Preparing for the Second Round of Interviews with Goldman Sachs Technology Division

Overview of the Second Round Interviews

The second round of interviews for the technology division at Goldman Sachs in London consists of 1 technical interview and 2 competency-based interviews. This article will guide you through each aspect of the interview process, providing key insights and tips to help you prepare effectively.

The Technical Interview

The technical interview is where your knowledge and skills will be rigorously tested. Here are the key points to focus on:

Cover Your CV Comprehensively: You need to be thoroughly familiar with all the technical details and projects mentioned on your resume. Be ready to describe them in depth. Logical Problem Solving: Be prepared to tackle common logical problem-solving exercises. Problems may revolve around lists, hash tables, linked lists, and trees. These are fundamental data structures that you should be very comfortable with. OOP and Software Patterns: Knowledge of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) and software design patterns will be beneficial. Being familiar with these concepts can help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills.

The Competency-Based Interviews

In the competency-based interviews, the focus shifts to your interpersonal skills and leadership qualities. Here’s how to approach these interviews:

Describe Yourself in Different Contexts: Be prepared to describe yourself in various roles, such as a team leader. Provide specific examples of how you have handled situations in the past, including times when you have resolved conflicts within a team. Stay Prepared with Common Questions: Research common interview questions and think about what your answers would be. Bring to mind examples that you can use to support your responses. Stay Informed: Keep up with recent news and ensure you demonstrate your interest in the finance industry. Read the Goldman Sachs website for insights into the company's goals and current projects, and be ready to discuss why you want to work there.

General Advice and Tips

Regardless of the division, Goldman Sachs interviews are designed to test your overall expertise and fit within the organization. Here are some general tips to help you succeed:

Show Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your knowledge of general computer science concepts. Be prepared to answer questions about common topics like reversing a linked list or SQL queries. Work Ethic and Communication: Highlight your work ethic and communication skills. Highlight how you are a pleasant and collaborative person to work with. Professionalism and Enthusiasm: Be professional and enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with Goldman Sachs. The interview is as much about you as it is about Goldman Sachs, so be personable and engaged.

Conclusion

Preparing for the second round of interviews with the technology division at Goldman Sachs requires a comprehensive approach. By focusing on both technical and soft skills, you can increase your chances of success. Remember, the goal is to showcase your knowledge, adaptability, and passion for technology and finance.