As a fresh finance graduate, it is important to have a cover letter that is concise, error-free, and focused without exaggeration or providing too much information that is really not necessary.
Also, a job application as a fresh graduate for an entry-level finance role would usually seem like a big task in order to make your cover letter look good when it is required. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a good cover letter to land you that entry-level position in finance.
Before we go into what you have to write in your cover letter, it is important to note that if you are applying for an entry-level job that does not require significant work experience, you will have to include information on related course work you have taken and the skills you have honed while in college.
For the ones who have done some internships, or one, as the case may be, you will have to include that and the finance skills you have gained as well.
Why is a Finance Cover Letter Important?
Understand that your cover letter is your introduction; otherwise, it is a written pitch. A cover letter acts as your first written introduction as a job candidate. As such, your cover letter should tell a story about you and not someone else. This is when you need to show your communication skills, but ensure you are writing in simple English with no ambiguous vocabulary. From the side of an employer, your cover letter;
- It helps them understand that you are aware of the qualities the company is looking for.
- It shows that you have the skills to do the job.
What Finance Employers Seek in Candidates
Finance employers seek candidates who display intelligence, ambition, and a blend of both soft and hard skills. Creativity is also valued. Attention to detail is paramount, showing that you not only read the job requirements but understood them. An error-free cover letter is crucial, as mistakes can dash your chances of securing an interview.
Writing an Effective Finance Cover Letter
To craft an effective finance cover letter, follow these steps:
- Format it like a proper letter:
- Include your contact information.
- Use an appropriate salutation (e.g., “Dear Hiring Manager” if you don’t know the recipient’s name).
- End with an appropriate closing (“Sincerely,” “Yours faithfully,” etc.).
- Keep it concise.
- Aim for three to four brief paragraphs (around 200 to 400 words).
- Imagine a letter just over half a page in length.
- Create a strong opening statement:
- Introduce yourself and express your interest in the position.
- Mention how you learned about the job opportunity.
- Showcase your experience.
- Use quantifiable examples to highlight your achievements.
- Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description and your certifications.
- Instead of generic statements, provide specifics like, “Reduced month-end close from 20 to 10 days, saving up to $40,000 monthly.”
- Reference your resume:
- Direct the reader to your resume or job application for additional details.
- Avoid duplicating information already present in your resume.
- Express Gratitude:
- Acknowledge the reader’s time and effort in considering your application.
- Proofread Carefully:
- Check for accuracy, including the company name and recipient’s details.
- Seek input from a trusted person to catch any overlooked typos or errors.
Sample Cover Letter for a Fresh Finance Graduate
Avenue Road,
6 October 2023
Mr. Richard Okiasi,
Fasthire,
xxxxxx
Dear Mr. Richard,
I am a recent graduate of Coast Mountain College and have recently completed an internship with Chester & Mike Associates, an accounting firm. During my time at C&M, I collaborated with fellow analysts and accountants to successfully reduce departmental budget overruns by 12%. The experience enhanced my teamwork and problem-solving abilities, which I believe will be valuable in my new role as an entry-level financial analyst.
Furthermore, I am excited about the opportunity to join Fasthire, a prominent professional recruitment firm in Nigeria. More so, I am particularly drawn to the prospect of working with your organisation to streamline costs and maximise profits. Your commitment to diversity and equality aligns with my values.
Here are some of my notable achievements that highlight the potential contributions I can make to your organisation:
- Earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Coast Mountain College.
- Led an initiative to transition to digital documents, resulting in an 18% reduction in paper waste and a 20% decrease in spending.
- Meticulously prepared comprehensive spending reports for departmental leadership.
I have attached my resume for your review, and I am eager to discuss my internship accomplishments and their relevance to this role. You can reach me at Mariamay.com or 9999999999. Thank you for considering my application. I appreciate your time.
Sincerely,
Maria May
Other Samples:
- Application Letter for Graduate Trainee
- Graduate Trainee Cover Letter with No Experience
- Business Data Analyst Cover Letter No Experience
- Professional Area Sales Manager Cover Letter Sample (FMCG)
- Internship Cover Letter/Application Sample
- Micro & Food Safety Specialist Cover Letter Example
- How to Write a Standard Nigeria Application Letter + Samples
