When applying for any role, writing an effective cover letter may be your chance to make a lasting first impression. It’s not just a formality, it’s a chance to show your skills, experience, and passion for the job you want.

Even if a cover letter isn’t compulsory, it’s always a good idea to write one. This can help personalise your application. It also shows any extra information that might be missed on your CV.

This also shows your dedication and real interest in the role. You took time to explain why you are applying.

With the right approach, you can craft a bespoke cover letter that will set you apart from other candidates. Here are some tips for writing a cover letter that appeals to recruiters and hiring managers in finance.

Tailor your cover letter to the job role

When applying to several vacancies, it can be tempting to use a one-size-fits-all approach. However, taking the time to customise your cover letter will pay dividends. Employers want to know that you have read the job description. They also want to see that you understand the company’s values. It is important to show how your skills match their needs.

Tips:

• Always mention the company by name.
• Highlight relevant skills or experience that are mentioned in the job description.
• Reference any specific projects or achievements in your career that demonstrate your understanding of the role.

Showcase both technical and soft skills

Job openings in the finance industry will likely need you to show your financial skills. However, soft skills are also very important. In your cover letter, you should show your skills in accounting tools and software. You also need to demonstrate that you can work well with others. It is important to present complex information clearly.

Tips:

• Use real-world examples to discuss your technical skills. If you have an example of solving a problem or improving a process, share it. Explain how you did it and why you are the best choice for the role.
• You can highlight your soft skills by explaining you are good at problem-solving using examples like the above. You should also highlight skills such as working and communicating with colleagues who aren’t skilled in finance.

For example, "In my current role, I use Microsoft Excel to communicate clearly with non-financial stakeholders. This helps me prepare monthly financial reports and streamline our department’s reporting process in general.”

Referencing your skills if it’s your first job

If this is your first full-time job, you may have different examples compared to someone who has worked in the finance industry previously. However, if this is the case - don’t let it put you off. Try to apply any examples you have from previous work experience, education, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate qualities that could help you in the job role.

For example, you could say:

“During my studies at sixth form, I developed strong analytical skills through subjects such as maths and economics. I enjoyed solving complex problems and understanding finance systems - which will benefit me in this role.

Additionally, my part-time job at [company] has helped to build my communication and time-management abilities, which I believe will be essential when working in the finance industry.”

Your examples will likely be different to the above, and it’s not necessary to have studied previous subjects that are typically directly associated with the finance industry such as maths. However, your willingness to learn and apply skills from other areas, even without finance experience, is still extremely important when showcasing your enthusiasm for the role.

Be specific

Employers or recruiters are looking for professionals who have a track record of delivering results. Numbers tell a compelling story in finance, so using them to quantify your achievements can pay off significantly.

Tips:

• Instead of saying, “I helped to reduce costs,” you can say, “I contributed to a 15% cut in operational costs. I did this by finding inefficiencies in the procurement process.”
• If you’ve completed key exams, mention them alongside your relevant experience. If you have studied ACCA or CIMA, connect this to the job role and explain how your education can help the organisation.

Be clear and concise

When working in finance, attention to detail and the ability to communicate clearly is essential. Your cover letter should reflect this, so keep your tone professional, avoid overused buzzwords, and aim to be concise. Recruiters or hiring managers often spend only about seven seconds on your application. Therefore, it is important to be clear and concise.

Tips:

• Around 250-400 words is considered suitable for a cover letter.
• Make sure your language is formal, yet personable. Avoid jargon that might make your letter difficult to read - particularly in case a recruiter reads it instead of another finance professional.
• Stick to one page and use short paragraphs.

Explain why you want to work in finance

Whether you’re applying for an apprenticeship or are studying for your professional qualifications, employers will want to understand your motivations for applying for the role.

Ask yourself questions: why do you want to work in finance? Why do you want to work for that company in specific? Why that role over other roles? Your cover letter should give insight into what drives your passion for the industry.

Tips:

• Share your long-term career goals and how this role will fit into them.
• Mention any personal or academic experiences that ignited your interest in finance.
• Note any modules or finance projects where you excelled or showed particular enthusiasm in.

An example of why you are interested in finance could be, “my interest in finance began during my A-Level studies where I particularly enjoyed dissecting case studies on corporate finance strategies. This led me to pursue my studies further with my ACCA qualification, during which I completed the relevant work experience to solidify my commitment to the field.”

Be proactive about any skills gaps or concerns

Try not to focus too much on your weaknesses, but do try to address any concerns you have early so that the hiring manager can see that you are aware of areas you need or want to improve. You can also use your existing skills, knowledge, and experience to compensate for any weaker areas in your application.

Tips:

• Emphasise other examples of prior experience you have, such as volunteer work or internships.
• If you’re a career-changer, explain how your prior experience equips you with a unique perspective or valuable skills for the new industry or role.

End the cover letter with a strong call to action

To close the cover letter, you should reiterate your interest without repeating everything you have already said. It is your final chance to make an impact, so leave the door open for further discussion and invite the employer to take action.

Tips:

• Reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role and your confidence in being a strong candidate - this will be the last message they are left with.
• Politely suggest the next step. For example, suggest that you will be interested in arranging an interview or discussing how you can contribute to the organisation’s goals further.

For example, you could end the cover letter with, “I would love to welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my skills and experience align with your needs. I’m available for an interview at your earliest convenience and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to (workplace name).”

Example cover letter

Every employer and hiring manager will be different, but here is an example cover letter that may be a great place to start if you’re struggling to write yours.

Dear [hiring manager’s name]

RE: Application for [job title]

I am expressing my interest in the [job title] position at [company].

As a finance professional [or current title, ie. finance analyst, management accountant, CIMA learner, etc.] currently pursuing my [name] qualification, I have developed a strong foundation in [skills could include financial analysis, reporting and compliance].

My years of practical experience, as well as my commitment to [something you do currently that aligns with the job requirements] align with the core responsibilities for the role. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to [company] due to [why do you want to work for this company?]

In my current role at [current employer], I have had the opportunity to [include relevant job responsibilities that support why you are the person they should consider for this job role]. One of my key achievements was [make it relevant to the job role and quantify this achievement. For example, “I contributed to a 15% reduction in operational costs.”] I believe that these experiences, combined with my [another reason why you’re fit for the role], would enable me to add immediate value to your team.

I am also adept at using software such as [relevant software/technical skills, eg. Sage, QuickBooks, Xero,] and my proficiency in [other software/tools] allows me to [how this helps you currently and will help you in this role]. Beyond my technical skills, I can effectively communicate well across departments, pay strong attention to detail, and take a proactive approach to identifying cost-saving opportunities - (these are just examples, remember to make this bespoke to you.)

I am particularly interested in [company] because of [specific aspects of the company’s work, such as sustainability, ethical finance, or community impact], which aligns with my own professional values.

I am eager to bring my expertise and passion for innovation to your organisation, and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills can contribute to your continued success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further, and am available at your convenience for an interview.

Yours sincerely,

[your name]

Final thoughts

It can be overwhelming at first glance when trying to summarise all of the reasons you should be considered for a job vacancy in just a few words. Make a note of all of the points you believe are necessary to mention, include examples, and aim to bring it all together before assessing the format.

Ideally, the key factors to consider when writing a cover letter are to make it personal to the role and company, ensure it is relevant and clear, showcase your achievements, stay professional, and provide a clear call to action to signal your confidence.

And remember, if you are rejected from a job offer, this doesn’t mean you have failed. Just keep trying and you will reach your career goals. Good luck.

Interested in an apprenticeship?

If you think an apprenticeship might be the right fit for you, have a look at our apprenticeship programmes to see if there’s one that would suit you. If you’re already employed, find out more about how to discuss starting an apprenticeship with your employer.

Employers can also learn more about our apprenticeship offerings by contacting our team for further details.