Finance Cover Letter Example (w/ Templates for 2024)

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You can navigate the landscape of numbers, investments, and economic intricacies.

You’re a financial pro, and you’ve got the expertise to prove it.

But there's just one thing standing between you and a successful job application – your cover letter.

Writing a compelling finance cover letter can feel more complicated than analyzing stock market trends. You might find yourself paralyzed with no idea how to prove your financial prowess.

Don’t worry! We’re here to guide you through it.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

  • What an Amazing Finance Cover Letter Looks Like
  • 5 Steps to Writing a Job-Winning Finance Cover Letter

3 Essential Finance Cover Letter Tips

Finance cover letter example.

Finance Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Finance Cover Letter

Now that you know what a great cover letter looks like, you're all set to write your own !

Just follow these straightforward steps:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Start your finance cover letter by creating a header for your contact details, the same as on your resume .

Here's what you should have in there:

  • First and Last Name. Make sure your full name is in plain view at the top.
  • Professional Title. Match this with the specific finance role you're after. Hiring managers usually hire for several roles at once, so this will help them notice your application.
  • Email Address. Keep it professional, like a combo of your names. The quirky high school email won't cut it. (e.g.: [email protected] is not a good look, but [email protected] is fine.)
  • Phone Number. Ensure your phone number is accurate since employers need to reach you easily. A missed digit could mean a missed interview.
  • Location. Usually, city and state/country are enough. But if you're open to relocating or working remotely, mention it.
  • Relevant Links (optional). Share your LinkedIn or any other relevant social media that can back up your financial expertise.

Now, let's talk about reaching the hiring manager’s contact information :

  • Company Name. Mention the financial institution you're applying to.
  • Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find it, great! Check the job listing, the company's website, or LinkedIn profile.
  • Hiring Manager's Title. If they've got a fancier title than “Hiring Manager”, such as “Chief Financial Officer”, address them accordingly.
  • Location. City and state/country details are crucial, especially for global firms.
  • Date of Writing (optional). Adding the date you penned your letter gives it a professional touch.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've sorted out your finance cover letter's contact details, it's time to address it properly .

Say goodbye to the generic "To Whom It May Concern."

The right greeting can make a positive impression on the hiring manager and set the tone for your entire finance cover letter.

Start with some research. Check the job ad, the company's website, or their LinkedIn profile to identify the finance department's hiring manager. Find their name and use it.

Be sure to address them professionally. You can use “Ms.” or “Mr.”, followed by their last name. But if you're unsure about their gender or marital status, simply use their full name. For example:

  • Dear Ms. Anderson
  • Dear Emily Anderson

And if you can't find information about the hiring manager or the head of the finance department, address your letter to the department or the company as a whole:

  • Dear Finance Department
  • Dear Finance Hiring Team
  • Dear Human Resources Team
  • Dear Head of Finance

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

As the saying goes, time is money, and hiring managers value time a lot. In fact, it doesn’t take them more than a few seconds to decide if an application is worth reading in detail.

That's why writing a strong introductory paragraph in your finance cover letter is essential. Start by introducing yourself as a professional and clearly stating why you're enthusiastic about the position. Showing your passion for the finance industry or the specific role can instantly capture the hiring manager's attention.

But conducting some research on the company can significantly boost your chances, too. The more insights you gather about the employer, the better you can show them your alignment with their work culture or company goals. This shows that you're not applying randomly; you genuinely have your sights set on this specific opportunity, and you’re ready to put in the work.

Depending on your level of experience, you can also kick off your cover letter with an accomplishment or a skill that makes you an ideal fit for the role. Just make sure that this paragraph isn’t too lengthy. All you need to do is spark the hiring manager's curiosity and encourage them to explore your cover letter further.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The body of your cover letter is where you have to prove you’re the ideal candidate for the position.

But don’t repeat what it says on your finance resume . This is your opportunity to really show your financial prowess and qualifications in a way that leaves a mark. Your mission is to persuade the hiring manager that you're the standout choice among the competition, even if they have similar experience and skills.

So shine a spotlight on any noteworthy achievements you have and use the job advertisement as inspiration.

Tailoring your cover letter to align with the specific job ad is crucial. You should emphasize skills and experiences that resonate with the company's needs. For example, if you're applying for a finance role in a tech-driven firm, focus on your tech-related financial skills rather than more generic experiences in finance.

Be sure to demonstrate your understanding of the company, its financial model, or the intricacies of the finance industry as a whole. If you're well-acquainted with the company's financial products or services, mention it in your cover letter to show how and why your financial expertise aligns seamlessly with the company’s mission and corporate culture.

Lastly, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through your words. Convey your genuine excitement for the position and your confidence in your ability to contribute to the company. Show them that you're not just another candidate but the financial talent that meets all their requirements.

If you need even more inspiration, check out our other cover letter examples !

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

The ending of your finance cover letter is your opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Start closing your finance cover letter by confidently reiterating why you’re the perfect fit for the role and giving a brief recap of your key skills that prove it.

After that, it’s time for a call to action. Encourage the hiring manager to take the next step, whether it's scheduling an interview or exploring your application in more detail. A well-placed call to action can make all the difference and get you closer to your dream job.

Finally, choose an appropriate closing line. And don’t forget to sign your full name underneath. Like so:

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me via the provided email or phone number so that we may further discuss my application. I eagerly await the opportunity to go over how I can help Company X on its mission to success.

Best regards,

And if you're seeking an alternative to "Best regards," consider these options:

  • Warm regards,
  • Respectfully yours,
  • Thank you for your consideration,

Finance Cover Letter Structure

You've got the basics of cover letter writing under your belt!

Now it's time to refine yours with some essential cover letter tips :

#1. Match Your Resume

Clarity is important in the finance industry, and the best place to start with it is on your cover letter.

You have to make sure your finance cover letter’s formatting and layout align with your finance resume as much as possible. This can convey a polished and well-organized image of you as a candidate and make it easier for the hiring manager to identify your application out of the bunch.

So keep your text neatly arranged on the page and maintain uniform font styles and sizes. Pay attention to the page margins and line spacing so your cover letter remains concise and still fits on a single page .

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Feeling overwhelmed?

Just try our resume builder and matching cover letter templates to make crafting your application easier.

Each template is crafted with input from hiring experts worldwide, so they meet all industry standards and look gorgeous.

#2. Mention Skills and Keywords

You don’t want your finance cover letter to come off as generic.

Try to mention as many keywords from the job advertisement as you can. Hiring managers already know what they want from a candidate, so you have to show them you meet all their criteria.

Doing this proves you’ve paid careful attention to the job advertisement, and it also directs hiring managers to the information they care the most about. Just don’t throw in those keywords randomly!

You want to build a narrative that shows your expertise. Focus on the most important skills mentioned in the job ad that match the ones you already have, and explain how they’ve helped you excel at your job.

#3. Add Any Relevant Links

Your finance cover letter should match your resume’s contact information down to a T.

So, if you added any relevant links to one, make sure the other has them, too. Specifically, when it comes to listing personal websites or social media profiles like LinkedIn, hiring managers appreciate it.

This gives them quick and easy access to see your previous work instead of having to circle back to your resume to find a link. They could even connect with you directly on LinkedIn, so this extra touch of accessibility and professionalism can leave a great impression on potential employers.

Key Takeaways

And you’re all set with writing your finance cover letter!

After reading our guide, we trust you’re well-equipped to secure the exact job you have your sights set on.

Before you head off, let’s summarize some main points from our article:

  • Your finance cover letter’s look should match your resume since it shows professionalism, and attention to detail, and makes it easier for the hiring manager to spot your application. Use a resume builder with matching cover letter templates to save time.
  • Keep your contact information factual and professional. You don’t want to use an immature email address from your high school years since it could leave a bad impression.
  • Include any skills and other keywords from the job description in the body of your cover letter. Use them to illustrate how your experience matches what the employer is looking for and to present yourself as an ideal candidate.
  • Wrap up your cover letter with an appropriate closing line, and don’t forget to sign your name at the bottom. This little detail is the bow that ties together a spotless application.

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finance cover letter reddit

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How to Write a Finance Cover Letter

Not all jobs need them, but for those that do, here are some guidelines from morgan stanley’s recruiters on how to write one..

Searching the internet for tips on how to write a cover letter will produce a litany of dos and don’ts: Flex your communication skills, but don’t go over three paragraphs; don’t recite a generic list of skills, but do speak to every requirement in the job description; be professional, but also be personal…the list goes on.

Truth be told, not all jobs need cover letters, but for the times when they’re required, it needn’t be so complicated to get them right.   Our recruiters say that applicants can hit the mark as long as they follow a few basic rules,  and refrain from quoting Shakespeare or likening their job search to Fantine’s demise in Les Miserable. (It happens). 

1. Why You Need One

They provide a missing link between the living-you and the formulaic resume or CV. Your cover letter conveys three important things:

  • You understand what the firm is looking for.
  • You’ve got the skills.
  • You’re articulate.

2. What to Include

Write it like a letter—include your address, Dear Sir/Madam (or better still, the name of the person, if you know who the interviewer is), and make sure to end it with a closing (“Yours faithfully,” etc).

  • First Paragraph: An opening statement that sets out why you’re writing the letter. Begin by stating the position you’re applying for and if you became aware of it by going to a recruiting event.
  • Middle Paragraphs: Two or three paragraphs to explain what attracted you to the type of work, why you’re interested in working for the company, and why you think you’d be a good fit.
  • Last paragraph: Thank the employer and say you’re looking forward to receiving a response.

Wanted: Non-Finance Graduates

5 business communication skills for your career, don’t let these common interview questions trip you up, 3. beware the generic cover letter.

Cover letters  can end up being deal-breakers if  they have mistakes in them, and most mistakes are made when a generic letter is used for every application. You’d be surprised by how many times people forget to switch out the name of one firm for ours. Not only do we know you’re applying elsewhere, but it shows lack of attention to detail.

4. Strike an Authentic Tone

Another reason not to use a generic cover letter: It just doesn’t sound authentic. Writing it from scratch will create  a warmer, more engaging tone—even if it’s just a few paragraphs.

5. No Need to Repeat

Don’t use the cover letter to repeat skills that you’ve already outlined in the resume, which speak specifically to the requirements in the job description. 

6. Make the Most of Your Experiences

Do include  experiences or skills that might not be specifically called for in the job description, but you believe will add to your appeal and help you excel in the role.  Examples could be collaborative, leadership or problem-solving skills from extracurricular activities or previous jobs. Just ensure that they’re truly relevant and compelling, and not a stretch. 

7. Get a Second Opinion

Whatever you end up putting in your cover letter, make sure to check for mistakes. Get someone to proofread your letter for typos, grammatical errors, the wrong firm name, and any Broadway Musical references that might have made their way in.

Good luck! And feel free to reach out to our campus recruiting team members if you have any questions. 

Get Your Career Started At Morgan Stanley

finance cover letter reddit

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What makes a student stand out during campus recruiting season? Morgan Stanley asked some of its leading recruiters, and this is what they had to say.

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How do you know if you're being overly eager? Should summer analysts speak up at meetings? Here are some answers.

finance cover letter reddit

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Investment Banking Cover Letter Template

Free cover letter template to help you break into Investment Banking (IB)

Rohan Arora

Mr. Arora is an experienced private equity investment professional, with experience working across multiple markets. Rohan has a focus in particular on consumer and business services transactions and operational growth. Rohan has also worked at Evercore, where he also spent time in private equity advisory.

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Christopher Haynes

Chris currently works as an investment associate with Ascension Ventures, a strategic healthcare venture fund that invests on behalf of thirteen of the nation's leading health systems with $88 billion in combined operating revenue. Previously, Chris served as an investment analyst with New Holland Capital, a hedge fund-of-funds  asset management  firm with $20 billion under management, and as an investment banking analyst in  SunTrust Robinson Humphrey 's Financial Sponsor Group.

Chris graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and earned a Master of Finance (MSF) from the Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis.

  • Investment Banking Cover Letter Template: Advice From The WSO Community

Why Do Cover Letters Matter?

  • Less Is More For Cover Letters

The Hail Mary Cover Letter

  • WSO Cover Letter Template

Attached at the bottom of this post is the FREE investment banking cover letter template that is sometimes used for WSO cover letter review clients.

We have decided to make it free to help those of you that can't afford a more tailored service .

This cover letter template uses bullets to keep the points succinct and format easy to read .

You'll also notice that the header matches the WSO  investment banking resume template format.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Template

Investment Banking Cover Letter Template: Advice from the WSO Community

Here's what you need to know about the IB cover letters from our community.

CompBanker: The cover letter holds almost no weight, other than to put you at risk for being dinged. Make it very simple, very bland, and just say all the usual things. If you have mistakes in it or make outrageous claims, your cover letter will be circulated and laughed at.

Like @CompBanker said, you won't get the interview with your cover letter .

Your goal for the cover letter isn't to single-handedly land you an interview with your eloquence and grandiose; it's to check the box and make sure it's proper enough that it doesn't get you dinged .

finance cover letter reddit

The Only Program You Need to Land in High Finance Careers

The most comprehensive curriculum and support network to break into high finance.

Less Is More for Cover Letters

Our users shared great input on why 'less is more' when it comes to cover letters.

bkm125: What you really want people to be looking at is the resume. The longer your cover letter is the larger the chance that you'll have a typo or say something stupid. Just tell them what job you're applying for, who you've been in touch with at the firm, and maybe a few sentences about your qualifications and lock up the deal with a solid resume.

finance cover letter reddit

K.I.S.S: Keep It Simple Stupid.

Mention who you've talked to at the firm , your interest in the job, your qualifications , and briefly (very briefly) explain any gaps in your resume .

Avoid excuses , more on this later.

Two or three paragraphs is all you need for that. Any more than that , and you're giving them potential reasons to ding you .

Here's some great advice from @blackice".

blackice: The best thing you can do is name drop people you have talked to. That way I know you have done your homework, and I can ask the person you talked to how your chat was. I think cover letters are better when they are focused on your past work experience as opposed to general and arbitrary sentiments about how you are a "hard worker and team player with a strict attention to detail".

If you've talked to someone at the firm and they'd remember you, DO namedrop them in your cover letter.

finance cover letter reddit

Common Cover Letter Mistakes

Here are some of the usual mistakes candidates make in their cover letter as mentioned by our member @qonnect.me.

This is an example of an excuse in a cover letter:

"I realize I have more professional experience in technology than in finance. I believe that was just due to bad luck due to graduating from my MBA program at the height of the 'Great Recession '. However, I am 100% committed and motivated to prove myself in a finance position."

finance cover letter reddit

Bad luck? No, it's the shitty and difficult-to-read resume , cover letter , and 'research reports' that are the issue .

What goes on in the recruiters head: I'm almost certain you would be a terrible employee just by the quality of the work you sent me in a cold email . You graduated from college 10 years ago, by the way. I remember at least a few of those as being pretty good years. If you were halfway decent, you could have squeaked in the industry in more than a few of those years.

Please do not pin all of your circumstance on luck , especially in a cover letter .

Even if the reader is a big believer in luck , you're telling him you're unlucky .

Who wants to hire someone who's unlucky? It seems the bad luck streak started in utero, if you ask us.

Revealing Your Ignorance:

Even worse than just plain ignorance, is the below quote from an attached research report that a candidate had written. Since he thought it was worth including, I assume the report was something he was proud of, but it was cringe-worthy.

"I am placing a STRONG BUY recommendation on [company]. ("ticker") and believe that [the company], at the current price of $10.00, trades at a 123% discount to my estimated fair market value of $22.30" (Both made up numbers to scale to the actual numbers listed in the 'report')

finance cover letter reddit

The report should have never been attached .

It made a weak applicant look even worse . He's clearly never done anything but 'book learn' on these subjects. It's painfully obvious by reading the report. He uses four valuation methodologies on the stock with the sole intention of showing that he knows more than one valuation method .

If you're thinking of including a research report on a company when you're cold emailing people, it's a high-risk strategy. Your research probably sucks unless you've been doing it professionally. If there is any doubt at all about including a 'research report', do not do it.

Side note: The research report had a lot of opinions and not a lot of facts, and it lacked connections between really basic facts about the current state of the business to the 'projections'.

If you don't think you have a chance to get the job, you can toss a Hail Mary with your cover letter .

Here's a cover letter an audacious undergrad used in an effort to stand out and grab the attention of its reader .

A big swing that's either a hit or miss . We don't recommend using this cover letter unless you lack the slightest chance of getting the interview in the first place.

Dear BLOCKED, My name is (BLOCKED), and I am an undergraduate finance student at (BLOCKED). I met you the summer before last at Smith & Wollensky's in New York when I was touring the east coast with my uncle, (BLOCKED). I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to talk with me that night. I am writing to inquire about a possible summer internship in your office. I am aware it is highly unusual for undergraduates from average universities like (BLOCKED) to intern at (BLOCKED), but nevertheless, I was hoping you might make an exception. I am extremely interested in investment banking and would love nothing more than to learn under your tutelage. I have no qualms about fetching coffee, shining shoes, or picking up laundry, and will work for next to nothing. In all honesty, I just want to be around professionals in the industry and gain as much knowledge as I can. I won't waste your time inflating my credentials, throwing around exaggerated job titles, or feeding you a line of crap (sic) about how my past experiences and skill set align perfectly for an investment banking internship . The truth is I have no unbelievably special skills or genius eccentricities, but I do have a near perfect GPA and will work hard for you. I've interned for Merrill Lynch in the Wealth Management Division and taken an investment banking class at (BLOCKED), for whatever that is worth. I am currently awaiting admission results for (BLOCKED) Masters of Science in Accountancy program, which I would begin this fall if admitted. I am also planning on attending law school after my master's program, which we spoke about in New York. I apologize for the blunt nature of my letter, but I hope you seriously consider taking me under your wing this summer. I have attached my resume for your review. Feel free to call me at (BLOCKED) or email at (BLOCKED). Thank you for your time. Sincerely, BLOCKED.

Interested in Investment Banking - Breaking In

finance cover letter reddit

If you want to break into investment banking, you need to be well-prepared for the technical aspects of the interview. We advise you to check out our  Free Investment Banking Interview Guide  first, before investing in  our paid course , so that you have an idea of what to expect.

Two common mistakes that candidates make while recruiting for IB: 

  • Using phrasing like "After my summer analyst stint, I learned the entire deal execution process...", "I am extremely proficient in Excel and financial modeling ...", etc. You get the idea. Be confident, but don't over-emphasize anything out of the scope of your ability to speak to it.
  • Not enough emphasis on teamwork. This is important. People should know that you are able to work with others. This is easy to incorporate, just give a brief two sentence overview of what your team structure was and why it made sense.

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More Resources:

We hope this template helps you land that dream IB job ! Please check out the following additional resources to help you advance your career:

  • Investment Banking Interview Questions
  • Private Equity Resume Template
  • Hedge Fund Resume Template
  • Consulting Resume Template
  • Investment Banking R esume Template

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StandOut CV

Finance cover letter examples

Andrew Fennell photo

The demand for financial specialists is on the rise and if you’ve got qualifications and experience in the industry, you could be in high demand right now.

But if you want an employer to invest in you and offer you a job, then you need to showcase your skills and prove how you can add value.

Find out how to do that with our top tips and finance cover letter examples in the guide below.

CV templates 

Finance cover letter example 1

Finance cover letter 1

Finance cover letter example 2

Finance cover letter 2

Finance cover letter example 3

Finance cover letter 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Finance cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a Finance cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Finance cover letter

How to write a cover letter

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

Type the content of your cover letter directly into the email you are sending, or if you are applying via a job board, directly into their messaging system.

The reason for doing this it to ensure that your cover letter gets seen instantly and you can start connecting with the recruiter as soon as they open your message.

If you attach your cover letter as a separate document, the recipient will have to open up the document, which will slow the process down, or make them less likely to even open your cover letter – which could mean your application gets skipped over.

Write cover letter in body of email

Start with a friendly greeting

Cover letter address

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

  • Hi, hope you’re well
  • Hi [insert recruiter name]
  • Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

  • Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
  • Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Now that you have warmed the recruiter up with a friendly greeting, firstly you need to let them know which role you are applying for.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant will be juggling 10 or 10 vacancies, so it’s important to specify which one you are applying to.

Give us much detail as possible (team/department, role title etc.) and paste in the reference number if you have one.

Here are some examples you can use.

  • I am interested in applying for the role of *Finance position* with your company.
  • I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
  • I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
  • I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Cover letter tips

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To round of your cover letter, add a professional signature to the bottom, giving recruiters your vital contact information.

This not only gives various means of contacting you, it also looks really professional and shows that you know how to communicate in the workplace.

Include the following points;

  • A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
  • Your full name
  • Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
  • Email address
  • Profession title
  • Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Gerald Baker Senior Accountant 07887500404 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application email, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

Email signatures

What to include in your Finance cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Finance cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

  • Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
  • Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
  • The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
  • Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
  • Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Finance cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Finance cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I am excited to apply for the Finance Manager position at Marks Sattin. As a results-oriented professional with a track record of achieving fiscal targets and driving process improvements, I am confident that my expertise aligns perfectly with the needs of your organisation.

With 16 years of experience, I have developed an eye for identifying expense-saving opportunities, streamlining accounting processes, and optimising resource allocation. I believe in cultivating a positive work culture that encourages innovation and teamwork. I take pride in nurturing the development of my personnel under my guidance and empowering them to reach their full potential.

In my current role as a Finance Manager at McArthur Ltd, I implemented a robust reporting system that improved data accuracy and reduced reporting time by 30%, while also formulating cost-cutting initiatives that resulted in a 12% gradual increase in net profit margins within 7 years. Additionally, I decreased cash conversion cycle by 10 days through integrating novel cash flow forecasting techniques.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing my qualifications, skills, and contributions I will bring as your new Finance Manager.

Kind regards

Jill Anderson ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Good morning, Mike

I am writing to apply for the Purchase Ledger Clerk position at Mitchell Adam. With 3 years of experience in accounts payable and a track record of accuracy and efficiency in transactions, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills to support your smooth financial operations.

During my tenure as a Junior Purchase Ledger Clerk at Farrer Barnes Limited, I was responsible for managing a high volume of vendor invoices, processing payments, and ensuring adherence to payment terms. I consistently maintained accurate records, reconciled statements, and collaborated effectively with vendors and internal stakeholders to resolve any remittance discrepancies.

A few accomplishments in this role included, achieving a 98% on-time payment rate and fostering positive relationships with suppliers, decreasing data entry errors by 15%, and assuring 100% compliance with internal/external audit requirements. In addition, I conducted in-depth expense analyses and identified cost-saving opportunities which led to a 10% reduction in overall costs.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my CV which outlines my education, skills, and any other additional information for your review.

Penelope Russell ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Good morning, Benjamin

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to in response to BBC’s advertisement for a Payroll Manager. With a strong background in payroll management, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise and leadership to your company.

As the Assistant Payroll Manager at ITV over the past 10 years, I have helped oversee the multiple steps to ensure that pay is properly calculated, tracked, and doled out, as well as the correct amounts for tax, company benefits, and other deductions are withheld. I always comply with labour laws, and the importance of confidentiality and data integrity within the media industry.

Some of my notable achievements include minimising errors by maintaining a track record of 100% payroll processing accuracy, implementing enhanced security measures which decreased data breaches by 23%, and boosting team productivity by 50% through mentorship initiatives.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your department and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Frank Bull ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Finance job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!

An ex-Goldman Sachs salesman's guide to writing a cover letter that works

An ex-Goldman Sachs salesman's guide to writing a cover letter that works

Applying for roles in the world of finance, investment banking, business and consulting can be an arduous and lengthy process. Whether you’re an undergrad, postgrad or an experienced professional the one thing that’s more grueling than putting together a CV: creating a cover letter. Get it wrong, and your inbox will be hit with the dreaded ‘Unfortunately...’ email. Get it right, and it can be your golden ticket to an interview. Your cover letter is where an organization can get a glimpse of you as an individual rather than bullet points containing your achievements from your CV.

Below is an insider’s list of the things you should (and shouldn’t) be doing when writing your cover letter. Keep in mind it’s not only human resource/recruitment professionals that review your cover letter. It’ll also be reviewed by junior and senior employees within the division/team you’ve applied for.

Do keep it succinct.  Your cover letter should never exceed 1 page. A good rule of thumb is to keep it between 70% and 90% of A4 (standard paper size). This is important as they’ll likely have hundreds to read through.

Do structure your cover letter appropriately. Your cover letter should (I) include a brief introduction about yourself and what you’ve been up to over the last 1-3 years, (II) explain why you want to work for that specific company, (III) describe why the specific division/business area is an area of interest to you and (IV) illustrate why you, as an individual, are suited for the role.

Do mention  firm  events you’ve attended and name drop employees you’ve met .  If I’m reading your cover letter and I notice you’ve attended a networking/insight event or met colleagues of mine, immediately I’ll think you’re proactive, engaged and interested in this field of work. This makes a big difference especially if you don’t have a lot of work experience. It also builds a greater connection between you and the reader as opposed to a candidate who hasn’t proactively networked.

Do include relevant experiences and/or transferable skills . Relevant experiences give the reader peace of mind. Highlight your relevant experiences and emphasize what you’ve achieved in them and the specific skills learnt and/or developed that’ll be useful and required in the role you are applying for. This will help the reader buy into your story. If you don’t have relevant experience, use whatever experience you do have to highlight relevant transferable skills.

Do explain why the organization stands out.  What is it about that specific organization that stands out to you? Was it the people you met at the firm? A social initiative that stood out? The firm’s expertise and specialism in a specific area of the market? Find your reason and stress exactly why that means so much to you. The key here is to not make it generic and applicable to other organizations.

Do share your story.  Take the reader on your personal journey and let your personality come through on your cover letter. A strong cover letter can differentiate itself from the pack and tells a story well, and in doing so leaves a lasting (positive) impression on the reader.

Do be strict with your use of sentences.  You have a finite number of words to use in your cover letter in order to sell yourself to the reader. Thus, it is vital that every point has a purpose i.e. identifies a skill learnt, positive outcome, etc. Ask yourself “So what?” at the end of each point you make.

Do speak the firm’s language.  Every organization has a mission statement, key principles and beliefs they abide by. Find these on their website and pay particular attention to the language used. If your cover letter speaks the organization's ‘language’, the reader is more likely to believe that you’ll be a good fit for the organizations culture.

Don’t come across as if you’re owed this job . Everyone hates an arrogant applicant. Don’t boast or show off. Be humble in your approach. Remember, you’re asking for an interview and job, thus it’s important that you come across as likable.

Don’t be generic and vague.  One of the most common mistakes candidates make (I’m guilty of having done this once upon a time), which costs valuable space, is highlighting generic information from the company’s website. Examples include the number of locations the firm operates from, number of employees working for the firm, etc. Don’t use easy to obtain information – all of the ‘basic’ cover letters do this.

Don’t shoot yourself in the foot. Spelling mistakes and grammatical errors cost candidates interview offers all too often. Such errors display a lack of attention to detail and care – two very important qualities in the world of finance. I’ve seen a cover letter spell ‘great’ as ‘grate’, and it isn’t uncommon for many cover letters to miss full stops. Printing out your cover letter will likely display errors that you would have missed on screen.

A large part of a hiring manager’s role is risk management. They need to hire the right people for their team and the company as a whole. Hiring is an expensive and lengthy process, and therefore it is important for you as a potential hire to minimise the risks associated with hiring you. Simply follow the above tips when writing your cover letter, pair it up with a strong CV, and you’ll be receiving interview invitations in no time!

Afzal Hussein is the Founder and CEO of Official CV Doctor . Prior to this, Afzal spent 4 years in Sales at Goldman Sachs . Afzal currently sits on a number of charity boards and will be launching his millennial consulting company in the summer of 2018. Click here to join over 34k students and professionals following Afzal’s posts on careers, millennials and productivity on LinkedIn.

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Entry-Level Finance Cover Letter and Resume Samples

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When you are applying for a job in finance , be sure to follow the instructions in the job posting exactly. If a cover letter is required, make sure yours is a good one. It can help to look at a sample of an entry-level finance cover letter to help you know what to include. It’s also helpful to review resume examples so you can see how yours compares. The following is an example of a cover letter for an entry-level finance position.

When you're applying for an entry-level job that doesn't require significant work experience, include information on the related courses you've taken, any internships you've done, and the finance skills you've gained while in college.

It's important to be specific and to take the time to match your qualifications to the job description. The closer the match, the better your chances will be of getting picked for an interview. Here is an example of a cover letter for a finance position, followed by a sample resume.

Sample Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Finance Position

This is a cover letter example for an entry-level finance position. Download the entry-level finance position cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Sample Cover Letter for an Entry Level Finance Position (Text Version)

Ashley Applicant 123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 555-555-1234 ashley.applicant@email.com

September 1, 2018

Thomas Lee Director, Finance ABC Investment Partners 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee,

I am very interested in the entry-level position that is available at ABC Investment Partners. I recently graduated from XYZ University College and am actively seeking employment with firms in the San Francisco area. My courses in investments, finance, and business have given me a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.

During my college internships, I dealt with a variety of budgets and conducted market research while handling numerous administrative duties. The experience allowed me to learn important skills and to develop the confidence needed to succeed in a competitive environment.

I have enclosed my resume for your review. Thank you for your time and consideration.

It would be a pleasure to interview with you and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Ashley Applicant

Sample Finance Resume

This is an example of an entry-level finance resume. Download the resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Sample Finance Resume (Text Version)

Ashley Applicant 123 Main Street Little Rock, AR 24680 (123) 456-7890 ashley.applicant@email.com

FINANCIAL ANALYST

Building solid investment strategies for a broad range of clients

Analytical and detail-oriented emerging professional positioned to excel in a challenging entry-level finance position requiring solid knowledge of investment strategies and international financial markets.

Computer skills include:

  • Sage 50 Accounting
  • PrevisionEPM Financial Reporting

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

SECOND STREET BANK, Little Rock, Ark. TELLER (January 2018—Present)

Concurrent with education, gaining practical experience for an established banking firm. Provide first-class customer service to clients and handle cash transactions with 100 percent accuracy.

FRANK FINANCIAL SERVICES, Little Rock, Ark. INTERN (September 2017—December 2017)

Structured, researched, and presented individual and group case studies of corporate financial structures, futures markets, commodities pricing, and trading strategies.

PREMIUM TAX SERVICES, Rye, New York INTERN (January 2017—April 2017)

Assisted with filing tax returns for clients.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK , Little Rock, Ark. Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, 2018

Relevant coursework included:

  • Financial Econometrics
  • Macroeconomics
  • Corporate finance
  • Asset pricing

SOUTHERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE , Little Rock, Ark. Associate of Applied Science in Business Management, 2016

Sending an Email Cover Letter and Resume

If you're sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message:

Subject:  Job Title - Your Name

Include your contact information in your email signature, and don't list the employer contact information. Start your email message with the salutation. 

How to write your finance CV & cover letter for tech startup jobs

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Published on August 10, 2020

finance cover letter reddit

Even during a global pandemic, the tech industry has continued to boom. Limitations in manufacturing and shipping have been offset by the widespread adoption of SaaS tools and general investment in home office setups.

New businesses have launched at a steady pace, with digital connectivity making it easy for them to grow without traditional offices.

So it makes sense for jobseekers to look for tech roles during a time of such economic uncertainty — particularly if that role involves finance. Modern tech companies will always need help managing spend and forecasting revenue .

Each position in any given industry poses distinct challenges, though, not least during the hiring process. If you want to secure a financial role with a promising tech startup, you’ll need to put in the time and effort to cater your CV and cover letter accordingly. This post will cover some key tips for helping you achieve this.

Let’s get started.

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1. Highlight your meaningful financial experience

Perhaps you’ve worked in a financial role before, or in a non-financial role for a business that operates in the finance industry. If so, you should obviously focus on that experience in your CV.

Risk aversion is one of the biggest factors behind the hiring process, not least when dealing with financial positions. So a directly-relevant work history will make you a safer choice. (This even goes for unpaid positions or temporary employment, so don’t discard those things.)

That said, you shouldn’t stop there . And even if you have no such history, you may well still have some meaningful financial experience if you know how to frame it.

You may have needed to devise smart payment solutions, negotiate deals of reasonable monetary value, or handle profitability calculations.

This is a time of entrepreneurship, after all, with those looking to develop their business skills having the option of turning to online options like monetized content creation or e-commerce.

If you’ve earned any income through a blog or a YouTube channel, explain the key decisions. How did you keep your costs down ? How did you choose which audience to target?

These decisions are sure to be pertinent for a tech startup, as it’ll inevitably need a fleshed-out content marketing strategy as it seeks to grow financially and establish its brand.

If you’ve run your own online store, that alone can provide a rich seam of material worth including in your CV. What business model did you choose, and why?

Maybe you picked dropshipping because it’s cheap, low-risk, and easy to run in your spare time. Perhaps you went in the opposite direction and built a subscription box service , attempting to slowly earn customer loyalty and build up ongoing revenue.

Any route has an explanation, and explaining will neatly show just how well you understand business finance — regardless of your level of success.

2. Explain the meaning of your academic accomplishments

academic-finance-cv

Academic accomplishments are important, certainly, and that applies regardless of grade inflation or how common they are. They show that you’re disciplined, dedicated, and capable of strong reasoning .

But they’re situationally significant, and often acknowledged early on before being swiftly forgotten. In short, they won’t win you any job offers . So what should you do?

Well, you need to explain what they mean in a real-world context. For example, suppose you were the leader of your school’s debating team. If so, you could focus on how that experience informed and developed your ability to communicate with people from different backgrounds to neatly convey the core thrusts of complex arguments (two skills that hold a lot of value in the financial world).

Additionally, you should look past your formal education to codify your subsequent informal accomplishments. It doesn’t really matter if you haven’t passed a specific training course for relevant productivity tools such as Notion, Asana, or Salesforce — if you know how to use them and have repeatedly demonstrated as much, then explain the details and stand behind your expertise .

In other words, if you’re proficient with a high-value tool, be bold about stating it .

3. Show that you can gel with the company culture

Company culture is something that many people prefer to disregard, thinking it inconsequential or "made up." And some startups think of finance and admin roles as being culture-adjacent. Finance is just there to support other teams - it doesn't matter if you're not a fit.

Which is all the more reason to surprise them in your cover letter ! As you're writing, keep a few things in mind:

Tech startup founders have lofty aspirations. In addition to yielding profit, they want to have fun and surround themselves with people they like. Even if you can make all the sums add up, you still need to come across as good to have around.

Brand perception is extremely important. These days, every company is under immense pressure (from the online world) to operate in a laudable way, and employees can be subject to a lot of scrutiny. If it feels like a new hire doesn’t meet the stated values of the business, it can cause serious brand damage.

Fitting in is part of being a professional. Company culture isn’t necessarily about assembling a group of people with identical interests and passions. Instead, it’s about bringing professionals together to pursue shared goals, and every professional should be able to successfully cooperate with others — even those different from them.

Financial professionals can feel somewhat removed from their colleagues, but they don’t need to be, and it’s better for a business if its various departments remain in close contact.

Make reference to the values of the tech startup you’re applying to, and explain how you can help the company develop. This will seriously strengthen your case. And at the very least, it shows you know how important culture is  to them.

4. Demonstrate a strong understanding of industry trends

finance-cv-trends

The digital world moves swiftly and consistently, with every business feverishly looking to the next big operational method, marketing tactic, productivity tool, or industry powerhouse. You can be on top of everything, take a month off, and return to discover that the ground has shifted beneath you

This means that possessing current knowledge is essential .

As you talk about your experience, ensure that you put sufficient emphasis on what you’re doing at the moment to stay sharp and advance your skills. Are you spending an hour each day reading through the latest industry blog posts? Steadily honing your home office to raise your productivity in an era of remote working ? Testing new applications to see what they can offer?

In addition, you should also make it clear that you understand how the company you’re applying with currently fits into its industry niche. How has it changed recently? What are its main competitors doing? Most importantly, what would you do to outperform them ?

Don’t go into exhaustive detail. Instead, simply note that you have ideas for how to proceed.

Today's startup finance roles require an interesting mix of clear experience (if you have it), and the willingness to go beyond the status quo. Show clear room for the growth (both your own and the company's), and you'll demonstrate this mix.

Leslie Boudreaux of BVOH: What growing companies want from CFOs and finance hires

Include everything needed to get through ATS screening

ATS screening ( Applicant Tracking System ) is a tricky yet omnipresent part of today’s digital hiring process. Most employers receive so many applications that they have neither the time nor the inclination to manually review them all, so they deploy ATS technology to parse the applications, screen those not meeting basic criteria, and extract the most pertinent elements to provide useful at-a-glance outlines.

Tech startups aren’t necessarily more likely to prefer using ATS screening, but they are more likely to know of their existence and have the expertise to implement them in custom ways. This means there’s a strong chance that you’ll encounter them in your job search, so you need to plan ahead and give yourself the best possible chance of getting through.

Here are some key tips for getting your CV and cover letter ready to pass through ATS screening and actually read by relevant people:

Use standard structuring and formatting. The fastest way to get a CV thrown out is to submit a file format or page layout that isn’t supported. Pay close attention to the description of the application process, as it will clearly state all supported formats. Note that there are various online services which can give you feedback on how well your CV is optimized for ATS screening, so it may be worth using such a service.

Match your phrasing to the job description. Take a look at the job listing to see how things are phrased, then tweak your CV to ensure that it uses similar terminology. There’s an excellent chance that any ATS tech being used will focus on terms and keywords defined by the company.  If you see consistent mention of “fiscal management”, for instance, then there’s surely value in working it into your CV.

Remove all the filler from your CV. You may be very proud of how highly you placed in a school sporting competition, but it’s pretty likely that your prospective employer isn’t going to care about it — and it’s possible for CVs to be screened because they touch upon irrelevant topics or include generic claims. If you want to get more abstract with your pitch, you can use your cover letter . Keep your CV as succinct as possible.

ATS isn't going away any time soon, so it pays to get into the habit of considering it as you file more and more applications.

The tech industry is always in dire need of smart financial management, so there’s a lot of room for new hires — but you need to know how to present your candidacy in the best possible light. Thankfully, following the tips we’ve looked at here will help.

Perhaps most importantly, remember that startups are generally one person's (or a few people's) brainchild. They genuinely love their company, and believe it's essential in the world.

They want to see the same passion and belief in every prospective hire. So tick the boxes — yes — but also strive to make your finance CV and cover letter that extra bit special.

Give it a try — and good luck!

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IMAGES

  1. Finance Cover Letter—Examples and Tips for Job & Internship

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COMMENTS

  1. Cover letters : r/FinancialCareers

    Malchicky. •. I've done hiring before (for a non finance company so take what you will) and the biggest mistake recent graduates make is treating a cover letter as an extension of their resume. A good cover letter talks about how your experiences make you a great candidate for the company. Talk about your passion in what the company does ...

  2. Cover Letters : r/FinancialCareers

    Make a cover letter if there's a gap or something odd in your resume. If not don't bother. The ask a manager blog has great advice and samples on cover letters. A good one can really make you stand out as a candidate. I would always recommend supplying a cover letter, especially if the position recommends providing one.

  3. My Successful Investment Banking Cover Letter + Free Template

    My Investment Banking Cover Letter is explained in this video. This cover letter got me interviews at Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan, and Goldman Sachs, where I e...

  4. Finance Cover Letter Example (w/ Templates for 2024)

    Top ↑ Finance Cover Letter Example 5 Steps for the Perfect Finance Cover Letter #1. Put Contact Information in the Header #2. Address the Hiring Manager #3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement #4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details #5. Wrap It Up and Sign It 3 Essential Finance Cover Letter Tips #1.

  5. Finance Cover Letter Example & Writing Tips

    Here's a list of guidelines for using proper cover letter format: Keep it clear and concise. The best cover letters are 200-350 words in length, and a one-page resume is most effective. Use an appropriate cover letter font and set your font size to no smaller than 10.5 points and no larger than 12 points.

  6. How to Write a Finance Cover Letter

    Middle Paragraphs: Two or three paragraphs to explain what attracted you to the type of work, why you're interested in working for the company, and why you think you'd be a good fit. Last paragraph: Thank the employer and say you're looking forward to receiving a response. 3. Beware the Generic Cover Letter.

  7. Finance Cover Letter Examples (Internship & Experienced)

    Here's how to write a finance cover letter for a job application: 1. Use the right finance cover letter format. Set page margins to one inch on all sides. Use single or 1.15 line spacing. Choose a legible font and set it to 11pt to 12pt.

  8. Finance Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

    5. Conclusion. Finally, request an interview and thank the hiring manager for their time and attention. Consider briefly restating why this finance job interests you and how you'd contribute to the firm's success. To end your cover letter, use a simple closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards" and then your name.

  9. Investment Banking Cover Letter Template

    Attached at the bottom of this post is the FREE investment banking cover letter template that is sometimes used for WSO cover letter review clients. We have decided to make it free to help those of you that can't afford a more tailored service. This cover letter template uses bullets to keep the points succinct and format easy to read.

  10. 3 Finance cover letter examples [Get the job]

    Copy and paste these Finance cover letter templates to get a head start on your own. Template 1. Hi Graeme. I am excited to apply for the Finance Manager position at Marks Sattin. As a results-oriented professional with a track record of achieving fiscal targets and driving process improvements, I am confident that my expertise aligns perfectly ...

  11. How to Write a Finance Cover Letter (With Examples)

    A good cover letter contains three to four concise paragraphs (about 200 to 400 words, depending on the type of role). For a visual reference, imagine a cover letter that takes up just over half a ...

  12. Finance Cover Letter—Examples and Tips for Job & Internship

    Consulting Cover Letter Examples. Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples. Data Entry Cover Letter. Executive Cover Letter Examples. Investment Banking Cover Letter Examples. McKinsey Cover Letter Examples. Project Manager Cover Letter Examples. Now, let's see these two examples of cover letters for finance jobs. 1.

  13. An ex-Goldman Sachs salesman's guide to writing a cover letter that works

    A good rule of thumb is to keep it between 70% and 90% of A4 (standard paper size). This is important as they'll likely have hundreds to read through. Do structure your cover letter appropriately. Your cover letter should (I) include a brief introduction about yourself and what you've been up to over the last 1-3 years, (II) explain why you ...

  14. How To Write a Finance Cover Letter in 2024

    There are five key elements to writing a good finance cover letter: a clear header with your contact information, a catchy opening paragraph, a list of your most impressive (but relevant) achievements and experiences, an explanation of why you are the perfect fit for the job, and a memorable call to action. 1.

  15. How to Write a Cover Letter That Lands You an Interview

    Use a simple font and black text. Match the font to your resume, and choose something like Arial or other simple resume fonts. Think of your letter in terms of three or four paragraphs and no more than one page. Less is often more. Finish with a professional closing such as "Sincerely," "Best regards," etc.

  16. Entry-Level Finance Cover Letter and Resume Samples

    Sample Cover Letter for an Entry Level Finance Position (Text Version) Ashley Applicant 123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 555-555-1234 [email protected]. September 1, 2018. Thomas Lee Director, Finance ABC Investment Partners 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321. Dear Mr. Lee, I am very interested in the entry-level ...

  17. Cover Letter That Will Surely Get You Hired at JP Morgan ...

    Step 1: Write a crisp and crunch introduction. Seize the attention of the recruiter with your opening paragraph. Tell him/her who you are, and why he/she should hire you, and express your ...

  18. Spendesk

    Let's get started. 1. Highlight your meaningful financial experience. Perhaps you've worked in a financial role before, or in a non-financial role for a business that operates in the finance industry. If so, you should obviously focus on that experience in your CV.