If you have never sent a cover letter for an open financial position, now is the time to start. Cover letters are often viewed as an unnecessary formality but that belief is entirely false. Hiring managers and recruiters do look at cover letters and they give job seekers an additional opportunity to make a case for themselves. Even if you prefer to work with numbers, being able to effectively communicate your skills in writing is critical throughout your career. Here are some tips for writing the best cover letter to land your next financial job.

• Personally addressed. The first step to a successful cover letter is to address it to the right person. If you can’t find that information on the job posting itself, try to determine the right person through the company website or LinkedIn. If you are unable to find a name, don’t address it “To Whom it May Concern.” Keep it simple such as, “Good Afternoon.”
• Introduction paragraph. The first paragraph should give the reader an idea of who you are and why you’re applying for this specific job. Use language from the job description itself as it applies to your background and experience.
• Accomplishments section. Next, share some details about why they might want to talk with you further. Try to determine from the posting or ad what their pain points are and direct your accomplishments in that way. Here is where you can include numbers such as the money you saved your last employer or a reduction of time due to implementing a new system.
• Reiterate your interest. Next, make sure you let them know you want this job. It sounds like that would be redundant since you obviously want the job or you wouldn’t be sending your resume, but never assume anything. Let them know why you are interested in this specific financial job and how it will affect your career.
• Contact information. Finally, don’t forget to include your contact information in the last paragraph. Even if the cover letter is attached with a resume or in the email itself, include this information to make it as easy as possible for the recruiter or hiring manager to contact you immediately.

Do you want to know more ways to improve your chances at the right financial job for you? Contact the financial staffing team at VincentBenjamin to learn more! We have finance recruiters located in Phoenix, Orange County, Los Angeles and Denver.