is to provide superior returns to our shareholders.
- We take great pride in the professional quality of our work.
- We stress creativity and imagination in everything we do.
- We make an unusual effort to identify and recruit the very best person for every job.
- We offer our people the opportunity to move ahead more rapidly than possible at most other places.
- We stress teamwork in everything we do.
- The dedication of our people to the firm and the intense effort they give their jobs are greater than one finds in most other organizations.
- We consider our size an asset that we try hard to preserve.
- We constantly strive to anticipate the rapidly changing needs of our clients and to develop new services to meet those needs.
- We regularly receive confidential information as part of our normal client relationships.
- Our business is highly competitive, and we aggressively seek to expand our client relationships.
- Integrity and honesty are at the heart of our business.
- Our client's interests always come first.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Choose 2-3 business principles that are most important to you, and be prepared to discuss how these principles align with those of Goldman Sachs. This question presents an excellent opportunity to be a storyteller. Consider including specific details of how you have put these beliefs into practice.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have taken the time to study Goldman Sach's 14 Business Principles. I appreciate all 14 principles, yet there are 3 that stand out the most to me as aligning with my professional values. The first is taking great pride in my professional work. My leaders consistently comment on the high quality of my work and that I can always be relied upon to deliver work free of errors. I also resonate with Goldman Sach's statement that integrity and honesty must be at the heart of everything we do. Honesty is at the core of who I am and the decisions that I make. I take pride in knowing that my integrity in this industry has never been compromised or questioned. Last, my clients always come first, as do the clients at Goldman Sachs. I make myself readily available to my clients and actively make decisions in their best interests. Should Goldman Sachs choose to hire me, I will wholeheartedly embody the organization's business principles and live out these promises to my clients every day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
17. Do you consider yourself a leader or a follower?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to hire people who work well on a team, are coachable, and have the qualities to lead others. Regardless of whether the job is a leadership role or not, the goal of your response is to show the hiring authorities that your approach to being a leader and a team player will be a fit for their existing team.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
You may not have held a significant leadership role; however, you can still consider yourself a leader. Rather than thinking about this question one-dimensionally, consider that this query refers to your character and nature as a leader, not just your practical experience.
Robin Sharma says, "Leadership is not about a title or designation. It's about impact, influence, and inspiration. Impact involves getting results; influence is about spreading the passion you have for your work."
With that said, keep in mind that it is not a negative thing to be a follower. You may not be the person to take charge of a situation or command a room, which is okay! A good follower is good at following directions and working hard to accomplish tasks.
Rodger Adair says, "A follower shares in an influence relationship among leaders and other followers with their intent to support leaders who reflect their mutual purposes." A follower is an incredibly vital role to play at times, as well.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Whether you're applying to a leadership role with Goldman Sachs or not, you'll want to mention some of your strengths as a leader and a follower.
Perhaps you have led a club at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. At the same time, maybe you have been an exceptional team player who readily takes guidance and learns well from others. Your response should show the hiring managers that you have a natural ability to lead others while also being a reliable team player.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have natural leadership tendencies; however, I am easy to coach and mentor at the same time. In my previous position, I managed a small team of administrators. As an Analyst, I collaborate with and encourage my team without being in an official management position. Should I be offered a leadership opportunity with Goldman Sachs, I will lead my team members by example. I will guide with respect and foster a collaborative environment where all ideas are encouraged. The beauty of being a true leader is that I don't need to be in an official management position to exude leadership qualities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
18. Describe your work ethic.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants a clear idea of what drives you to do the right thing in the workplace. The goal of your response is to show the hiring managers that your moral principles and ethics will be a match for the company.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Work ethic describes the moral principles that you apply to your work. When Goldman Sachs asks about your work ethic in a HireVue interview, they are looking for specific wording to which they can relate.
Goldman Sachs has four core values:
- Client Service
- Excellence
- Integrity
- Partnership
When you read the company's job posting, check for the mention of particular principles and values. When you respond, clearly outline how those principles align with your work values.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
After outlining your work ethic, share an example of when you demonstrated those characteristics and traits in the workplace. Storytelling impacts the hiring managers because it provides evidence of your ethics and personal character.
If you want to tell a story about your ethics in action, you can form one using the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am a very dedicated and loyal employee. On the Goldman Sachs website, I saw that the organization values Client Service, Excellence, Integrity, and Partnership. My work ethic aligns with these values. I work hard for my employer every day and deliver excellent client service. For instance, in my current role, I am often the last to leave because I am committed to returning every client's voicemail and email before I leave for the day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
19. Why should Goldman Sachs hire you?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to hire the person they believe will help them solve a problem or a pain point. The goal of your response is to spotlight how you will solve the company or department's most significant needs and position yourself as the top choice candidate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
The finance and investments industry is highly competitive and firms often find themselves competing for top talent. Yet, Goldman Sachs is incredibly discerning regarding the type of people they hire. Goldman Sachs states on their careers site, "We look for experienced professionals with a passion for excellence who believe in the power of the team, integrity, and leadership."
Your response should be original and unique and also speak to the traits that Goldman Sachs' hiring managers look for when choosing team members.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
First, think about your best skills and qualifications. Ponder on a mix of hard skills and soft skills.
- Hard skills: Specific knowledge gained through training and education.
- Soft skills: Traits you possess, such as emotional intelligence and sociability.
If you can't think of ways you stand out, ask a few trusted friends, family members, or coworkers what sets you apart from others. Their observations may be helpful. If you already know your stand-out skills, that's great! Either way, don't be afraid to brag about yourself a bit. In an interview, you are your greatest advocate.
Also, take your time reviewing the job description. It's essential to approach this question with less focus on your needs and more on Goldman Sachs' needs. Looking at the job description or job posting for the role, you can quickly dissect what the hiring managers are looking for in a candidate. Once you know the company/department's primary needs, you can frame a precise answer to this question.
There are some simple ways to ensure that your answer stands out from other candidates:
- Avoid giving a resume review. Your response should highlight the best reasons why your achievements, skills, and characteristics are a match for Goldman Sachs' most pressing needs. Provide a snapshot, not a complete biography.
- Think about value. Think of how you will add value to Goldman Sachs in the years to come. Help the hiring managers to picture you with the company for years to come.
- Sprinkle in achievements. Mentioning specific numbers, percentages, awards, and accolades is an excellent way to grab the hiring manager's attention. These bits of 'juicy information' will make you a memorable candidate.
- Tell a story. Psychology tells us that offering a compelling, relatable story makes us more memorable and persuasive. Some studies show that telling a story makes us 22X more memorable. If you could be 22X more memorable than the next candidate, think of the impact it could make on your interview outcome!
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"The Accounting Manager job posting mentions requiring an accountant with experience in audits and risk management. Having worked as a Senior Accountant for the past fifteen years, I've developed these skills and more. I am a Certified Accountant and am currently earning a certification in Internal Auditing. Should Goldman Sachs choose to hire me, I will work tirelessly while applying this knowledge and experience to meet your risk management needs."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
20. Take a moment to introduce yourself.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs may use this question as an icebreaker to start the interview. The way you answer this question can help determine the flow of your discussion or even the direction your interviewer takes with subsequent interview questions. The goal of your response is to give the hiring managers a glimpse into who you are as it relates to the job opportunity. You also want to spotlight the factors that make you the best candidate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
A HireVue interview may not always ask the question 'Take a moment to introduce yourself' using this exact wording. Other forms of asking this question include:
- Take a couple of minutes to talk about your career journey.
- Please walk us through your resume.
- Talk to us about your career.
- Take us through an overview of your professional background.
When answering queries of this nature, there are a few things to consider:
- Keep your answer work relevant. Keep your points job-related as much as possible. You can discuss competitive sports, educational achievements, or volunteer work if you are new to your career.
- Avoid overly personal statements. You can add a splash of personal information; however, choose 'I love to read science fiction books' versus 'I was recently diagnosed with...'
- Be sure to qualify yourself. To qualify yourself means to add in a sentence or two regarding your strengths and why you are a good match for the role. Generally speaking, you can fit this into the 'Future' portion of your response.
- Remember to talk about your goals. It is essential to discuss what you want to achieve in your career and how the interviewing company fits into those goals.
- Sprinkle in some achievements. Interviewers love to hear quantifiable statements, including numbers, percentages, and measurable accomplishments. For instance, rather than saying, 'I am the best salesperson,' you could say, 'I was awarded Top Sales Rep for three consecutive months.'
- Show your passion for the company's mission. Try bringing in words from the company's job description, vision statement, or core values. Show the interviewer that your goals align with the company.
- Practice your response. You will want to avoid sounding robotic or rehearsed; however, the more you practice the Past, Present, Future framework, the easier it will become to develop a natural-sounding response.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
The Past, Present, Future framework can help you build a memorable answer to questions that ask you to review your resume, talk about your background, or introduce yourself. This is a brief breakdown of how to apply this approach:
- Past: Discuss how you got to where you are today.
- Present: Paint a picture of what you are currently doing.
- Future: Discuss what you are seeking for your future, and qualify how a career with Goldman Sachs aligns with these goals.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"(Past) I am thrilled to have had the privilege to raise my children for the past ten years. Although being a stay-at-home parent took me out of the traditional workforce, I kept myself busy and relevant in many ways. (Present) Currently, I volunteer for the Parent-Teacher Association, where I facilitate the building of healthy relationships between parents, teachers, and schools. However, as my kids get older and more independent, I find myself seeking more. (Future) I have developed exceptional skills in recruiting volunteers, giving presentations, managing documentation, problem-solving on the fly, and persuading others to collaborate. These skills align with the qualities Goldman Sachs seeks for this Team Assistant opportunity. I am ready to step into the next phase of my career and would be happy to apply these skills with this esteemed organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
21. What are your long-term career plans?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to understand how their job opportunity fits your long-term career plans. The goal of your response is to show the hiring authorities that your longer-term career desires align with what the company can offer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
The hiring managers at Goldman Sachs want assurance that you see yourself working for the company long-term. They also want evidence that your career goals match what the company can offer you now and years into the future.
When hearing your response, the decision-makers should feel confident that Goldman Sachs can support you and your career desires now and into the future. If you're unsure of what qualifies as a long-term career goal, consider a few of these examples:
- Earning a degree or upgrading your existing education
- Growing a network of followers through consistent thought leadership
- Changing careers to a new industry that excites you
- Figuring out your ultimate dream job and taking action steps to get there
There are a few pitfalls to avoid when answering this question:
- Giving an unrealistic response. For instance, "My long-term goal is to work my way up the ladder from Analyst to becoming the next CEO of Goldman Sachs."
- Giving a response that's unrelated to the job. For instance, "My long-term l is to live overseas teaching English."
- Giving an answer that shows a lack of preparedness. For instance, "I'm not sure where I'd like to be in the long term. I mean, I definitely don't know the future."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
The decision-makers at Goldman Sachs want to be clear on how this job fits your long-term goals. Showing personal and professional clarity is the key to a great answer.
Here is a simple framework to help you form a response:
"In the long term, I would like to (insert your goal). So far, I have (describe the action steps you've taken so far). To meet this goal, I plan to (discuss the action steps you plan to take)."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In the long term, I would like to be a thought leader in the investment banking sector. I plan to become even more well-connected and trusted regarding the work and results that I deliver to my clients. To achieve this goal, I will take on every continued education opportunity presented to me with full enthusiasm. I plan to learn everything that I can from my leaders at Goldman Sachs and have already begun to seek a mentor."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
22. What are your short-term career goals?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to understand how their job opportunity fits your short-term career goals. The goal of your response is to show the hiring authorities that your immediate and near-future career desires align with what the company and the role can offer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Short-term career goals are targets that you believe will help you achieve your long-term career objectives. They are achievable and meant to keep you motivated on your journey to your larger, long-term goals. They should help you meet specific work-related objectives over a shorter period, perhaps in 12 months or less.
Having clarity on your short-term goals is the key to delivering a memorable response. If you're unsure of what qualifies as a short-term goal, consider a few of these examples:
- Completing a new certification, workshop, or course
- Improving soft skills such as communication or networking
- Improving hard skills such as becoming a power user in a particular program
- Reading more business books related to your industry or profession
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
When discussing short-term career goals, be sure that these goals are clear and related to the job opportunity. You can break down your response using this simple framework:
"In the short term, I would like to (insert an achievable goal). So far, I have (describe the action steps you've taken so far). To meet this goal, I plan to (discuss the action steps you plan to take)."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have worked as a Finance Analyst for eight years now and have set my sights on earning a promotion to Finance Manager. I have committed to upskilling my mentorship and leadership abilities to achieve this short-term goal. I am taking an online course called 'Personality Types at Work,' provided by the University of Florida. My natural interpersonal skills helped me develop meaningful relationships with my peers. Now I'd like to learn more about personality types so that I can be an impactful leader when the opportunity arises. I understand that Goldman Sachs emphasizes the growth and development of its team members, and I look forward to achieving more leadership and mentorship-related goals with the company."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Discovery
23. Why are you looking for a new opportunity?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to understand the circumstances that sparked the desire to leave your current or most recent position. The goal of your response is to show that you intend to move forward in your career with intention and thoughtfulness.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
As much as a hiring manager understands the desire to seek new work, the question about your motivation remains. When building your answer, avoid being too vague, speaking negatively about your current or most recent position, or giving a cliche response.
- A vague response sounds like, "My current position is no longer a fit." Instead, help the decision-makers feel assured that the hiring company, and this new role, will meet your long-term desires. Suppose you are employed and looking for a fresh opportunity. In that case, the hiring authority will want to know precisely how this job at Goldman Sachs differs from the one you want to leave.
- A negative response sounds like, "My current company has a toxic work environment, and my boss is awful." Even if a statement about a toxic environment or a bad boss may be true, it's best to keep that information to yourself and focus on the future. Think about what you want that you are not getting now, and how can you flip the delivery of your response into a positive tone.
- A cliche response sounds like, "I am looking for a new job because I need to feel more challenged." Instead, discuss specific challenges that excite you the most. Express that you cannot gain this particular momentum with your current company, and touch on why that is the case. Then talk about why you believe Goldman Sachs can provide the challenges and growth you seek.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
When forming your response, clearly outline how this new opportunity with Goldman Sachs aligns with your professional goals. Make the connection between your desires and how the company will benefit from choosing you.
Try building your response using this 4-step framework:
1. Set up the situation and mention the challenges you faced/currently face.
2. Outline the positive actions you took/have taken to overcome these challenges.
3. Highlight the transferable skills you have developed despite the situation.
4. Discuss the benefits of these transferable skills and provide measurable examples of how these skills will ensure your success in this new role.
Keeping an opportunity mindset, you can see why providing an opportunity-related response is the most effective approach.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Accepting my most recent job was a misstep; however, I learned some important lessons from this experience. Last year, I joined Company XYZ - a start-up fintech company with a fantastic business idea. Unfortunately, the overall framework and business strategy did not match the reality of the work environment. I remained in the role for one year before giving my notice and staying on to help train my replacement. Now, I am approaching my next move with more care, ensuring that I make a fully informed decision. I am passionate about serving my employer and generating growth. When I learned that Goldman Sachs had this opening, I was thrilled. I understand that this position focuses on strategic growth and client satisfaction. I appreciate that Goldman Sachs' values include 'Integrity' - a factor that aligns with the values I bring to my personal and professional life."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Educational
24. How has your education prepared you for this role with Goldman Sachs?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know how your education or training has prepared you to succeed in the job. The goal of your response is to highlight your education and training. Then, connect the knowledge you gained and how you will apply that knowledge to succeed in the role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
There are many ways to gain education, so avoid underestimating the training you've received by stating that you don't have any education to discuss. Whether formal (college, university courses, or career training modules) or informal education (self-learning, self-guided courses), Goldman Sachs wants assurance that you have the training and knowledge required to do the job successfully.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Your answer should assure the hiring manager that you have the skills and training to fulfill the role's duties and exceed expectations. Many of the skills we learn throughout our education are helpful for any situation. People skills and teamwork will help you to interact with your new coworkers. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills will help you analyze information, notice details, and deal with problems on the job.
If you have work experience, focus your answer on how your coursework and training have contributed to your career success so far. If you are interviewing for your first position, you can talk about how your education will help you to be successful in meeting specific job requirements outlined in Goldman Sachs' job posting.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My degree has equipped me well. I did a deep dive into collecting data, analyzing it, and writing reports based on my findings through my dissertation. Outside of my degree, I take part in mentoring and volunteering opportunities. These experiences have evolved my ability to communicate effectively and have improved my listening skills."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
General
25. Do you have any questions for the hiring team at Goldman Sachs?
The Goal
At the end of your HireVue interview, Goldman Sachs will provide you with the opportunity to ask questions about the role, the team, and the company. The goal of your response is to show that you have put thought and care into the interview process and have come up with a couple of highly thoughtful and insightful questions for their team.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Be sure to avoid obvious questions that would be very easy for you to answer through simple research. For example, avoid questions like how many years the company has been around or what industry they operate in. You should already know the answer to questions like those from your research.
With the right amount of preparation, you could think of dozens of appropriate and helpful questions to show the hiring managers that you are interested in the job and engaged in the interview process. Going into your HireVue interview with insightful questions will show Goldman Sachs that you have put thought and care into your interview prep.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
There are endless topics to approach when asking questions at the end of a HireVue interview. It's essential, however, to remain on topic and professional. Consider asking questions related to:
- The job and your day-to-day activities
- The team/department you will be joining
- The training and tools you will receive
- The departments' performance expectations
- The company/departments' short or long-term goals and objectives
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"How does this department set clear goals and targets for its team members? How can I begin to prepare for success at Goldman Sachs? Is there anything in my background that I can clarify for the hiring team?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
General
26. What makes Goldman Sachs different from others in the investment banking and finance industry?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants you to outline what you believe is the company's unique selling point. The goal of your response is to show the hiring managers that you have researched the organization and that you are excited about what differentiates Goldman Sachs from other potential employers in the investment banking and finance industry.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Before your interview, take some time to learn more about Goldman Sachs' Business Principles. These principles are what makes the company unique. They include:
- Our assets are our people, capital, and reputation.
- Our goal is to provide superior returns to our shareholders.
- We take great pride in the professional quality of our work.
- We stress creativity and imagination in everything we do.
- We make an unusual effort to identify and recruit the very best person for every job.
- We offer our people the opportunity to move ahead more rapidly than possible at most other places.
- We stress teamwork in everything we do.
- The dedication of our people to the firm and the intense effort they give their jobs are greater than one finds in most other organizations.
- We consider our size an asset that we try hard to preserve.
- We constantly strive to anticipate the rapidly changing needs of our clients and to develop new services to meet those needs.
- We regularly receive confidential information as part of our normal client relationships.
- Our business is highly competitive, and we aggressively seek to expand our client relationships.
- Integrity and honesty are at the heart of our business.
- Our client's interests always come first.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
How you answer this question will speak directly to how well you have researched Goldman Sachs before attending your interview. Take a look at the company website and its news section. You can also check out Google and see if the company is trending on any hot industry topics.
When speaking about what makes Goldman Sachs different from its competitors, you do not need to go into a significant amount of detail on the information that you find. Give enough to show the hiring managers that you pay attention to their organization's accomplishments and understand what sets them apart.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"While preparing for this interview, I saw that Goldman Sachs has made significant strides in the past 12 months in efforts to close the gender investing gap. I appreciate that Goldman Sachs has identified that women-owned businesses often do not get the investments they deserve. I was thrilled to read about the company's initiative to invest millions into private, late-stage, women-founded, women-owned, or women-led companies. This example is just one of many that set Goldman Sacha apart from its competitors and why I am eager to join this thoughtful organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Salary
27. What are your compensation expectations?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs would like an idea of what you want to see in a competitive job offer. The goal of your response is to show the hiring managers that you know the compensation you're looking for and that you're ready to support your compensation request with research and facts.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Overall, be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary-based questions arise. For you, salary may not be the most crucial factor. In addition to compensation, there are many other factors in a fulfilling career. These other factors may include:
- Work/life balance
- Amount of travel required
- Overall medical and health benefits
- Additional perks such as car allowance, cell allowance, or a spending account
- Your level of interest in the industry
- The amount of vacation time offered
- The type of clients you would be working with
- The office location
- Future career growth opportunities
- The size of your new team or department
- The overall company culture
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Before forming your ask, take your time to list the most important factors to you when considering a new job. Then, do your research. You'll want to find answers to a few essential questions:
- How competitive is the job market for this role
- What's the market range for this kind of role in the finance industry
- Does compensation vary geographically
- What financial organizations pay more than Goldman Sachs
- Does Goldman Sachs have a reputation for paying above-market value
When you deliver your compensation ask, lean on your skills and accomplishments as justification. It's compelling for a hiring manager to hear about your achievements vs. only saying that you're worth every penny because that's the going range in the industry.
If you are providing Goldman Sachs with precise compensation numbers, offer a range so that you leave room to negotiate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am currently making $98,000 per year with two bonus opportunities based on company profits. I am looking for a compensation plan aligned with the role that provides an opportunity for growth. I look forward to discussing the details of this role so that we can determine a fair compensation plan."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Scenario
28. If you witnessed a coworker being dishonest, what would you do?
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to know that you are an honest and trustworthy employee. The goal of your response is to provide evidence that you bring integrity to the workplace and that you are unafraid to have uncomfortable conversations.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Goldman Sachs has four core values, and one is 'Integrity.' The company states: "We hold ourselves accountable to the highest ethical standards, insisting on transparency and vigilance from our people as we learn from our experiences and make decisions that instill a sense of purpose and pride in our firm."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Goldman Sachs operates in a highly sensitive sector where making ethical decisions and building trustworthy relationships are core to success. The company needs to make sure that they hire honest and reliable people.
Since this question is phrased as, 'What would you do...,' you can respond hypothetically. The Situation, Solution, Benefit formula is helpful in this instance.
Step 1) Situation: Express your understanding of the hypothetical situation (your coworker being dishonest).
Step 2) Solution: Outline the solution you would introduce if you encountered dishonesty in the workplace.
Step 3) Benefit: Highlight how your approach to confronting dishonesty will benefit Goldman Sachs when they hire you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Goldman Sachs leads with purpose and pride. I take pride in my work and would not tolerate dishonesty since it interferes with company goals and reputation. With a focus on honesty and transparency, I would feel obligated to report a coworker who was being dishonest. Of course, I would refer to any policy or guidelines available and speak to my leader to ensure that I appropriately handle the situation. I would desire to help bring a resolution without escalating the situation or introducing new conflict. One of Goldman Sachs' core values is Integrity, and this is a value that I take seriously. If hired, I will hold myself and my peers accountable to the highest ethical standards."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Situational
29. Tell us about a time when you disagreed with a coworker.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs wants to gain an understanding of your conflict resolution skills. The goal of your response is to provide evidence that you can handle and resolve conflict in a professional manner that aligns with the company culture.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Conflict happens in any workplace, so the goal of your response is not to deny conflict. Instead, it's to show that you can move through conflict in a constructive way.
Finding common ground with a coworker, despite disagreeing with them, shows hiring managers that your desire to collaborate is stronger than your need to be correct. Overcoming disagreements in the workplace also highlights your ability to problem-solve while facing a difference of opinion.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
Even though you may have great relationships with your coworkers, there will be times when you don't 100% agree. Think of a conflict or disagreement you had with a coworker where you responded professionally and worked toward a solution.
When asked to 'Talk about a time when...,' it's important to remember that the hiring managers are looking for a specific story-based example that highlights your professional behavior in challenging interpersonal situations.
Using the STAR interview method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), you can form an easy-to-follow and engaging story-based response.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"(Situation) Last year, my Finance Director and I disagreed on the pending termination of one of my team members. (Task) As a manager, my philosophy is to ensure that I have trained and coached my team members to the best of my ability before I ever consider terminating them. (Action) I expressed my desire to spend additional time training this team member. I mentioned that it would be more costly for the company to replace this person than invest in additional training. The Finance Director finally agreed that if the team member missed their targets for another 30 days, we would move forward with termination. After coming to a middle ground, I created a plan to spend five additional hours per week training this team member for three weeks. (Result) Remarkably, his performance improved by over 40%! This team member is still with us and often lands on our divisions' monthly Top 10 list for client satisfaction and performance. Because I respectfully disagreed with the Finance Director and stated my case with facts rather than emotion, we were able to move past the disagreement with ease."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Teamwork
30. Discuss a time when you contributed to a team effort.
The Goal
Goldman Sachs would like to know more about your desire and willingness to contribute to team-based efforts. The goal of your response is to outline the role that you take in a team and highlight how your approach to teamwork is a fit for the company and the hiring department.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
Pro Tip
Goldman Sachs has four core values:
1. Client Service
2. Excellence
3. Integrity
4. Partnership
When you form your response, be sure to touch on the core value of Partnership. Goldman Sachs describes this value by stating: "We prioritize collaboration and value diversity, creating a culture that fosters inclusiveness, teamwork, and an entrepreneurial mindset in the pursuit of professional and personal excellence."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
How to Answer
This question presents the opportunity for you to be a storyteller. Using the STAR method, form an engaging story-based response that showcases your proudest accomplishment. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Use a solid and compelling example of your willingness and desire to be a team contributor. Be as specific as you can while remaining concise and on topic. Your answer should include a story of a time when you contributed to a team effort related to this position. Be sure to describe a recent scenario.
At the end of your response, explain how your teamwork abilities will ensure your success and fit with this team and the Goldman Sachs culture of Partnership.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
What You Need to Know
Here is some HireVue interview advice from Goldman Sachs recruiters:
- Treat this interview like a conversation and avoid over-thinking responses that sound too formal or rehearsed.
- Be concise yet specific. Be sure to paint a full picture and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the total response time.
- Breathe. Be yourself. We'd rather see your personality come through naturally than hear you speed read through your accomplishments.
The Goldman Sachs HireVue interview takes an average of 30 minutes to complete. The video interview typically includes 3-5 questions. You will have 30 seconds to prepare a response and 2 minutes to answer each question.
In its interview prep resources, Goldman Sachs states that they offer unlimited practice rounds so you can submit the response that you feel most confident sending forward.
It's important to note that the Hirevue platform stops recording as soon as 2 minutes are up, so it's better to run under time than overtime.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"(Situation) As Finance Manager with Company XYZ, my team must successfully collaborate during our busy year-end season. We put in overtime shifts and bring our clients' books to a close together as one cohesive team. (Task) During year-end, I take the role of the project lead. (Action) I work diligently to ensure streamlined processes and that each team member feels like a valued contributor. My approach during these high-demand times is to encourage the team to deliver their best work while being a helpful resource to their team members. (Result) This year, our team completed its year-end work with such incredible efficiency that we shaved an entire day off our schedule. The experience was nearly flawless. Team conflict was minimal, despite the mental strain everyone felt. Goldman Sachs lists Partnership as one of its core values. If hired, I will prioritize collaboration and actively contribute to the culture of inclusiveness and teamwork."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 2nd, 2022