It is important to understand the aims of your recruiter as well as the challenges their job presents. On Goldman Sachs' career site, one of their recruiters asks, "Have you ever wondered what recruiters are really thinking as they review your resume?" They later detail that what they love is "when I am able to find the information I am looking for really easily." So do what you can to make their job easier.

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.

"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."

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, and 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.