Goldman Sachs CEO Solomon Shares Father-Inspired Approach to Big Decisions

Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon shared his approach to big decisions and AI adoption in a recent town hall meeting with interns. The method, which he credits to his father's advice, involves taking time to consider alternative perspectives before making a choice. He advocates for 'going slow' and forcing oneself to think more deeply about potential outcomes.

Solomon used the example of a hypothetical decision to turn left while running down the road. His father would encourage him to pause and think critically about why turning left was a better option than right, rather than simply relying on instinct. This approach has served Solomon well in his career, including during his nearly decade-long tenure at Bear Stearns before joining Goldman in 1999.

When it comes to AI, Solomon encourages interns to 'try to understand what these things do and don't do' and to challenge the conventional wisdom. He views AI as a tool that can accelerate work, but ultimately relies on human judgment to make decisions. This approach is reflected in Goldman's own research estimating that up to 25% of current U.S. working hours could be automated within a decade.