Succeeding On The Goldman Sachs Application: Advice From A Current Analyst
Brought to you by PeerGrid.
My Background
I studied Accounting and Finance at the University of Bath on a four year course. In my penultimate year I had a year in industry. Together with this I go into coding, eventually delving into the Python coding language. ‘Pythonising’ spreadsheets is something I really enjoyed. Therefore, in my penultimate year I began applying for financial roles where such skills would be useful. Luckily, my application was accepted by the Quantitative Goldman Sachs team.
Application Process
I applied through the summer internship route and got an offer from there.
Specifically, the application was for the Goldman Sachs Asset Management division. From what I can remember the application asked me to write 400 words on:
Why Goldman Sachs Asset Management?
Why Goldman Sachs?
Why you?
Once I got accepted after this I then had to do a self-recorded video interview. I was asked whether I preferred the client or analytical side of asset management. Goldman Sachs then delegated me to be interviewed by the specific side they aligned me with most.
With regards to experience, I found that you could learn a lot of the things you have to do on the job as long as you:
Practice
Have enthusiasm
Work on it
Practical exposure to these fields are the best teachers.
My Role
My role as a Quantitative Investment Strategies Analyst is to bridge the gap between portfolio managers and sales (those who bring clients/pitch products). I deal with the provision of information for potential and existing clients. This involves knowing about products and educating clients. I can handle up to 15, 20, 30 thousand stocks. There is an ability to make systematic judgment - which I found very interesting. It involves viewing a company as a distant object which you then subject to analysis.
Portfolio managers merge with sales and plans, basically becoming a product specialist. Speaking and networking with clients is involved. However, mathematical experience is needed, with coding adding as a significant help for the quantitative side of things. Therefore, I thought asset management was really cool as something new is always happening.
The Importance Of Being Commercially Aware
Keeping commercially aware is very important. I found that keeping up to date with commercial affairs was very helpful. At the very least I would keep up with the top highlights. It is one thing to read the news, another to actually reflect on it.
If you are to get accepted to an interview with Goldman Sachs, do not go thinking that they are trying to catch you out. They obviously like you from your application, hence the reason why you would have been invited to interview. What is important is reinforcing how previous experience has led to the development of your skill set. If you have minimal experience, being commercially aware will put you in a good position. Commercial awareness demonstrates your interest in the field and how you choose to go beyond the traditional scope of education and extracurricular.
By the Goldman Sachs PeerGrid event on 10 February 2022.