How to Write a Finance Cover Letter

A good finance cover letter has the power to distinguish you in this already competitive field. Navigating the art of crafting an application letter involves key elements while ensuring customisation for the specific job. Whether you are a finance graduate or a current student, this guide provides inspiration through cover letter examples such as work placement, letter of interest, short cover letter, and more. Although there is no one-size-fits-all approach, this guide offers insight into structuring your cover letter for different finance jobs and the importance of having a matching CV and cover letter. 

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Finance cover letter example

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Clara Chen opted for the Harvard template to complement her distinguished career in finance. The selected cover letter template highlights Clara's established track record as a finance professional in the UK. The design exudes a modern style and clean aesthetic, aligning seamlessly with the formatting of her accompanying finance CV.

What should be included in a finance cover letter?

A good cover letter, like a good CV, should be concise, impactful, and tailored to the specific role you're applying for, whether entry-level finance or more senior management. Your cover letter should showcase key skills and achievements relevant to the job. For example, generic soft skills for finance include but are not limited to:

• Adaptability

• Communication

• Analytical

• Problem-solving

• Decision making

• Attention to detail.

Learn more about different sections in our writing guide on how to structure your cover letter.

1. Introduction: How to start a cover letter for finance jobs

An introduction is key to any letter. Similar to the personal profile of a CV, it should be kept short and to the point. The introduction should captivate the recruiter or hiring manager at first glance, and to do so, include your current title and the job you are applying for. If you’re a student or graduate, mention this in the introduction. Below are two examples: one for a finance graduate applying for their first job and another for a student in finance seeking part-time work or an internship. 

For more information, refer to how to start a cover letter. 

2. Body: What should I put in the body of my finance cover letter?

This section of a cover letter is where you should delve into the specifics of your qualifications and experiences, demonstrating how they align with the job requirements. Once you have mentioned relevant skills, go even further with this by illustrating your skills with concrete examples.

Whether you are a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or have no experience, it’s important to highlight relevant achievements, be they big or small, articulating how you can contribute to the team.

For more tips, refer to cover letter length.

Finance graduate cover letter example:

During my academic journey, I have cultivated a strong foundation in finance through rigorous coursework and hands-on projects. My internship experience at Outcome First allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing my proficiency in financial analysis and strategic planning. I am particularly drawn to Inventum due to its reputation for innovation and commitment to excellence in the finance industry. With a keen eye for detail and a strong analytical mindset, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.

As a recent graduate, I am excited about the opportunity to further develop my skills and contribute to the success of KMG. I am particularly impressed by your company's dedication to fostering professional growth, and I am eager to be a part of a team that values innovation and collaboration. My academic achievements, combined with my internship experience and passion for finance, make me a well-rounded candidate for the entry-level finance position.

Finance student seeking an internship:

As a final-year finance student at Manchester University, I am eager to apply my academic knowledge in a practical setting through an internship or part-time position as a finance assistant at KMG. Throughout my coursework, I have gained a deep understanding of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and risk management. My coursework has not only equipped me with a solid foundation in finance but has also allowed me to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

I am particularly drawn to KMG for its reputation for excellence in the finance industry. I am confident that my academic achievements and coursework, combined with my passion for finance, make me a well-suited candidate for an internship or part-time position with your esteemed organisation. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, dedication, and analytical skills to your team while gaining valuable hands-on experience in a professional setting.

3. Conclusion: How do you end a cover letter for finance

As with any letter, drawing it to an end can just be what summarises things for the recruiter and shows why you want the role. A similar theme in cover letter writing is to keep it clear and concise. Furthermore, it should convey your eagerness to engage in a more detailed discussion about how your skills align with the organisation's mission.

For more information, refer to how to end a cover letter.

How to write a finance cover letter with no experience

When writing a cover letter for individuals entering the workforce or changing careers, highlight your academic background, coursework, skills, or any applicable hands-on experiences that underscore their potential. Consider the following tips:

• Your introduction should express a strong interest in the finance field and a keen eagerness to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical context.

• Demonstrate how academic achievements and extracurricular involvements have equipped the individual with essential skills for the position.

Finance graduate cover letter example:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Junior Finance Analyst position at your esteemed organisation, as advertised. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Finance from the University of London, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your dynamic team.

During my academic journey, I undertook comprehensive coursework in financial analysis, where I honed my skills in interpreting financial statements, conducting market research, and utilising financial modeling tools. Additionally, my involvement in extracurricular activities such as tutoring various finance modules has further developed my ability to work collaboratively and think critically in a financial context.

I am confident that my academic background and hands-on experiences have equipped me with the foundational skills necessary for success in the Junior Finance Analyst role. I am eager to bring my theoretical knowledge into practical application and contribute to the continued success of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with the needs of your organisation.

Sincerely,

Sam Smith

Letter of interest example for a finance student:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in securing an internship opportunity within your finance department, as advertised. As a dedicated finance student at the University of London, I am eager to apply my academic knowledge in a professional setting and contribute to the success of your team.

For example, in my recent project on "Market Dynamics and Investment Strategies," I showcased proficiency in analysing financial data related to diverse market conditions. Through the utilisation of statistical models, I identified key trends impacting investment outcomes and effectively presented my findings in a clear and concise manner. This project not only enhanced my analytical skills but also provided valuable insights into strategic financial planning and risk management within dynamic market environments.

I am particularly drawn to KMG for its reputation for innovation and commitment to excellence in the finance industry. I am confident that my passion for finance and strong analytical skills make me a valuable candidate for the internship position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and gaining valuable hands-on experience in the finance field.

Sincerely,

Sarah Oliver

For more inspiration, if you have little to no experience, refer to the CV examples below:

• Internship CV

• Part-time CV

• School leaver CV.

Key takeaways

To write a strong finance cover letter, be strategic and personalise it by emphasising your unique strengths and genuine interest. It goes beyond your CV, serving as a tool to showcase your value and passion for the finance position.

Next steps?

Discover a variety of tailored cover letter templates and CV examples tailored to align with your career goals. Should you need assistance, our CV Writing Service is at your disposal, ensuring a streamlined process that enhances your chances of securing more interviews.

For more inspiration, see our related blog article on the highest-paying jobs in the UK for more details on salaries and requirements for a rewarding career in finance.

FAQ

Does Morgan Stanley require a cover letter?

Morgan Stanley's cover letter requirements can vary, but including one is generally advisable. To ensure clarity, it's recommended to review the specific job application instructions. If you have any uncertainties, reaching out to their HR department for confirmation is a proactive step to take.

How should I approach writing an application letter for a finance company?

1. Begin by clearly stating your purpose and specifying the position you're applying for.

2. Highlight your qualifications, skills, and relevant experiences in the field of finance.

3. Express your enthusiasm for the company and elaborate on why you believe you are a strong fit for the role.

4. Conclude with a robust closing statement and a clear call to action.

Do I need a cover letter for JP Morgan?

When applying to JP Morgan, ensure your cover letter is tailored to the specific role, considering the unique aspects of the position. Thoroughly review the job application requirements, as certain positions may explicitly request the inclusion of a cover letter. Use this opportunity to showcase how your skills and attributes align seamlessly with JP Morgan's core values and the specific demands of the job you are applying for. This personalised approach not only demonstrates your genuine interest but also positions you as a candidate well-aligned with the company's expectations.