Hello!
I have quoted a post below in which I previously discussed this question. I would try to include personal experiences where you can - think about what unique attributes you have due to your experiences that would make you a good fit for the firm, and how they would help you contribute to its success. I would also aim to display the traits and qualities that CMS value through these experiences, to make your answer personal and tailored to the firm!
Hey!
That's a great question, and it can definitely feel open-ended! If I was approaching this question, I would think about it in two ways:
1. Personal Contribution - what unique strengths, experiences, or insights would you bring to the firm? For example, would you help foster collaboration, or do you bring in a global outlook?
2. Overall Impact - how does your contribution tie into CMS's wider goals and values? If the firm has a focus on innovation, you might discuss wanting to support the firm in delivering innovative solutions to clients.
It doesn't have to be something 'grand' - you could even focus on how you'd like to make a positive difference in your team or with clients, which shows self-awareness and motivation. I would make sure to link your answer back to both your personal qualities and CMS's culture.
Your answer could follow a structure such as:
1. Start with your motivation - why CMS? What about the firm has motivated you to apply there?
2. Discuss your strengths - highlight the qualities and skills that you gained from previous experiences that would allow you to make an impact.
3. Link this to the impact - show how these strengths translate into a positive contribution at CMS. This could be on a team level (e.g. supporting colleagues), on a client level (e.g. innovative thinking), or on a firm-wide level (e.g. championing diversity or sustainability).
4. Conclude - tie it back to the kind of professional you hope to become at CMS and the difference you'd like to make in the long run.
I hope that helps
