Why Goldman Sachs?
There are many reasons why this question may be asked. How you answer could inform them of whether you want to work for their firm, or are trying to land any job anywhere. There are many high-end wealth management firms you could work for, and Goldman Sachs wants to know why they are the standout employer for you. The goal of your response is to provide a compelling answer that highlights what excites you about this specific company and the opportunity. This will help them determine your fit for their teams and culture.
Spend some time determining what it is about their culture, environment, and career advancement opportunities that appeal to you most. Also, when answering, take care to not roll answers into this question, which might be asked later on in the interview set, such as whether you have applied to any of their competitors. This will help you seem prepared for each question as it comes, keep your answers original, and keep you from sounding redundant.
Goldman Sachs' recruiters offer the following advice: "Ask all the questions. Where do you want to start your career? You do need to just step back and think, 'Where am I going to want to start my career as a professional and how is that going to get me to where I want to be?' You want to make an informed, holistic decision. Be sure to paint a full picture, and answer all parts of the question, but you don't need to use the full response time. If you're able to finish early, just move on to the next question."
So, genuinely consider why you want to work for Goldman Sachs and take the time to carve out the unique reasons that align with your goals. A surface reason would be because you know someone who works there. A compelling reason is that Goldman Sachs' business principles resonate with you. So, before your interview, take some time to learn more about Goldman Sachs' core values, working environment, culture, and their business principles.
"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."
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