Goldman Sachs is reportedly discerning regarding who they hire. So, your response should be original and unique, while also aligning yourself with the traits their hiring managers look for when choosing team members. As they state 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."

So, take advantage of every leading edge you have. Also, make your answers actionable by showcasing the research you've done to prepare for your interview. For example, in the videos on their careers site, their recruiters offer the following advice: "We're looking for anyone who wants to be part of the firm. Don't be afraid to bring up experiences that make you who you are." Also, within their business principles, they state: "We make an unusual effort to identify and recruit the very best person for every job. Although our activities are measured in billions of dollars, we select our people one by one. In a service business, we know that without the best people, we cannot be the best firm."

First, think about your best skills and qualifications. Ponder on a mix of your 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 standout 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 recap. 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 22 times more memorable. If you could be 22 times more memorable than the next candidate, think of the impact it could make on your interview outcome!

"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."