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5 Accountant Cover Letter Examples & Guide for 2024

• Accountant Cover Letter
• Assistant Accountant
• Staff Accountant
• Senior Accountant
• Accounts Payable Specialist
• Writing Your Accountant Cover Letter 101
• Accountant CL FAQs

Accountants can make or break a company’s finances. And since companies hire accountants with care to keep their finances in order, getting hired is competitive.

You have the  skills  to make any company proud, but even the best  accountant resume  might not be enough. It’s hard to argue with a killer resume  and  cover letter, though.

Problem is, creating a cover letter can be as hard as building a resume , especially if you’re better with numbers than prose. 

We know it’s no fun having to write a cover letter , but we’ll help you  worry less and write better  with our accountant cover letter examples , writing guide, and AI cover letter generator so you can wow employers and get the accounting role you want.

Accountant Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

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Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• For your accounting cover letter, find a way to incorporate the company’s mission into your experience. You can also discuss how you supported that mission at previous jobs. 
• If the employer lists a vision statement, this could be a way to make a connection. Incorporate their vision into your cover letter by referencing it concerning your own vision for the future. This tells the employer you share the same goals.

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Assistant Accountant Cover Letter Example

• Such is an unexpected twist that showcases a practical understanding of accounting principles and entrepreneurial spirit. Strive for a similar trick to make your assistant accountant cover letter captivating.

Staff Accountant Cover Letter Example

• In so doing, align your aim with the potential employer’s needs, demonstrating a convergence of interests that suggests beneficial mutual fulfillment.

Senior Accountant Cover Letter Example

• Use the  accountant job listing  to find out what the company needs and the skills they value. Then you can mention past positions and achievements relevant to the company’s mission in your senior accountant cover letter. 
• For example, AMP Services’ job ad states they need someone who “resolves account discrepancies by investigating documentation.” Samaria speaks directly to this in a paragraph focused on reviewing documentation and how she improved the system.

Accounts Payable Specialist Cover Letter Example

• Describe how you’ve positively impacted the company as a whole beyond just measurable accounting metrics. You don’t have to have cured cancer, but employers like to see that you invest in your work beyond duties. 
• Snatch the company’s attention with a company-focused intro. Give them a compelling reason you’re applying—needing to pay the bills won’t convince employers you’re the right candidate for the job, even if it’s truthful. 

Accountant resume

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3 Steps to Writing Your Accountant Cover Letter

An amazing accountant cover letter is two things: specific and separate from your resume. Your cover letter should stand on its own as a concise, detailed document that highlights your qualifications.

Step 1: Due diligence comes first

Many people use the same cover letter repeatedly, but that won’t impress your future employer. Just as you can see financial trouble from a mile away, employers can spot a recycled cover letter within seconds. So, tailor your cover letter to each job for which you apply. 

Just as you can see financial trouble from a mile away, employers can spot a recycled cover letter within seconds.

Stuck on where to start? Let the  accountant job description  you’ve found guide you. Does the company need someone who has experience with Quickbooks? Explain how you used it to manage invoices for annual grants to the community college you worked for last year. Does the job ad mention a need for improved accounting processes? Describe how you implemented a mentorship program that reduced error rates by 33%. 

Do your research to confidently address how you can meet the company’s needs. You can also address the  soft and hard skills  they require; if they need someone to assist with annual audits, discuss how your time reconciling accounts means you have a keen attention to detail and a strong grasp of GAAP and FASB standards. In essence, take what you know and use it to show you have the necessary skills. 

Step 2: Go beyond your resume

Most cover letters summarize their accompanying resume in boring, professional jargon, which won’t inspire someone to hire you.

Your accounting cover letter must convince the employer to seriously consider you even if they haven’t seen your resume. It needs to dig deeper than your resume allows and tell the story of your career.

What are your crowning achievements, and how did they impact your workplace or clients’ financial operations? Refer back to why you’re applying for this role and how you’ll change the company for the better. 

Think of it this way: your resume is a shallow pool, but your cover letter is a narrow trench. One gives a general overview of your qualifications while the other explores a few experiences in-depth. Below, we’ve shared two examples that dive into the trench.

• We identified and eliminated multiple unnecessary expenditures, saving a total of $750+ for each project associated with reef research, particularly for their survey work regarding coral cover on the mesophotic reefs of Palau. This specific project spurred my interest in environmental care, particularly water quality and wastewater management.
• With every document, I identified discrepancies or errors and collaborated with my team members to craft solutions, resulting in a significant decrease in error resolution time and an invoice exception rate of over 27 percent. For every client, I reached out after four months to ensure their financial departments were still running smoothly.

Both mention responsibilities that should also be on the resume, but they  explain the significance of their work and what happened afterward .

Step 3: Do communicate the right message

Now that you know what to include, let’s discuss   how  to include it. Keep in mind this is still a letter; it should be informative without going over a page, and it needs to sound professional without being stuffy.

Much like a normal letter, imagine you’re having a conversation. You need to be professional, but you should also be relatable and interesting. And just like a good conversation, you should always circle back to how you can improve the employer’s business. 

The good news is you can revise your cover letter before you send it. Review your cover letter with the same precision you apply when reviewing financial transactions. As you revise, shorten your sentences, improve your word choice, and establish your personality. We won’t say it’s fun, but revision is an essential step to writing a cover letter that gets you the job.

Outline Your Accountant Cover Letter

Staring at a blank page can be intimidating, especially when it comes to cover letters. Never fear, BeamJobs is here! Use our outline to organize your cover letter to perfection.

Your contact info: Your future employer will need to contact you at some point, so include your number, email, and your location (city and state). And of course, they’ll need your full name, so don’t forget to enter that into your template. Many employers also ask to see your LinkedIn profile. 

• Formatting:  Whether you’re using a template or a block format, leave your name out of your address. If you’re using a template, put your name on the letterhead. If you’re using a block format, only include your name in your signature.

Date:  Every letter needs a date, but if you’re using a template or outline, don’t forget to change the date when you submit. If you sent your letter in April but started drafting it in February, the hiring manager may look at you funny.

• Formatting:  Write out the full date, not just the month and year, e.g. January 3, 2023.

Inside address:  It sounds a bit counter-intuitive to include the inside address (aka the recipient’s address) since most cover letters are virtual, but it shows the employer you’ve done your research, and it makes it look more professional and complete.

Include the hiring manager’s name, their title, and the company’s address at the top of your cover letter, left-justified. If you can’t find the company’s complete address or the hiring manager’s name, don’t stress. Try checking on LinkedIn, Facebook, their website, and other job boards.

• Formatting:  Each part of the address should be on a new line. Double space between the inside address and greeting. 

Joanne Perry Stone Environmental Human Resources/Office Administrator 535 Stone Cutters Way Montpelier, VT 05602 

Greeting:  Just like a good handshake, a good greeting (also called a salutation) helps you make the right first impression. Always say “Dear [Name]” instead of “hello” or any other iteration. (It is a business letter, after all.) Then, address the employer/hiring manager by name. This shows you’ve taken the time to research who’s in charge of the hiring process.

• Formatting:  After your greeting, you can use either a colon or a comma; colons are typically used in business letters, but a comma works if the company is more casual. Whether you use a comma or a colon, don’t forget to include their title of “Mr.” or Ms.” and don’t ever just use their first name.

Body:  The body of your accountant cover letter should cover why you’re interested in the position, your credentials, and your enthusiasm for future discussion. We’ll take a look at each section.

• Formatting:  Single-space the text in your body, but be sure to double-space between paragraphs. 

Opening paragraph:  Just like a good book, you’ve got to get your reader hooked from the first line. That’s hard to accomplish, though, which is why so many cover letter openings sound like this (and yes, we’ve seen this actual example!).

When I found the job listing at Alterra Mountain Company, it sounded like a dream come true.

While this has potential, it’s generic and lifeless. Even the cliché “dream come true” phrase can’t strengthen this intro. This example, though, enthusiastically shows your interest and your credentials. 

I first heard about Alterra Mountain Company when you joined the Climate Collaborative Charter, and ever since, I’ve wanted to join your community of passionate outdoor adventurers who love the mountains and their communities with equal fervor. As a CAPP with four years of accounts payable experience, I know I can manage your travel and expense systems, resolve system issues, and support Alterra Mountain staff as your Travel & Expenses Accounts Payable Specialist.

This tells the employer that the candidate not only knows about but values the company’s mission. He also makes it clear that he’s studied what this role will entail. 

If you’re struggling to write your intro, write a few openers until you get one that sounds right. Sometimes it takes a few tries, and that’s okay—just keep trying until you hit one that’s focused and engaging.

Paragraphs 2-3:  These paragraphs support your claims in the opening paragraph. Each paragraph should focus on a clear accomplishment. Maybe you managed grants totaling over $15 million for a community college, or maybe you initiated daily reporting to reduce manual reporting work hours. 

Avoid the temptation to tackle too much per paragraph; you can’t go into as much detail (save the list of your credentials for your resume, instead). Here’s a good example of a focused discussion of a significant milestone. 

Within the hospitality industry, I have three years of experience working as an accountant for the Goode Company Restaurant Group. I learned how to work within a team-oriented and deadline-driven environment while managing multiple accounts. By the end of my time there, I had lowered the cost per invoice and invoice exception rate by 17 percent, and through my partnership with management, improved the budget to actual variance by 13 percent.

This paragraph gives a general overview of the candidate’s past role without getting sidetracked. It also includes some phrases from the job description, including “team-oriented” and “deadline-driven” while including metrics. 

Closing paragraph:  Finish strong with a sentence summary of how your values and qualifications align with the company’s needs. Lastly, give a call to action. Whatever you do, don’t end the way 99 percent of other accountants will, like this.

I believe I would be a good fit for the senior accountant position, and I hope to talk more with you soon about my qualifications. 

It’s not that those sentiments are untrue, but they’re, once again, generic and lifeless. This close, however, will leave a positive lasting impression.

Achieving these goals has been rewarding, but I’m excited to master new skills and handle multiple dynamic projects that will help provide scientific tools, information, and analyses to help clients solve environmental challenges. Stone Environmental is a place where I can live my values, grow my skills, collaborate with a motivated, talented team, and assist employees directly. I would be thrilled to share more of my experience with you and look forward to connecting soon.

Signature:  Make sure you say “thank you” if you didn’t do that in the closing paragraph. Then sign off with a professional closing phrase along with your name. 

• Formatting: If you’re presenting hard copies of your accountant cover letter, you’ll want to physically sign the document, so quadruple space after the closing phrase to leave enough room for your signature in handy black/blue ink.

Best regards,

Samaria Singh

Enclosure(s):  Lots of cover letters miss this step, but this alerts the hiring manager to what follows your knockout cover letter. As an accountant, you’ll want to include your resume, the job application form, and any reference letters requested in the job ad. Employers may also ask for your college transcript or CPA/CMA licenses, although many just ask for the application and your resume.

• Formatting:  Use the singular or plural form of “enclosure” depending on how many documents you attach. If you say “enclosures” but only have your resume, it feels like you copied and pasted it from a template. 

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation CAPP certification

Takeoff with Your Accountant Resume

Now that you have the resources you need to make your cover letter shine, don’t neglect your  accountant resume . They’re two sides of the same coin, so make sure your resume is just as polished as your cover letter. After all, your resume is where you can list the duties you excel at, such as analyzing balance sheet accounts and checking compliance with financial policies and procedures.

We know—it’s exhausting writing financial reports all day only to have to write a resume on top of your cover letter. We ease the process with our quick 11 steps on  how to make a good resume , and we have  free resume templates  like this one, which you can edit right now, to help you start (or rewrite) your resume. 

Senior Accountant Resume

Need a resume to pair with your senior accountant cover letter?

You have what it takes, so let our tools empower you to take your career documents from general to great. We’re cheering for you, and when you land your next accounting role, be sure and let us in on your great news! 

The best approach is to adjust to match the company, but always leave a little room for error and keep things professional if you’re unsure. Browse through the accountant job description and company website—if both are casual, it’s all right for you to be semi-relaxed, too. Keep in mind that accounting involves a lot of hard data and finances are at stake, so maintain a tone of respect and professionalism, but don’t use big words if the job listing doesn’t—it’s important to sound human.

Much like your accountant resume , the cover letter may be scanned and skimmed, so it’s best not to make it too long. Try to keep it around 300 words. Go over it and edit it a few times, cutting out things that don’t accurately showcase your excitement at joining the company or your specific skills as an accountant, such as your background in corporate taxes.

It’s okay to have a template you refer back to every time you apply, but it’s best to update every paragraph to match the job listing. Include the company name, role, and references to the job itself throughout. For instance, if you’d be working in accounts payable, you can talk about your experience using QuickBooks to manage invoices.

Accountant Cover Letter Example for 2024 (+ Full Guide)

You're a master of numbers, a champion of spreadsheets, and a guru of tax codes.

But when it comes to writing that perfect cover letter, it's like facing a complicated audit with no guidelines.

Annoying, right? 

Don't worry; you're not alone. A lot of pros in your field feel like they're crunching the wrong numbers when drafting their cover letters.

We've got your back. This article will give you the formula for writing the perfect accountant cover letter.

Here's what we're going to cover:

• What a Great Accountant Cover Letter Looks Like
• 5 Steps to Writing an Amazing Accountant Cover Letter
• 3 Essential Cover Letter Tips for Accountants

Ready to make that cover letter as polished as your financial reports? 

Let's dive in!

Accountant Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Accountant Cover Letter

You've just read a cover letter that could seal the deal for an accountant job. Now it's your turn to write a cover letter that'll make hiring managers take notice. 

Just follow the steps we're about to lay out for you:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Starting your accountant cover letter right means including essential contact details at the top. This should be in the header of your cover letter, the same way you'd do it on your resume .

Here's the rundown:

• Full Name. Your complete name takes the prime spot at the top.
• Job Title. Match this with the specific accounting job you're applying for. Hiring managers are swamped with applications for various jobs, so clarity is key.
• Email Address. Pick a simple, professional email. Stick to a format that combines your first and last name, like [email protected] , not [email protected]
• Phone Number. Provide your phone number. If you're applying for an overseas position, don't forget to add the dial code in front.
• Location. Just your city and state or country will do. But if you're going after a remote role or are willing to move for the job, make that clear.
• Relevant Links (optional). Feel free to include links to your LinkedIn profile or any other professional sites you have.

Once you've got your contact details sorted, it's time to include the hiring manager's info. 

Here’s what that involves:

• Company Name. Mention the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name. Do a bit of digging to find this. Check the job ad or the company's LinkedIn page.
• Hiring Manager's Title. If you know they are, for example, the 'Head of Finance,' go ahead and use that title instead of just "Hiring Manager."
• Location. Mention the city and country, particularly if the company is international. Optionally, you can be more specific with the street name and number.
• Email Address (optional). If you find it, you can include the hiring manager's email.
• Date of Writing (optional). For an extra professional touch, include the date you wrote your cover letter.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

When you're preparing your application materials as an accountant, it's important to make a thoughtful impression from the get-go.

Steer clear of the generic "To Whom It May Concern." It's not your best choice.

How you address your cover letter can leave a positive impression on the hiring team—if you do it right, that is.

So, let's start with some research. Take a look at the job posting, the company's website, or their LinkedIn profiles to identify the key decision-makers in the department you're applying to. This way, you can get their name and email address.

Next, address them with respect. We suggest using "Mr." or "Ms." followed by their last name. But if you're unsure about their gender or marital status, simply use their full name instead. For example:

• Dear Ms. Patel
• Dear Taylor Patel

If you can't find specific information about the hiring manager or head of the accounting department, no problem. You can address your letter to the department or the company as a whole:

• Dear Accounting Department
• Dear Finance Team
• Dear Company X
• Dear Head of Finance

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers usually take only seven seconds to scan an application before deciding to read further. So, your accountant cover letter needs to make an impact right away.

Start your first paragraph with your name and why you want this accountant job. If you're keen on the field or the role, say so. This enthusiasm could make the hiring manager want to learn more about you in a way they can’t by only reading your accountant resume .

Doing your homework about the company helps too. The more you know, the better you can show why you'd fit in. This tells the hiring manager you're focused on this job, not just applying all over the place.

If you've got relevant experience, feel free to kick off your cover letter with a key achievement or a skill that makes you the right pick for the position.

But keep it brief. The goal is to make the hiring manager curious enough to read more of your cover letter.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The body of your accountant cover letter is your chance to dive deep. This isn't the spot for a resume recap. Here, you should lay out what sets you apart from other accountants and weave into a convincing narrative.

Don't just list your skills either; prove that you've got them and that you can use them to contribute. If the job ad requires someone proficient in financial analysis, talk about a project where you used those important skills to cut costs. Use the job ad as your guide for what to focus on.

Understanding the company can help build your case. If you know they're moving towards automated accounting solutions, discuss your experience with this type of tech and how you’re excited to push the boundaries of the field. Show them how you fit the role and their plans for growth.

And don't forget, enthusiasm counts. Make it clear you're excited about this job, not just looking for a paycheck. Show that you’re confident in your ability to bring value to their team, and you’re all set.

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

You want to leave the hiring manager with a positive impression by the end of your cover letter. This part is just as important as your opening, so don’t let it fall flat.

End your cover letter the right way by offering a brief conclusion. Just sum up a few key points that make you the right fit for the accounting position, and focus on your unique skills or experiences that set you apart from the crowd.

After that, add a call to action. This is pretty straightforward - just encourage the hiring manager to do something, like discuss your application further or arrange an interview. This proactive step can tip the scales in your favor.

Then finish it with a professional sign-off. Your closing line here sets the tone, so pick something professional. Here's a sample:

Feel free to reach out to me via email or phone to set up an interview. I'm eager to go into more detail about how I can contribute to your team.

Best regards,

If "Best regards" feels too common, you've got other solid options like:

• Kind regards,
• Respectfully,
• Thank you for your consideration,

3 Essential Accountant Cover Letter Tips

You've got the rundown on what makes a standout cover letter for an accountant.

Now, let's dive into some cover letter tips to put the final touches on yours.

#1. Match Your Resume

Ready to crunch numbers as an accountant?

Just make sure your cover letter aligns perfectly with your resume. A mismatched application can make you look disorganized and not detail-oriented.

Your information should be sharp and precise on the page, with consistent fonts throughout your resume and cover letter. And while you're at it, fine-tune those page margins and the line spacing so that your cover letter doesn’t spill over to page two.

Think of your application like a balanced ledger; it’s best presented when it’s clear and consistent.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Feeling pressed for time? 

Try our free resume templates to create a flawless accountant resume, and use one of our cover letter templates to match. 

They're designed in close collaboration with hiring pros from across the globe to meet industry standards and fit your resume seamlessly. You'll have a job-ready application in no time!

#2. Emphasize Your Achievements

You've crunched the numbers, streamlined processes, and maybe even saved your last company a good chunk of change. That's awesome, and your cover letter is the perfect place to spotlight these wins. Achievements tell hiring managers you bring more than the same skills and experience as other candidates—you bring results .

But here's the kicker: Don't just recycle the bullet points from your resume. Your cover letter is a chance to add some color to those achievements. Explain the challenges you faced, the strategies you employed, and how they had a positive impact. This shows you're skilled and capable of going above and beyond to get the job done. 

For example, if you optimized a financial model that led to a 15% increase in revenue, don't just state the fact. Briefly explain how you did it and why it was essential for the business. This connects the dots for the hiring manager, letting them see what you've done and how you could benefit their team.

#3. Save It to the Right Format

You've spent a lot of time perfecting your cover letter, so before you send it, make sure all your hard work isn’t wasted.

The best file format is PDF. It makes sure your formatting stays consistent, no matter what device the hiring manager uses to read your documents, and your layout won’t get scrambled if they accidentally open it with the wrong software.

There's only one exception to the PDF rule—when the job advertisement specifically asks for a different format. If the employer is telling you to send a Word document or paste your cover letter into a text box, do that. Likely, their application system can only handle those formats, and you don’t want all your hard work ending up in the digital trash bin over this. 

Key Takeaways

And that’s all there is to perfecting your accountant cover letter!

We hope you feel more confident, and we’re sure you’ll get that job you’re eyeing in no time.

Before we say goodbye, let’s briefly summarize what we've talked about so far:

• Your cover letter should always have a header where your contact information is in plain view. Everything here needs to be factually correct, or else you might miss out on an interview call or email.
• Researching the company helps you personalize your cover letter according to the company culture. Address the hiring manager by name for a stronger first impression.
• Make sure to visually match your cover letter to your accountant resume so your whole application looks neat and professional. This also makes the hiring manager’s life easier since they can tell your documents apart from the rest.
• Unless the job ad requests otherwise, save your cover letter and resume in PDF format so your layout stays the same across any device or software.

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Accountant Cover Letter Example

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Start your Accountant cover letter by addressing the hiring manager by name, if possible. This personal touch shows you've done your research and are serious about the role. Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. For example, "Dear Mr. Smith, I am a Certified Public Accountant with over five years of experience in the field, and I am writing to express my interest in the Accountant position at your esteemed organization." This opening is direct and clearly communicates your intent. It's also beneficial to mention a mutual connection or something about the company that stands out to you, to show your enthusiasm and knowledge about the organization.

The best way for accountants to end a cover letter is by summarizing their interest in the role and their qualifications. They should also express enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the company. For example, "I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of skills and experience to your team and help drive financial efficiency and strategic growth. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further." It's also important to thank the reader for their time and consideration. Always end with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name. This ending reiterates your interest, highlights your suitability, and shows appreciation for the reader's time, which is crucial in a professional setting.

In a cover letter, Accountants should include the following: 1. Contact Information: This includes your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. 2. Salutation: Address the hiring manager by name if possible. If not, use a professional greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager". 3. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the job you're applying for. You can also mention where you found the job listing. 4. Body: This is where you sell yourself. Highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements that are relevant to the job description. As an accountant, you might want to highlight your proficiency in accounting software, your analytical skills, attention to detail, and your ability to work with large amounts of data. 5. Examples: Provide specific examples of your work. For instance, you might mention a time when you identified a cost-saving opportunity, or when you streamlined a process to improve efficiency. 6. Education and Certifications: Mention your degree in accounting and any relevant certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA). 7. Soft Skills: Don't forget to mention relevant soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. 8. Conclusion: Reiterate your interest in the role and the value you can bring to the company. Thank the reader for considering your application. 9. Closing: End with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and signature. Remember, your cover letter should complement your resume, not duplicate it. It's your chance to tell a story about your career and show why you're a great fit for the role.

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Accountant Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Accountant cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table of Contents

• Accountant Cover Letter Sample 1
• Accountant Cover Letter Example 2
• Accountant Cover Letter Example 3
• Accountant Cover Letter Example 4

Accountant Cover Letter Writing Tips

Accountants are responsible for maintaining and verifying financial records. They may also be responsible for reporting financial information to clients and advising on investments.

To prove you’re the right person for the job, you need a well-written cover letter. Follow these examples and tips to learn how to write an accountant cover letter that’s sure to impress hiring managers.

Accountant Cover Letter Example 1

Having achieved a solid foundation of knowledge in my career of accounting, I am interested in furthering my understanding by seeking new challenges in the accounting field. I would like to express my interest in consideration for a position at your company and have enclosed a resume for your review and consideration.

After achieving my Bachelor of Science degree from Northwest College and completing more than four years of public accounting experience and an additional four years in private accounting I have gained the skills to be a valuable asset to your organization. My knowledge and background in income tax preparation provides a strong foundation that allows for accurate and thorough work. I am extremely computer literate and have extensive experience with a number of different accounting programs. I have made a habit of personalizing programs to ensure that optimal productivity is achieved.

In my experience with a small CPA firm, I have had the opportunity to familiarize myself with a variety of accounting specialties. You will find me to be an exceptionally versatile employee that is comfortable managing clients ranging from struggling small business to established corporations. My comfortable demeanor gives me the ability to command taxing situations while encouraging a sensible, composed atmosphere. I am confident that my detail-oriented work habits will aid in the efficiency of your institution while my positive attitude will make me a seamless addition to your team.

It is my intention to establish a time when we can further discuss how my talent, responsibility and self-motivation will fit the needs of your company. Thank you for your time and consideration.  I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Accountant Cover Letter Example 2

Please accept my resume in consideration of the Accountant position. After reviewing the description, I believe I am a very solid candidate for the job due to my extensive accounting/tax background, strong organizational skills and ability to work with a wide range of professionals.

Throughout my career, I have established myself as an exceptionally successful and effective accounting and tax preparation professional. My deep understanding of accounting principles, familiarity with federal and state laws/regulations and outstanding customer service skills are the reasons I have thrived in these roles.

My organizational skills also set me apart from other individuals. My incredibly thorough nature, coupled with my ability to make strong decisions, ensures that the projects I oversee are completed in an efficient and productive manner. Additionally, my sound time management skills allow me to successful multi-task several projects at once.

In addition to my accounting/tax background and organizational skills, my ability to work with a wide range of professionals has always been an invaluable resource to my employers. Throughout my career, I have always worked well with people of varying backgrounds. My strong communication skills ensure that my place of employment remains productive and professional.

I have attached my resume for your review and would like the opportunity to answer any questions you may have for me and hear more about your organization and the Accountant position. I look forward to the chance to share my enthusiasm in person.

Accountant Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express interest in the Accountant position. I have enjoyed 3 years in public accounting which have been instrumental in equipping me with the knowledge and providing me with the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to succeed in the accounting profession.

At this stage in my career, I am interested in expanding my professional horizons by seeking new challenges in the accounting industry as I continue to pursue my CPA Certification. My background in public accounting has provided me with the opportunity to work with clients in a variety of industries. This has presented me with a diverse range of issues that have allowed me to develop my problem-solving skills while effectively working with a variety of different people.

I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my qualifications and learn more about your business and this job opportunity. Please find the accompanying resume for your review.

Accountant Cover Letter Example 4

Due to corporate restructuring, I am currently seeking a position that fully utilizes my 20+ years of experience in general accounting, month-end close, cash management and financial reporting.

Throughout my career, my desire to learn and grow has given me the ability to easily adapt and master several different accounting software systems from QuickBooks and Peachtree to Solomon and Great Plains in multiple industries. When given a new task, I work hard to complete it in a manner that is both timely and accurate; I believe in working smarter, not harder. Other highlights during my career include:

• Reconciled over 8 years and $150M in Inter-company transaction manually within a few months of taking the position for 6 different companies in 5 different currencies.
• Converted the sales, use and business license tax filings for two different companies in 30 location from a manual process to an almost 100% electronic process, thus reducing the time needed to file from 7 days to 2 days.
• Lead the successful conversion from Peachtree to Great Plains and managed and maintained the Great Plains and FRx software and databases for a total of nine separate companies.
• Participated in another conversion from QuickBooks to Great Plains and helped train all current and new employees on the use of Great Plains and FRx software for the two US and seven international companies.
• Negotiated with vendors to save over $30,000 in expense spending annually in a successful effort to eliminate the reliance on a $3 million line-of-credit.

I am interested in securing a position where my abilities and qualifications will be fully applied for our mutual benefit. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and elaborate on how I can make a substantial contribution to your company’s profitability. I can be reached by phone or E-mail at your convenience.

Showcase your skills

As an accountant, you will be tasked with making sure that financial records are accurate and up to date. Since you’ll be expected to ensure that clients pay their taxes on time, employers will need to know that you have the relevant accounting skills to do the job.

In addition to your accounting skills, you should also highlight your attention to detail and organizational skills in your cover letter. These are the necessary traits of any good accountant.

Here are some critical accounting skills:

• Attention to detail
• Familiarity with tax law
• Auditing skills

Quantify your achievements

As an accountant, you know that numbers are powerful. That’s why you should use them to your advantage when you’re writing your cover letter.

Here are a few examples of how to quantify your experience as an accountant:

• As an accountant, I saved our company $250,000 in taxes in one year.
• Increased the monthly revenue of our business by 25% through new accounting procedures.
• Resolved a company debt of $50,000 in 2 months by streamlining cash flow and maximizing resources.

Use the right cover letter format

When applying for an accounting job, you have to make sure your cover letter format doesn’t overshadow your relevant qualifications. The best cover letters are easy to read and structured to give hiring managers an easy way to assess your qualifications.

Here’s how to present your accounting qualifications in a professional cover letter:

• Format your cover letter with standard business letter format. Include an introduction, at least two body paragraphs, and a conclusion
• Set your margins to 1” to 1½” on all sides
• Use an appropriate cover letter font, and set your font size to no smaller than 10.5 points and no bigger than 12 points
• Keep it concise and relevant. The ideal cover letter length is generally 250–400 words.

Make sure your cover letter doesn’t contain mistakes

Accountants must be precise and exacting in their work to ensure that companies stay within the law. As such, they cannot make errors in their cover letters. An accountant who can’t spell likely won’t be invited for an interview, as the employer will assume he or she is unable to make careful decisions or complete detailed financial reports.

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5 Steps to Writing an Accountant Cover Letter

A properly formatted accountant cover letter has the potential to enhance your job prospects as it gives in-depth details about your skills, accomplishments, and work experience. It helps you to convey why you would be the best candidate for the accountant position in the organization.

In this blog, we will discuss the five key steps you must keep in mind when writing a cover letter as an accountant, with additional tips to increase your chances of getting an interview for your desired role.

Table of Contents

Steps to Write an Accountant Cover Letter

To write a perfect cover letter, you should always follow these five steps:

Step 1: Add the Sender & Receiver’s Information

Heading provides your contact information and the contact of the recipient, the hiring manager. The heading is a crucial element of the cover letter as it highlights the essential information about the candidate. It must include:

• Your name, phone number, and address.
• Date the letter was written.
• Hiring manager’s name and details of the company. 

Step 2: Include a Salutation

Salutation is the greeting at the beginning of the letter. It sets the tone of your cover letter and helps in making a good first impression. It is the first thing that the hiring manager will see, therefore it should be professional and appropriate. You can use the following greetings – 

• Dear Mr/Mrs (Surname of the Hiring Manager)
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team
• Dear (Department)Team

Step 3: Draft the Perfect Introduction 

The introduction helps you introduce yourself in a line or two before beginning to express your interest in the position. The introduction paragraph provides you the opportunity to grab the attention of the recruiter and encourage them to read the rest of the letter. 

Step 4: Add Body Content 

The body content of the cover letter briefs the hiring manager about your qualifications and why you should be hired for the role. It should include your work experience, achievements, and background related to the position. If you feel you have more information that you want to share you can either add another paragraph or add bulleted points. 

Step 5: Insert a Closing Line

The closing line concludes the cover letter. It should leave an impression that entices the hiring manager to take action. You should remember to express gratitude towards the manager for their time and consideration.

Accountant Cover Letter Template

Take reference from the template below while writing a cover letter for an accounting job.

Sample Cover Letter for Accounting Jobs

Accountants examine and prepare financial reports for clients and their cover letter should also showcase their qualities in a refined format. We have mentioned below sample cover letters for different accounting jobs.

1. Sample Cover Letter for an Accounting Job with No Experience

A cover letter with no experience should include educational qualifications, expertise, and potential skills you will gain from the position. Here is a sample of a cover letter for an accountant with no experience.

2. Sample Cover Letter for an Accounting Assitant

An accounting assistant manages tasks like filing, reporting, tax preparation, and invoicing. Below, is a cover letter of a candidate applying for an accounting assistant position.

3. Sample Cover Letter for Senior Accountant

A senior accountant is responsible for preparing and recording assets, liability, revenue, and expense entries by analyzing account information. Here is a cover letter for a senior accountant position:

4. Sample Cover Letter for a Chartered Accountant

A chartered accountant is qualified to perform several accounting procedures. Below we have a sample cover letter for a chartered accountant:

5. Sample Cover Letter for an Auditor

An auditor examines analyzes, and records financial statements by verifying the accuracy of records and compliance with tax laws. Below is a sample cover letter of an auditor:

Accountant Cover Letter Tips

Following are some tips to enhance your cover letter and help you stand out from the crowd:

1. Follow a Format

An accountant is detail-oriented and organized the same should be conveyed from their cover letter. A format allows you to strategically create a layout to place the required information. As an accountant, you may have a lot of information that you would want to share with the hiring manager, it’s important to bifurcate the information so it is easy to read and well organized. 

You can discover cover letter formats to master the art of creating a compelling and concise application to secure your desired role.

2. Mention Your Education Background

Accounting is a competitive field, and your cover letter should help you differentiate yourself from the other candidates. You should focus on mentioning distinct credentials. You can mention special qualifications, degrees, and certifications. If you pursued a different educational path, you can explain your journey and the skills you acquired along the way. 

3. Cover Letter vs Resume 

You should be aware that a cover letter and a resume have different purposes. A resume includes details about your professional background. A cover letter is a document that compliments your resume and provides a detailed explanation of certain aspects of your resume. So, make sure your cover letter does not repeat the same information as your resume. 

4. Highlight your Skills

Adding skills to your cover letter provides the hiring manager with details on how your skill set enables you to be a good fit for the role. Hiring managers look for accountants who possess a combination of hard and soft skills. Managers want to know that they can rely on you to analyze financial data and communicate the findings with clients. 

Interpersonal skills such as communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills are equally important. You should mention your interpersonal skills in your cover letter to show your positive perspective and communication abilities and technical skills to build trust in your mentioned competencies.

In this blog, we have discussed how to draft an accountant cover letter with the help of templates and sample cover letters for various accounting positions. We have also added some tips so you can set yourself apart from other applicants. You can discover top cover letter formats to master the art of writing effective and professional cover letters.

Do let us know if you found this blog helpful in the comment section below. If you are applying for an accountant job, boost your chances and get interview-ready with the top accounting interview questions. 

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Shobha Saini, the Head of Human Resources at Internshala, has maintained a stellar track record in employee relations and talent acquisition. With eight exceptional years of experience, she specializes in strategic planning, policy-making, and performance management. A multi-talented individual, she has played a major role in strategizing HR practices in the organization.

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Accounting Cover Letter: Examples +Tips & Templates to Excel

To apply for an accounting position, you must know how to stand out with a quality letter to attach to your resume. Indeed, the cover letter allows you to put forward the reasons why you believe that you are the qualified specialist for this position. You will list your work experience, training and qualifications in general accounting. But it is also allowed to briefly express your projects and your objectives in favor of the company or in relation to your personal projects.

Sample Cover Letter for Accountant

Your First name - Last name Your Address Postal code - City Phone E-mail address (City), on (Date)

To the attention of the Human Resources Department ‍ Name + Address Postal Code - City of the company

Subject: Application for the Accountant position

Dear Mr. Jimmy Thompson,

It is with great enthusiasm that I discovered your advertisement for the recruitment of a Senior Accountant, and I would like to send you, my application.

Rigorous and with [number] years of experience in managing accounting through extensive teamwork. With expertise in recording data and account receivable transactions, I master all accounting flows and reports.

With a [accounting degree], I have had successful results working for the AAC Group. Within this framework, I had the opportunity to successfully manage and optimize the current accounting operations, and to prepare the closing of the monthly and annual accounts.

Meticulous and organized, I can work in the respect of the rules of confidentiality, and with the sense of responsibility and the rigour essential to the exercise of this profession.

I am at your disposal for an interview in order to express my motivation in person.

• Thank you for your consideration of my application.

Your Signature

Your First name - Last name

Accounting functions are essential to all businesses. This profession plays a key role in financial management and tax matters. The average salary for an accountant is $73,000 per year in the United States (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

The recruiter is looking for an ideal candidate, so don't hesitate to showcase yourself in the letter and also during your interview.

Discover our cover letter templates best suited to your profile among our many examples available online.

Here is a sample cover letter for the job of an experienced accountant.

How to write a cover letter for an accountant

To make a letter of application , you must gather every element related to your skills and education in the field of accounting. If you have previously held a similar position in one or more companies, this is a great advantage.

Here are the general rules to keep in mind when writing your cover letter :

• Header: Write your name + first name, your e-mail, your city and postal code, your phone number at the top left, then the city and date below but on the right
• Make sure to put in the center: To ... / to the hiring manager (or human resources) at (company name)
• Introduction: Express your enthusiasm or interest in the ad / offer
• Hook paragraph: put your professional assets (years of experience, training, your expertise...)
• Professional and/or personal section: List your education and training, your diploma(s), your certifications, your internships and other professional experience
• Interview request: You can say that you are eager to join the team; that you are available for this job right away...
• One-sentence closing greeting

How to create a good layout of the Accounting cover letter

The layout for the accounting application letter is organized as follows:

• The letterhead with your contact information, the name and contact information of the employer (no phone number), the city and the date the letter was sent
• The subject of the letter.
• The body text: with 3 or 4 paragraphs maximum. It ends with the closing greeting.
• The footer with the signature and the post-script (optional) to indicate that your resume is attached or that you are going to make a phone contact.

The structure of the accounting cover letter

The traditional structure remains for this letter template. It should ideally fit on one page (reduce the font size or the distance between each line if your text is long) and in MS Word or PDF format. Try to keep your sentences short and change your ideas for each paragraph. Before sending it, check that there are no repetitions and that your words are as clear as possible. More details in our sample letter for the accounting profession.

Writing a cover letter for an accounting job

The header is the part that identifies you and the company to which the application is addressed. Be sure to highlight the area reserved for writing your first and last name, your address (postal code, city) and your e-mail, without forgetting your telephone number. There is no need to put more information about yourself because the resume already contains it. In the area where you put the recipient, write the name of the company or the name of the person who is recruiting if it was mentioned in the ad.

Writing the ideal cover letter for an accounting job

From the very first lines, the sentence must be catchy. The recruiter will judge from the start whether or not your profile interests him/her. In our accounting cover letter template examples, the teaser arrives in 4 or 5 lines and contains:

• A brief summary to show that your profile corresponds to the one the company is looking for (education, years of experience, current situation);
• A few details about the job you are applying for to prove that you know what it is about;
• Some major skills you feel are necessary for this position.

Example of a good hook / Example of a bad hook for an Accounting job

How to mention your professional experience in your accounting cover letter.

To further confirm your motivation, you can talk about your plans or goals once you have obtained the desired position. To do this, talk about the values of the company that you share and highlight your expertise.

Example of a professional summary in an accounting cover letter

How to highlight your strengths and key skills in your cover letter.

You need to be able to explain how your soft skills and hard skills related to general accounting could benefit the company or the position. Your skills and personal qualities must be the solution. In other words, you must convince the recruiter that they really need you.

Here are some examples of hard and soft skills that are essential to the functions of an accountant:

• Mastery of computer tools
• Management of office automation and accounting and tax processing software.
• Mathematical skills
• Good knowledge of legal, fiscal and accounting standards (labor and corporate law, public procurement code, supplier regulations) as well as of the company
• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to work in a team
• Autonomous and organized
• Good synthesis skills

How to finish your accounting cover letter

It is important to finish the letter well to show the recruiter that you are really interested in the job. There is no need to summarize what has already been said to avoid repetition, but you should conclude with a request for an interview and a greeting.

Examples of phrases to request an interview

The following are sample wordings for an interview request for the accounting position:

• I am immediately available for an interview, and I would really like to join your team and put my skills to work for you.
• I am at your disposal for a possible interview if my profile meets your expectations

Examples of appropriate closing greetings

Here are some examples of polite closing statements for cover letters for this type of job:

• I'd love the opportunity to discuss the role and what skills I can bring to the position.
• Yours respectfully
• Yours sincerely

Summary: Key points for writing the perfect accounting cover letter

To create the best accounting cover letter, it is important to follow the formatting and structure as in our templates and examples available online. Here are some tips for creating your personalized letter:

• Use a professional and uniform font that is easy to read
• Use short sentences
• Be specific and clear
• Aerate the page
• Try not to exceed one page
• Proofread to avoid careless mistakes

Find out more tips and download our resume templates and a sample accountant in our platform.

Frequently Asked Questions for an Accounting Cover Letter

Which resume should i choose for my accounting cover letter.

To accompany your application letter, you should also create a quality resume. Choose from our resume templates . The ideal resume should contain all the information concerning the education and skills required for the accountant's role. The resume should also highlight your profile, summarizing your education and professional experience related to accounting. Your personal information (town/city, telephone number, email) should be included in the first few lines of your resume. Add, of course, your language skills, computer skills and personal qualities. Some recruiters also like to get to know the candidate better through their values, hobbies or interests. No need to put a whole list, 2 to 3 or 4 per heading will suffice. Keep in mind that the resume template should be no longer than one page.

How do I write the e-mail that will contain the cover letter?

You must write a short e-mail to introduce your application, attaching your cover letter and resume. This e-mail must be short and must not contain any spelling mistakes. Start by professionally addressing the recipient, after writing "Hello". Also, remind the recipient of the job title you are applying for, and politely invite them to open the attachments. Don't forget to put your phone number and full name at the bottom of the e-mail so they can call you quickly without having to search through the attachments.

Tasuta allalaetav kaaskirja mall

Motivatsioonikiri, millele on enamikul juhtudel lisatud CV, on iga töötaotluse põhielement. Seda tüüpi kiri peab lühidalt kirjeldama oskusi, võimeid ja teadmisi, mis teil on ja mis on teatud huviga seoses otsitava ametikohaga. Selles mõttes peab kaaskiri lihtsalt sisaldama sellele ametikohale kandideerimise motivatsiooni ja põhjendusi. See peab äratama värbajas huvi ja panema ta pidama teid selle töö jaoks parimaks võimaluseks.

Kuidas koostada lihtsat kaaskirja

• 1 Valige oma valitud CV mall.
• 2 Austab ühtset struktuuri. Näiteks kasutage kaaskirja struktuuriga "Sina-Mina-Meie".
• 3 Lisage järgmised osad, apellatsioonivorm, lühitutvustus, kirja sisu ja järeldus
• 4 Ärge unustage viimast viisakusvalemit. Vaadake kaaskirja viisakusvalemite näiteid.
• 5 Isiklikuma ja formaalsema ilme lisamiseks lisage lehe allossa oma allkiri
• 6 Kui soovite saata selle meili teel, eksportige oma kaaskiri PDF-vormingus.

Teised kaaskirjade näidised

Kaaskirja struktureerimise nõuanded.

Kaaskirja kirjutamise hõlbustamiseks pidage meeles, et koguge eelnevalt kogu vajalik teave. Näidake toimetaja loovust, järgides samal ajal tüpograafiliste reeglite õiget kasutamist ja jälgides, et ei tekiks kirjavigu. Sest hea kaaskiri peegeldab teie kuvandit inimese ja professionaalina. Olge oma kirjutamisel loominguline ja originaalne, jäädes samas lihtsaks, kokkuvõtlikuks ja täpseks. ‍ Näidake läbitud punktide ohutust, enesekindlust ja meisterlikkust. Rõhutage, mida saate ettevõttesse tuua ja mainige oma erialast kogemust vastavas valdkonnas. Märkige ka kõik põhipunktid, mis panevad teid end uute ideedega täitva transformeeriva agendina ilmuma. Täpsustage oma võimet saavutada kavandatud eesmärgid ja kohaneda uute suundumustega.

Näita ennast positiivselt. Ärge langege sellesse viga, et kasutate sama kaaskirja mitme ettevõtte jaoks. Koostage kaaskiri iga taotletava töö kohta. Seda tüüpi kiri võimaldab tööandjal kujundada teie isiksuse kohta arvamust, sest see annab teile võimaluse täpsustada oma motivatsioone, mida lihtsas CV-s tegelikult ei kirjeldata.

Lihtsa ja tõhusa kaaskirja kirjutamise soovitused

• Laiendage Intro ‍ Pidage meeles, et pärast kõne valemit peate välja töötama sissejuhatuse, kus tutvustate end ametlikult ja isiklikult. Ärge unustage märkida peamist eesmärki, mis ajendas teid seda kirja kirjutama.
• Struktureerige oma kirja sisu Laske end juhinduda järgmistest küsimustest: – Miks?, Mis eesmärgil?, Kuidas?, Miks soovite selles ettevõttes töötada? → selles osas peate kirjeldama, mida saate ettevõttele tuua. – Rõhutage, kuidas teie teadmised võivad oluliselt mõjutada ettevõtte funktsioonide arengut ja majandussektorit, kus ta tegutseb. - Kuidas te seda teeksite tee seda? → lihtsalt rõhutab teie teadmisi ja võimeid professionaalina – Rõhutage oma õnnestumisi, varasemaid kogemusi, diplomeid, saadud tunnustusi või auhindu.
• Olge oma järeldustes otsekohene Andke teada, et olete vestluseks saadaval, esitades kontaktteabe, näiteks oma e-posti aadressi, telefoninumbri ja postiaadressi. Kui need kontaktandmed muutuvad, ärge unustage uuendada oma CV-d ja kaaskirja ning saata need uuesti ettevõtetele, kes on need juba saanud.
• Hoolitse paigutuse eest Teie kaaskiri peab olema kooskõlas teie CV-ga. Värbaja peab esmapilgul nägema, et need 2 dokumenti moodustavad ühe taotluse. Kasutage oma kaaskirjas samu värve, fonti, ikoone jne, mis oma CV-s. See väike näpunäide aitab teil luua tõhusa ja professionaalse rakenduse.

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What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Static and dynamic content editing

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

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Sample letters to download

Cover Letter

Advice for getting a job, instructions.

How To Write a Cover Letter With Examples

Cover letters can help differentiate you from other job applicants and be the determining factor of landing your dream job. By taking the time to craft a custom cover letter, a single sheet of paper can help communicate all the human elements that a resume may fall short of capturing about yourself. 

But what do employers and recruiters have to say about how to write a cover letter? What are the best tips they have to offer for graduate students who are writing a cover letter?

We asked 11 employers for their best cover letter tips. Here is what they had to share.

Let it Set the Stage

In many ways, cover letters should provide background information and context to your resume, while simultaneously addressing how that resume addresses the specific requirements of the job opportunity. The cover letter is your opportunity to "set the stage" and to convince the hiring manager why your specific set of skills, experiences and interests will provide value to their team and its objectives.

Andrew Horrigan '11 BSBA (Management Information Systems), Product Manager at Cisco

Research the Hiring Manager

If possible, find out who the hiring manager is and look them up on LinkedIn. Do your research on the company you're applying for. What's their mission statement and how do they portray their company culture? Hopefully what you're looking for in a job is reflected by those things. Make sure the hiring manager knows that and understands who you are and what drives you. A resume is often about as robotic as things can be. Make sure your cover letter is the opposite—personalize it and let yourself shine through.

Joshua Schlag ’05 BS (Computer Science) ’11 MBA, Digital Marketing Manager at Pyramid Analytics

Utilize Career Development Resources

The University of Arizona and Eller College of Management go to great lengths to make sure students are prepared for their impending career journey. Because cover letters are so important to getting your foot in the door, there are several career development resources online and on campus to take advantage of. The university’s cover letter builder serves as a nice template to get started. And of course, it never hurts to make an appointment with an Eller Career Coach through eSMS to have a professional review your letter before submission. 

Brett Farmiloe, ’06 BSBA (Accounting), Founder, Featured

Discover Past Samples of the Position

Do your research on the company and personalize your cover letter to the role for which you are applying. Don't be afraid to Google, "How to write a good cover letter for X position." Seriously, it helps! There is so much information out there from various perspectives—applicants, hiring managers, etc. Most importantly be yourself and let your personality come through. And don't forget to spell check!

Mariam Nikola '17 MS MIS, Consultant at Point B

Highlight Your Soft Skills

When writing a professional cover letter, there are a couple things you can do to set yourself apart from the pack. First, make sure you tailor your letter to the specific position you are applying for. This should not be a general, "one size fits all" letter—be sure to discuss specific details surrounding the role or the company itself. Secondly, this is an opportunity for you to show a little bit of your personality. Obviously, you want to remain professional, but this is a great time to highlight some of your soft skills that might not be fully conveyed through your resume.  

Brian Ellis ’17 BSBA (Management), Staffing Manager at Randstad Office and Administrative Professionals

Fill in the “Why” Gaps

As a talent advisor, I review a lot of applicants and agree that a cover letter can be a great way to stand apart, if it is done correctly. A great cover letter for me covers the ‘why’ that I cannot understand from just a resume alone. It should clearly state why you are interested in the role, what your goals are for utilizing your graduate degree (if recently graduated) and explain any career pivots reflected on your resume. If you answer those questions in a direct, concise manner it will add value to your application.

Monica Larson , ’11 BSBA (Marketing) ‘20 MBA, Talent Advisor

Tell Your Story

A cover letter is your opportunity to tell your story—tying your experience and personal interests into why you want a position and why you are the best candidate for it. Paint the picture of your journey and what about the position excites you personally and professionally. Similar to your resume, keep it short and sweet. No need to repeat what’s already on your resume. Recruiters and hiring managers don’t have time to comb through a novel, so you need to engage them with as few words as possible while also grabbing their attention.

Kelly Castoro, ’06 BA (Spanish, Portuguese), Project Manager at Squarespace

Tailor Each Cover Letter to the Position You Are Applying

Be sure to research the role and customize your cover letter for each position, relating your experience to the particular role you are applying for. Personalization is key—research who you are sending the cover letter to and address the letter to them directly. End your letter with a call to action, stating you will follow up by phone or email if you haven’t heard from anyone. Follow ups are very important! 

Jessica Rosenzweig, ’15 BSBA (Business Management), Account Manager at PeopleWare Staffing

Communicate Bankability and Personality 

Your cover letter answers two crucial questions; are you bankable and are you someone the company will enjoy working with? Communicate bankability with your knowledge of the company, industry and why your skills, capabilities and interests are a great fit. Share your passion for their mission, culture, brand—whatever excites you about becoming a member of their team.  

When conveyed through a concise, well-formulated, well-worded cover letter, you demonstrate the ability to write an effective business case—communicating that you are a ready professional and worthy teammate who will hit the ground running.

Theresa L Garcia, ’83 BSBA (Human Resources), Senior Change Management and Organization Capability Consultant at Boeing

Keep it Concise but Compelling

A cover letter is your chance to speak directly to the hiring team and tell them why you are not only the best match for the position for which you are applying but also give them additional insight into yourself as an individual that is less visible from your experience.

A great cover letter should be attention grabbing and touch upon the qualities that make you stand out from others in the applicant pool, highlight both your recent and most distinguished accomplishments and drive home why you are the right person for the job. Professionalism is always important, but don’t be hesitant to put your voice into the letter to let your personality shine through. Research the company, understand where they currently are, where they are going and show why you are the right person to get them from point A to point B. Recruiters spend a lot of time reviewing applicants and making yourself stand apart from the crowd is key. Keep it concise but compelling!

Matt Reineberg, ’14 BSBA (Marketing), Senior Talent Acquisition Sourcer at Cox Enterprises

Highlight the “Why”

Why are you applying to this company? Why do you want this position? Your cover letter should aim to answer the why behind applying for the job. Conveying an interest and excitement for working specifically for this job at this company, rather than a desire to get any job anywhere that will give you money, can go a long way. Show the company that they should hire you and your passion over someone that might have the skills needed for the job, but doesn’t care about the work as much as you do. 

Ryan Nouis, Trupath 

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