Talk about a time you successfully contributed to a team goal. Describe the situation, the steps you took, and the outcome.
Another factor any hiring manager has to take into consideration is how well a candidate will get along with the rest of the teams. Therefore, the AI assessment models will sort their findings into different categories. The algorithm will analyze the candidate's attributes, such as composure, compassion, dependability, adaptability, willingness to learn, drive for results, initiative, and safety and compliance. One category is how well a candidate works with others. It will also measure their capacity for building relationships, working collaboratively, and investing in the growth of their coworkers and teams. Then, it will detail in the candidate's insights report how aligned you are with their culture.
It is worth mentioning here that one of their business principles centers around teamwork. "We stress teamwork in everything we do. While individual creativity is always encouraged, we have found that team effort often produces the best results. We have no room for those who put their personal interests ahead of the interests of the firm and its clients."
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."
As some of Goldman Sachs' recruiters advise, "Give us examples of teamwork. Give us examples of problem solving and critical thinking. You're doing your due diligence on the research and the team will appreciate that as well." So, 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.
So, use a solid and compelling example of your willingness and desire to be a team contributor. 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.
"(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."
Unlock all 30 Goldman Sachs questions
Master the digital interview format that Goldman Sachs uses to screen candidates.
Get Started