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The Investment Banking Cover Letter Template You’ve Been Waiting For

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A long time ago I said that we would never post a cover letter template here :

“I was tempted to post a Word template, but I don’t want 5,000 daily visitors to copy it and to start using the same exact cover letter.”

But hey, we already have resume templates that everyone is using, so why not go a step further and give you a cover letter template as well?

Plus, “investment banking cover letter” is one of the top 10 search terms visitors use to find this site – so you must be looking for a template.

The Template & Tutorial

Let’s jump right in:

Investment Banking Cover Letter Template [Download]

Download Template – Word

Download Template – PDF

And here’s the video that explains everything:

(For more free training and financial modeling videos, subscribe to our YouTube channel .)

And if you’d rather read, here’s the text version:

Do Cover Letters Actually Matter?

At bulge bracket banks, people barely read cover letters.

Cover letters matter 10x less than resumes and 100x less than networking.

But there are a few special cases where they’re more important:

• Boutiques and Local Banks – Sometimes they actually read cover letters.
• Unusual Backgrounds – If you’re NOT in university or business school at the moment, you may need to explain yourself in more detail.
• Outside the US – In Europe, for example, some banks pay more attention to cover letters, online applications, and so on.

Similar to grades and test scores, a great cover letter won’t set you apart but a poor one will hurt you – so let’s find out how to avoid that.

Keep your cover letter compact and avoid 0.1″ margins and size 8 font.

With resumes you can get away with shrinking the font sizes and margins if you really need to fit in extra information, but this is questionable with cover letters.

Go for 0.75″ or 1″ margins and at least size 10 font.

With resumes there were a couple different templates depending on your level – but with cover letters that’s not necessary and you can use the same template no matter your background.

1 Page Only

Ok, maybe they do things differently in Australia (just like with resumes) but aside from that there is no reason to write a multi-page cover letter.

If you actually have enough experience to warrant multiple pages, do it on your resume instead and keep the cover letter brief.

Contact Information

List your own information – name, address, phone number, and email address – right-aligned up at the top.

Then, below that you list the date and the name and contact information for the person you’re writing to, left-aligned on the page.

If you don’t have this information you can just list the company name and address and use a “Dear Sir or Madam” greeting.

That’s not ideal – especially if you’re applying to smaller firms where cover letters actually get read – but it’s all you can do if you can’t find a person’s name.

If you’re sending the cover letter via email as the body of the email, you can omit all this information and just include the greeting at the top.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

This is where you explain who you are, where you’re currently working or studying, and how you found the bank that you’re applying to.

Name-drop as much as possible:

• Impressive-sounding university or business school ? Mention it. Even if it’s not well-known, you still need to mention it here.
• Your company name , especially if it’s recognizable, and the group you’re working in, especially if it’s something relevant to finance like business development.
• How you found them – specific peoples’ names , specific presentations or information sessions where you met them, and so on.
• The position you’re applying for (Analyst? Associate?) – especially for smaller places that are not well-organized.

This first paragraph is all about grabbing their attention.

Example 1st Paragraph:

“My name is John Smith and I am currently a 3rd year economics major at UCLA. I recently met Fred Jackson from the M&A group at Goldman Stanley during a presentation at our school last week, and was impressed with what I learned of your culture and recent deal flow. I am interested in pursuing an investment banking summer analyst position at your firm, and have enclosed my resume and background information below.”

Paragraph 2: Your Background

You go through your most relevant experience and how the skills you gained will make you a good banker right here.

Do not list all 12 internships or all 5 full-time jobs you’ve had – focus on the most relevant 1-2, once again name-dropping where appropriate (bulge bracket banks / large PE firms / Fortune 500 companies).

Highlight the usual skills that bankers want to see – teamwork, leadership, analytical ability, financial modeling and so on.

If you worked on a high-impact project / deal / client, you can point that out and list the results as well.

This may be your longest paragraph, but you still don’t want to write War and Peace – keep it to 3-4 sentences.

Example 2nd Paragraph:

“I have previously completed internships in accounting at PricewaterhouseCoopers and in wealth management at UBS. Through this experience working directly with clients, analyzing financial statements, and making investment recommendations, I have developed leadership and analytical skills and honed my knowledge of accounting and finance. I also had the opportunity to work with a $20M net-worth client at UBS and completely revamped his portfolio, resulting in a 20% return last year.”

Paragraph 3: Why You’re a Good Fit

Now you turn around and link your experience and skills to the position more directly and explain that leadership + quantitative skills + accounting/finance knowledge = success.

There is not much to this part – just copy the template and fill in the blanks.

Example 3rd Paragraph:

“Given my background in accounting and wealth management and my leadership and analytical skills, I am a particularly good fit for the investment banking summer analyst position at your firm. I am impressed by your track record of clients and transactions at Goldman Stanley and the significant responsibilities given to analysts, and I look forward to joining and contributing to your firm.”

Paragraph 4: Conclusion

This part’s even easier: remind them that your resume is enclosed (or attached if sent via email), thank them for their time, and give your contact information once again so they don’t have to scroll to the top to get it.

Example 4th Paragraph:

“A copy of my resume is enclosed for your reference. I would welcome an opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you and learn more about Goldman Stanley at your earliest convenience. I can be reached at 310-555-1234 or via email at [email protected]. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.”

Unusual Backgrounds

These examples cover how to apply to a bank if you’re in university, business school, or you’ve been working for several years.

If you have a more unusual background (e.g. you went to med school, graduated, started your residency, but then decided you wanted to be an investment banker), then you might need to add a few sentences to paragraph #2 or #3 explaining yourself.

Resist the urge to write your life story because no one will read it – interviews are a much better venue to prove how committed you are.

Email vs. Attachments

If you’re emailing your cover letter and resume, do you create a separate cover letter attachment?

Or do you make the body of your email the cover letter?

I think it’s redundant to create a separate cover letter and attach it, so don’t bother unless they ask specifically for a separate cover letter.

If you’re making the body of your email the cover letter, make it even shorter (4-5 sentences total) and cut out the address bits at the top.

Optional Cover Letters?

If you’re applying online and it says “Optional Cover Letter” should you still upload one?

You might as well because it takes 2 minutes once you have a good template – it’s not the end of the world if you don’t include one, but you never know what everyone else is doing and it’s not terribly time-consuming.

Cover Letter Mistakes

Remember the role of cover letters: great ones don’t help much, but poor ones get you dinged.

The biggest mistakes with cover letters:

• Making outrageous claims (“I’m a math genius!”) or trying to be “creative” with colors, pictures, fonts, and so on.
• Going on for too long – 10 paragraphs or multiple pages.
• Listing irrelevant information like your favorite ice cream, your favorite quotes from Wall Street or Boiler Room , and so on.

If you think this sounds ridiculous, remember the golden rule: do not overestimate the competition .

For every person reading this site, there are dozens more asking, “What it’s like to be an investment banker?” at information sessions.

Sometimes you hear stories of people who write “impassioned” cover letters, win the attention of a boutique, and get in like that …

…And I’m sure that happens, but you do not want to do that at large banks.

If you do, your cover letter will be forwarded to the entire world and your “career” will be destroyed in 5 minutes .

More Examples

As with resumes, there are hardly any good examples of investment banking cover letters online.

Most of the templates are horribly formatted and are more appropriate for equities in Dallas than real investment banking.

Here’s a slightly different but also good templates you could use:

• Best Cover Letters – MBA Template

More questions? Ask away.

Still Need More Help?

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When we’re done, your resume will grab bankers by the lapels and not let them go until they’ve given you an interview.

Specifically, here’s what you’ll get:

• Detailed, line-by-line editing of your resume/CV – Everything that needs to be changed will be changed. No detail is ignored.
• Your experience will be “bankified” regardless of whether you’ve been a student, a researcher, a marketer, a financier, a lawyer, an accountant, or anything else.
• Optimal structuring – You’ll learn where everything from Education to Work Experience to Activities should go. Regional badminton champion? Stamp collector? You’ll find out where those should go, too.
• The 3-point structure to use for all your “Work Experience” entries: simple, but highly effective at getting the attention of bankers.
• How to spin non-finance experience into sounding like you’ve been investing your own portfolio since age 12.
• How to make business-related experience, such as consulting, law, and accounting, sounds like “deal work.”
• How to avoid the fatal resume mistake that gets you automatically rejected . Nothing hurts more than making a simple oversight that gets you an immediate “ding”.
• We only work with a limited number of clients each month. In fact, we purposely turn down potential clients in cases where we cannot add much value. We prefer quality over quantity, and we always want to ensure that we can work well together first.

FIND OUT MORE

Other Options for Personalized Help: Wall Street Mastermind

Finally, if you want to go  beyond your cover letter and also get help with your resume, work experience, networking, and interview prep, check out Wall Street Mastermind .

They’ve worked with over 1,000 students to help them secure high-paying investment banking jobs out of school (and internships while in school), and their coaches include a former Global Head of Recruiting at three different large banks.

They provide personalized, hands-on guidance through the entire networking and interview process – and they have a great track record of results for their clients.

It could be a great fit for you if you’re looking for comprehensive coaching through the entire process rather than just a new version of your resume or cover letter.

You can book a free consultation with them to learn more .

About the Author

Brian DeChesare is the Founder of Mergers & Inquisitions and Breaking Into Wall Street . In his spare time, he enjoys lifting weights, running, traveling, obsessively watching TV shows, and defeating Sauron.

Free Exclusive Report: 57-page guide with the action plan you need to break into investment banking - how to tell your story, network, craft a winning resume, and dominate your interviews

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279 thoughts on “ The Investment Banking Cover Letter Template You’ve Been Waiting For ”

I love how hand downs and direct this page is. Trying to break into IB come from a (semi-)target school but very bad GPA, love how you are always motivating, but realistic. Keep it up!

I am a sophomore and have a low gpa (2.5) should I include this on my cover letter? how do I stand out and not get dinged, low gpa because had to work full time freshman year because my dad lost his job, and my family had health issues. Am an only child.

All you can really do about a low GPA is network extensively so that people who know you can recommend you, and so you can avoid being filtered out by screening tools. See: https://mergersandinquisitions.com/low-gpa-investment-banking/

Maybe include a brief mention of why your GPA is lower in your cover letter, but focus on how you’ve improved since your first year (mention the higher GPA since then).

Thanks for the write up!

If i am writing my cover letter in the body of the email, Do i write the name of the recipient instead of dear Madam ?

I like it not bad

Hey Brian – thanks for this article. Quick question: is there a certain point in your career (in my case, I’m an associate) when you can stop with the cover letters even if they give you the option?

Cover letters are pretty much always optional unless they ask for one.

I was wondering for your template, you gave a solid and formal introduction. I also see other career advice sites that recommend making the cover letter “memorable” and straying away from the cookie cutter method with more flashy intros. As an example just from another online source: When I was seven, I wanted to be the GEICO gecko when I grew up. I eventually realized that wasn’t an option, but you can imagine my excitement when I came across the events manager position, which would have me working side by side with my favorite company mascot. So what’s your opinion on this? I’m sure it’s different for every field, so would you say the average investment banker appreciates something like this, or would it just make them roll their eyes and make you seem too keen/tryhard.

Same Andrew again…

Sorry I should’ve watched your video fully before asking. But you mentioned to not get too fancy with fonts, photos, etc. But would the bit of personal information outside the cookie cutter approach separate you in the slightest? To me, cover letters sound like they have the same purpose as GPA. A 4.0 (good but generic cover letter) won’t give you any advantages, but a 2.5 (poorly done letter) will eliminate you from the application process.

Yes, cover letters are basically used to weed out people, not to select them. You can include some personal information such as an interesting student group, study abroad, or experience that led you to IB, but don’t go overboard with trying to appear “interesting.” Save that for actual networking and interviews.

If you are applying to traditional “high finance” roles such as investment banking, private equity, etc., you should not do anything creative with your cover letter. It will only backfire. Firms either do not read cover letters, or if they do, they simply look at them to make sure you didn’t do something silly or inappropriate. You’re taking a very big risk by writing a “creative” cover letter, and one that has very little upside with tons of downside.

For online applications that request your resume, but do not specify whether a cover letter should be included, should I submit a cover letter? Also since you can only submit one document in these cases, should you compile resume and cover letter into one document?

Thanks so much.

If they just request your resume, just include your resume. I would not even bother with a cover letter or combining them into one document.

Do we have to leave

“Enclosure: Resume”

At the bottom of the Cover Letter? Many thanks

*In Online Application where they ask you to attach your CV and Cover Letter – if that makes any difference

Brina, many thanks for the quick answer. Just a last question:

Shall we sign between sincerely and our name or under our name?Both options are good?

Alternative A:

(Signature)

Alternative B:

The first one is slightly better.

I just wanted to thank you for not only this Cover Letter template but also your Resume template. I have used both and I have received great feedback from interviewers and getting my foot in the door for asset management.

Thanks! Glad to hear it. Good luck!

This question targets the paragraph listing relevant experiences & skills gained through it.

As a University Student with some corporate finance and consulting experience but nothing directly related to investment banking, do you think it would be relevant to list explain skills gained during university classes (e.g. a term project that simulated the entire M&A process based on a real life deal) that involved valuation, simulated investor calls, etc. Or do you believe sticking to actual work experience would be best suited.

Thanks a lot for all the content you post.

Stick to your work experience if you have actual CF and consulting internships. Maybe add a line or brief phrase within a line that mentions your learnings from university classes as well.

I live in the UK and I’ve been told cover letters carry a lot of weighting in the initial application process. I have written a cover letter which is 8 paragraphs but it’s still 1 page. Do you think this would be ok or should I take some stuff out? Thanks in advance, great website you have.

By the way, it’s still size 10 font but I had to reduce the line spacing between the paragraphs to fit it all in.

Cover letters only matter in the “negative” sense, i.e. if you write something stupid or have typos, you could lose an offer or interview opportunity. Your cover letter should be as short as possible, so 8 paragraphs is too long, especially if you had to reduce the font size to 10, which is too small. So, be more concise and realize that bankers glance at hundreds/thousands of these letters each recruiting season…

How do one relate a tax internship experience which I acquired In an accounting consulting firm to an investment banking internship I hope to start with with BofA

Talk about how your tax findings/work affected the big picture… did they potentially change the company’s valuation? What was the impact on the company’s financial statements? Did anything you did result in changes to the internal controls at the company? Did you do any tax work related to M&A or equity/debt deals?

Hi Brian, I have read that the header of a cover letter should match your resume. Is there a reason the header from the M&I resume template was not included in this cover letter template?

??? I think it would be very odd if your cover letter started with your name in a bigger font size at the top… so, no if that is what you are asking about. A cover letter should start with the normal heading of a letter. Your resume is different because it’s intended to present the key points in bullet/highlight format.

I agree. Thanks.

I’m applying online to banks in the EMEA area and most banks ask for my motivation – they don’t require a cover letter. Could I still use this template? or wouldn’t it make any sense to use this template?

If its the case that this template would not be useful, do you have any tips on what to focus on in such a motivation letter?

I think this template is too long for a simple question about your motivation. Your motivation should basically be the last part of your “story” – assuming 150 words for a competency question and a 300-word story. See:

https://mergersandinquisitions.com/walk-me-through-your-resume/

How do you travel like a dug dealer? haha…You are funny. Great info. Thanks a lot. I’m trying to break the front door at Piper Jaffray so I can put my little two feet inside that door.

hey, i am actually studying law in France but i wanted to go on trading/investment banking/hedge fund area. What would you suggest me ? Which arguments should I point out ?

Thanks a lot !

??? I’m not sure I understand your question.

The links for Workbloom – Investment Banking Intern Template and Vanderbilt – Cover Letter Template are not valid anymore. Is it possible to fix that? Thank you very much!

Sincerely, Frank

We don’t have alternate links, sorry. But the template there wasn’t much different anyway.

Hi Brian, I had a question in mind. I have been working with a Big four Audit firm in India for the past 10 months now, and have a Bachelors in Commerce degree from a non-target University here. The role here is Back-end, as in we do not have client interaction, and rather coordinate with the US/EMEA teams – which deal with the clients directly – for the work. Recently, I got a call from GS for an Analyst position under the Data Resource Group for its IB Division in India. How do you suggest I pitch my auditing experience to get an offer for this position? Also, considering the work I do here is back-end and basically, formatting files around and punching in numbers! Thanks in advance for your help!

I would just point out how your audit work led directly to results with clients and how you were a part of the client-interaction process, even if you didn’t speak with them directly. As a result, you have a good understanding of what they’re looking for and how to get them results most efficiently.

Thanks for the template. Is it correct to include in the cover letter an entreprise which I am auditing or not?

Sure, you could, but you have to be able to tie that to whatever role(s) you’re applying for.

Hi there, thanks for the cover letter template you provided. It’s a great help. Just wondering does the same template work for UK application? As you mentioned they tend to pay attention to cover letters.

Yes this template works for UK applications.

Thank you for sharing your blog, it helped a lot cos I am also having a hard time in writing a cover letter and I suck! Hope you can help more. Keep it up!

Thank you for sharing the template and guide! I am a recent college grad and just started working in an economic consulting firm (last month). I want to make the career transfer to IB and I am trying my best networking everywhere. I am applying for an IB analyst position and editing my cover letter. Should I still mention in the cover letter my leadership roles in college or it does not matter much?

Many thanks!

You can mention them briefly, but you should focus on your current role.

Thanks for the template! After working as an ER associate for 2 years in my hometown, I am moving from North America to Europe in the next few weeks. Should I mention in my cover letter something to the effect of “After visiting [country] several times over the past few years, I applied for and received my Work Visa” or will the recruiter assume I have a visa and do not require sponsorship? I just do not want to be passed over if they are assuming I will be a headache for them!

Furthermore, I am also hoping to move from ER to corporate. Besides tailoring the letter to reflect skills mentioned in the posting, are there any other changes that need to be made when moving out of capmarkets?

Thank you for your time!

Sure you can include this. Yes, I’d talk about why you want to move from ER to corporate and talk about why you prefer corporate over ER (perhaps you prefer the type of work in corporate better and you see yourself in a corporate vs. in a bank) and you want to move over to XX industry [the industry the corporate you’re applying for is in] given XX reason [ideally you’ve covered that industry in ER before]

Thank you Nicole. Should I be putting this explanation in paragraph 2? Or later on in the letter?

I’d probably list this later in the letter.

Hi, I’m studying in the US and applying to summer IBD internship in 3 different locations (New York, London, HK), so who should I address to in my cover letter since there is only one cover letter for three different recruiters? Thanks!

I’d say Dear Sir/Madam or To Whom It May Concern

when you express abbreviations, let’s say M&A, how do you put it in a cover letter? i.e., (“M&A”) or (M&A) without punctuations mark?

M&A is fine I believe

Hi! You mentioned that putting the name of the recruiter is always better than just a “Dear Sir/Madam”. When applying in London, do you think it is appropriate to address the cover letter to a recruiter I haven’t personally met that I just found his name via an internet search, specifically from Linkedin. Also, there are dozens recruiters for the same company on Linkedin, should I still address the letter to a specific person? What about if it is the director of HR? Should I address it to him/her directly?

Yes, I’d address the email to Director of HR. If you don’t know the person’s name, I’d say “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam”

Hey, I have a question concerning applying for an internship at G&S in Europe. Instead of a cover letter they want you to submit a motivational statement with 300 words when applying, which is according to them similar to the cover letter. But I am a bit unsure that I express my motivation for applying for an investment banking postion with this cover letter because it focuses more on previous internships. Should I outline my internships and then explain that I want to pursue an career in IB because of them? and should I mention my extra curriculare activities which involve leadership experience and exotic interests?

I’d briefly touch on your previous experience and focus on why IB, and why GS. If the previous experience can serve as your IB spark, use them. So yes you can mention that you want to pursue a career in IB because of your previous internships, but don’t dive too deep given word limit and you can address that in interviews. No, the latter part should be demonstrated on your resume, unless you have space in the statement

What should you do in [Signature]?

I’m not sure I understand your question. I’d just insert your signature there.

Upload an image of your handwritten signature?

Yes you can do that. Copy and paste it below “Yours sincerely/Best Regards”

I resigned from my previous role in April this year as we were planning a family move to another country However, it did not materialize due to some unexpected changes and I have to start looking for a job again. This has left an employment gap of about 3 months in my resume. During this period, I have taken the BIWS course to enhance my knowledge. Shall I mention my current status and address that in my cover letter? or leave it out and talk about it when asked during interview?

Xavier, you can list that on your resume and cover letter. You may also want to talk about other activities you’ve done during those 3 months.

I am a first year associate working at a boutique bank on the trading floor and trying to switch into equity research/banking side. How is the cover letter different from the cover letter template above. Do I need to specifically state why I am switching?

Yes you need to address why you’re switching

Do you have any suggestions as to how I can gracefully address this? The reason why I am switching is because I don’t feel like I am learning much out of my positions – not being given much responsibilities, etc…

I’d focus on the positives on why you prefer the other division versus your current one; not what you’re lacking.

Hi, I am wondering when introducing my skill sets and experience in the second paragraph of the cover letter, is it appropriate to use bullet points? e.g. my key skills/experience include: bullet point: A bullet point: B

Yes you can do that, though a lot of times we find that its best to follow our template, unless you’re a very experienced candidate

I worked at a boutique investment bank for an internship and I was wondering how I may explain my low gpa on my cover letter. I would focus on my strengths and what I learned from the position but sooner or later the question of gpa will be addressed either during an interview or sent through email. How would I approach this?

This may come up in interviews and I’d address it then. I am not sure why you had a low GPA. If you had family/personal reasons you can list that. Otherwise if you were taking more advanced courses because you were too ambitious and got a lower GPA as a result of that you can list that too.

I’m applying to various finance and IB positions and my documents will be seen as a package sent through my school. I created my resume in a very similar format to the template on your website, only using .5″ margins. I have the same header layout (with name and personal info) on both my resume and cover letter. My question is regarding holding these .5″ margins on both of my documents to keep a consistent look. I’m just curious as to whether this would be a good or bad idea, or as to whether you think it would even matter.

I haven’t seen the format of your resume so I am not 100% sure. 0.5 margins maybe a bit crowded but depending on your content it can be doable. If you have lots of solid content, yes this is applicable. Otherwise, I’d shorten your content and go for the standard margins

Hey, this template isn’t just for investment banking right, it can be used for targeting internships in accounting as well? Same with the resume template?

If you change the paragraph from why IB to why accounting, you can use this template. The resume template is tailored to IB though you can use it for Accounting roles too

I graduated from a top school 1.5 years ago, but unfortunately ended up at a not so impressive bank. What’s the best way to name drop the school in the cover letter? Thanks.

First paragraph – you can just say that you are working at XX bank and have recently graduated from XX school

I am applying to three different divisions in the same investment bank that are different in nature (2 back office and one front) and there is only one cover letter for all three that asks you to describe your motivation for each. Since they are different positions, how do I go about this?

I’d be generic and focus on why finance and how you can make an impact to the firm

How about adding the recommendations from the previous job? Is it worth? Should we add it even if they do not menton about that?

You can provide recommendations upon request

Hi, I am wondering whether I need to include a signature in my cover letter for online application. If so, should I just insert it in the pdf document or scan a paper copy of the cover letter? Thanks!

Yes you can include it. Both works.

Yo’re welcome.

Just a follow-up question: I am applying for summer analyst position at CS, and they only allow one application per applicant. Should I use the same cover letter during campus recruiting (addressed to an alumnus) for my online application? Since I am applying to CS HK as well, I am wondering whether I should use a slightly different cover letter.

Sure I think this shouldn’t be a problem. Yes the HK one should be slightly different – i.e. why HK, why Chinese market

Dear M&I staff,

I’m a master student in Europe. I’m currently attending a Master of Science in Finance after completing a bachelor in business administration. Do you have any specific suggestion about my first paragraph? Also, if I can’t find the name of the recruiter, how can I start the letter? I was thinking about expressions such as “To whom it may concern…”; does this work?

Thanks in advance

Yes it does, or Dear Sir/Madam.

First paragraph – I’d follow the template on the post

Dear Sir or Madam,

My name is [Insert Name] and I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Finance at [Insert University Name] where I have also been awarded a Bachelor of Science with honors. How would this sound?

Sounds good, though I’d probably just use My name is [Insert Name] and I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Finance at [Insert University].

Hey Brian/Nicole, Thank you guys so much for this website. I spend days on it reading your articles! lol I’m just wondering when I do the name-dropping on the cover letter, is it alright to put the company names in bold? or is that too much? What do you guys think?

Thank you for your kind comment. You should credit Brian for his hard work! I don’t think its necessary to bold company names. I think its probably better to leave it “unbolded.”

i a lil older i was originally an engineering major, left school (didnt graduate), started working as a stock broker, then mortgage broker, and then more sales background. I then re entered school and graduated with a degree with finance, gpa not so high bc of past screw ups, but now looking to break into finance. I love finance, and cant figure out how to convey that in a cover letter. can you help?

Focus on the impact you’ve made in your previous roles. Then say while you’ve enjoyed and learn a lot from your previous experience, you realize [Talk about your IB spark here], and that you realize you wanted to pursue IB because [XYZ]. Then say that you’re confident that your [XX] skills can be an invaluable asset to the firm (something around those lines)

If I’m applying for a job based on an online job posting (LinkedIn / other job board), then in my 1st paragraph, ho would you address the section about how you learnt about the job / company ?

(I find it awkward to say that “I recently learnt about your company through your online ad on abc.com”)

ThankX Guys!

I recently learned about your company from [a contact/an event/an online job posting] and was impressed with what I learned of [List what you’re impressed with here]

Hey Nicole,

Thanks for your reply.

I’m finding it awkward to write “I learnt about your company from an online job posting” bcoz I feel it sounds like I did not know them before seeing the posting (which, in turn, sounds insulting for the company).

Instead, can I just say “I recently found out about the XYZ position at ABC Capital & want to apply for this position”?

Sure, this sounds good. No, this isn’t insulting – this is why companies post on job postings! It is best if you have already spoken to people at the company and use that as an intro. line.

please i am an undergraduate in my final year with just one internship experience and one teaching experience, that was before i gained admission. i want to know if it is appropriate to include my date of birth and list of referees; i will also like to know the maximum length of resume ideal for some one in my category. Thanks.

Please see https://mergersandinquisitions.com/free-investment-banking-resume-template/

No, I don’t think you need to include your DOB and list of referees. Maximum length of your resume would be 1 page.

Hi Brian, thanks so much for creating this awesome website.

I’m a year one student in a non-target uni in HK who’s interested in IBD. My first semester GPA wasn’t stellar because I had a hard time balancing family issues and adapting to a new country.

I’m currently applying for several pre-internship programs, and am afraid my less-than-3 GPA will cause my immediate disqualification. What can I do?

I’ve had several leadership positions in high school, am great at networking/socializing, and speak a few languages. But my first semester GPA is lackluster. Please advice, should I explain in my cover letter?

Best Regards, Sara

Yes, your GPA is likely to be alarming to interviewers. Sure, you can explain the above on your cover letter, though I would focus on your strengths and what you have achieved first. You want to draw people to your strengths. I’d also try as hard as you can to boost your GPA next semester and craft a very good explanation when you land interviews.

Hey there M&I,

Firstly, I’d just like to thank you for this template – it truly is priceless.

I’m from Melbourne, Australia and I’d like to break into Investment Banking for a long-term career.

I’m starting a Bachelor of Commerce degree at The University of Melbourne and I was thinking of double majoring in Accounting and Finance.

I feel as though this will put me in a good position for Investment Banking and will also provide me with a few alternatives should I be unable to make it to Investment Banking or decide that it’s not for me.

Sorry about the long-winded explanation, I guess what I want to know is whether or not the double major sequence I have suggested is desirable in Investment Banking or there is a better sequence you could suggest to me.

Also, what do you have to say about people getting summer internships after first year? I haven’t heard of anyone doing this before, but have you? How should I go about trying to increase my chances?

Thanks very much!

Thanks. Yes, that sequence is fine but I don’t know if it would give you an advantage. From what I understand about Australia, I believe most people who get into banking there actually have dual Commerce and Law degrees.

Summer internships after year 1: very tough. You’d have to aim for small local firms. And probably not common in Australia.

I’m applying to a Private Equity internship and I completed the BIWS fundamental and advanced modeling courses. Should I talk about this in my cover letter? Right now I just have a general statement about it and that I worked on some case studies.I was wondering whether I should go more in depth and mention a specific case? Leave it as a general statement? Or take it out completely

Yes, definitely mention the specific case studies as that makes it sound much better than just saying you completed the courses.

Document for listing them on your resume (you may be able to apply parts of this):

http://biws-support.s3.amazonaws.com/BIWS-Courses-Resume-Instructions.docx

Thanks Brian,

I took your advice and mentioned specific case studies.

One other thing, currently in the second paragraph of my cover letter I talk a lot about my internship experience, but this internship doesn’t have to do with IB, its accounting and sales for a hotel. I did spin it in away that says that I picked up skills from this internship that I can apply to IB, PE, etc. Should I focus less about this and more on the BIWS courses, and projects in school I worked on since it doesn’t directly relate?

I would probably do an even split in that case.

I found this guide and template very useful. I was wondering, though, if I were to apply online to bb investment banks that didn’t make any meeting at my university and require a cover letter, what should I write in: “I was recently introduced to your firm via [Friend / Contact at Firm / Presentation] and was impressed with what I learned of [Your Culture / Working Environment / Bank-Specific Info.].”

I know about these banks just because of their fame, so should I just skip this part?

Sure though having this line may be more convincing.

I am now applying to Société Générale M&A summer internship in Power, Utilities and Infrastructure department. I tried to find some alumni working there. I could manage to find one via linkedin; however, i cannot contact him because he sets a permission. I wonder what should i write on cover letter if i can’t find a contact in SG?

Dear Sir or Madam / [Name of Recruiter if you have it]

Dear Nicole,

I feel sorry not to explain it clearly.

Quoted from the IB template: ” I was recently introduced to your firm via [Friend / Contact at Firm / Presentation] and was impressed with what I learned of [Your Culture / Working Environment / Bank-Specific Info.] ”

I searched SG career website but they mention the work environment and culture very vague. I tried to find an alumni working there; however,the alumni office hasn’t replied me yet.Even worse, SG hasn’t held any campaign event at our uni. At present moment,I can’t manage to get a contact at firm. I did search they have an aggressive expansion plan for the department 2 years ago. Should I mention this instead?

Much thanks

It would help if you have spoken to a contact who is working/worked there or attending one of their info sessions. Otherwise, yes it may be useful to mention of their department’s aggressive expansion plan.

Hi! What if I have not attended any presentation and I do not know nobody that work in a specific bank? Can I still apply online? I am applying to investment banks in London and I know that they recruit using the online application process.

Yes you can still apply online.

Hi Nicole/Brian,

Adding to what Paolo has mentioned, what about the cover letter? Since we do not know anybody that work in that specific bank (nor attend any presentations), who do we address the cover letter to? (Or is it better not to submit one if the cover letter is optional?)

Secondly, is it alright to say that we found out about the job/vacancy by browsing through their website?

Again, thanks for your continuous kind support.

Regards, Rifki

Quoting from the article:

“If you don’t have this information you can just list the company name and address and use a ‘Dear Sir or Madam” greeting.’ ”

If it’s optional, I wouldn’t even bother submitting it especially if you don’t know anyone there. Yes saying you saw it through a website is OK.

Thanks Brian!

I’ve just graduated in Finance and Accounting but wasn’t able to get summer internships in my 2nd year. What else can I write in section 2+3? I’ve got work experience in wholesale, an accounting firm and an insight day at a Merrill Lynch which were just before I started uni, i.e. 2009 can I still use these in this section or would it look bad since they are old?

I’ve taken part in many trading simulation games in teams etc which show all the skills you have mentioned in the paragraph, would it be acceptable to use this as an example even though it was a simulation?

They wouldn’t look bad but not exactly current. Ideal if you have recent experiences to list. Otherwise you can list them

Yes – show the returns you generated

Thanks for the useful resources.

Last year, I hadn’t as much insight and experience with IB (I was coming from law and bearely started to study a MSc-Finance in a good school). I still got two interviews with a nice boutique and a bb. I got reject at the final round.

This year I’m applying again (I’m currently doing an off cycle M&A internship)

1. Shall I mention I applied last year, and why I like the firm so much? or shall I just make a regular cover letter and avoid to mention I applied a year ago?

2. How many interviews should I go through to secure an offer, or what is the average? I’d like to know whether I am doing something bad or just if it is because you need to go through several interviews to finally get something?

3. What would shall I do with the current market if I secure another off cycle internship or a full time M&A position in a leading law firm? (I prefer finance than law, but I m getting old and need to start working as oppose to “intern”)

Sorry for this long thread, thanks for your help.

1. you can mention it if you want though I don’t think its necessary 2. hard to say – depends on you. people generally go through more than several rounds of interviews to land an offer 3. network a lot

Last year, I hadn’t as much insight and experience in IB profiles (I am coming from law and bearely started to study a MSc-Finance in a good school). I still got two interviews with a nice boutique and a bb. I got reject at the final round.

— Shall I mention I applied last year, and why I like the firm so much

Hi, I have an upcoming interview with a bulge bracket bank in Capital Markets. I submitted my resume about 1 month ago and got selected recently. My resume was updated recently and is much much more in depth than before. Should I reach out to the recruiters and ask if I can have them replace the resume on the website with my new one? Or would this be frowned upon? Thanks!

Yes, please do that!

Thank you for your tips, they are great!I have two questions:

1. All templates I find are about experienced people. If you are a person with no experience (or with a very short experience in a different area), how can you turn this fact around and convince someone to hire you? Should you really emphasize your academic background?

2. I started a PhD but early on I realized that it was not the right fit for me. How and where should I mention this? Should I explain why? I am afraid that no one will be considering me for a job position because I am quitting the PhD…

Thank you so much!

1. There are templates for inexperienced hires – pls look for the one for undergraduates. If you have NO work experience at all, I’d suggest you to emphasize your academic background and extracurricular activities. 2. Explain this on your cover letter & interviews. No, it shouldn’t be a problem if you know how to spin your story. Most jobs don’t require a PhD these days anyway.

Hi, Thank you very much for uploading the template.

But what if I don’t have background info or experiences specific to the investment banking industry even though I have banking experience in a different field such as Loan Officer? Will that matter?

I will be considered as a fresher in that case how can I convince anybody about changing my profession to investment banker or wealth management analyst from this profession?

And can you also please help me with a sample C.V for freshers in Invest and Wealth Management.

I do have an MBA in finance.

You’ll have to figure out why IB and pitch your story well.

You can use the same template for Wealth Management – just focus on your research and investment experience

I’m planning to use this short cover letter as my email body. My question : “Should I opt for a longer version with more elaborate details?”

— Dear Sir/ Madam [or the recruiter’s name],

I would like to express my interest in a position as [position] for [company].

As you may perceive from my summary, I’ve been leveraging my consulting and technical skills from my previous career as an IT Consultant to break into the finance industry. Thus, I’m adapt at translating clients’ problems into a satisfying, concrete solution. I also possess good leadership skill and can work well with others. [ + other skills the company valued / demanded for this specific job]

I would love to expand my career with your company, and am confident that I would be a beneficial addition to your company. I have enclosed my resume and I would welcome a personal interview at your earliest convenience.

[Name and contact address] —

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

I’d keep your email short, sweet and succinct. Anything longer than that is too much.

Hello, my question is regarding the introduction —

“Paragraph 1: Introduction This is where you explain who you are, where you’re currently working or studying, and how you found the bank that you’re applying to.”

I have nearly 2 years of consulting experience, but have recently been laid off. Since I’m no longer working or studying, how would I approach this as far as introduction?

Just introduce yourself and tell interviewer you’ve been laid off due to the lackluster economy – they should understand. Tell them what you’ve been doing with your free time i.e. traveling, studying, picking up a new hobby, etc. As long as you sound like you are doing something productive/interesting with your life, you should be fine

Errors – If there are minor typos that most people don’t see at a glance, are you in the clear? I’m not sure if people read cover letters that closely especially during OCR when hundreds of people apply at the same time from one school.

It depends on whether your reviewer is attentive to details or not!

I don’t exactly have a stellar GPA, so I was wondering if the cover letter is where I would explain myself? Or is it better to just not mention it? Thanks! And love this website!

It depends why you don’t have a stellar GPA – if you have a legit reason i.e. you had sick parents you needed to take care of etc I think it would help

Thanks for the article. I just had a quick question. I was originally interested in marketing and completed two internships my freshman year undergraduate (currently a junior applying for summer analyst positions). Since then I have had several research internships. Would it be a good idea what lead my decision to go from marketing to banking in my cover letter?

Any input would be awesome. Thanks!

Yes I would explain why you changed your mind in your cover letter and point to a specific person/incident

I am studying at a “frontier market” university and am currently an exchange student at a highly ranked (Top 100) universities.

Should I use an exchange studies university in a cover letter instead of a university where I’ll be graduating and mention it accordingly (I am currently an exchange student at…)?

No, I think you should still use the university where you’ll be graduating

ha frontier market. I am putting where I am an exchange student with the frontier school I attend.

I’m applying for an internship in the US, but I’m studying in Germany. Should I mention that my University/Business School, is one of the best business schools in Germany?

Thank you for your answer!

I don’t think it makes a difference. You could try but reviewers might not necessarily care too much re that

Hi, thanks so much for this article. I am writing a cover letter to J.P. Morgan, but I cannot find the office address in HK, shall I omit it at the top?

But what if I don’t have background info or experiences specific to the investment banking industry? does that automatically rule me out as a candidate even though they specify that finance background is not necessary?

Could I simply emphasize my skills and abilities that I have gained through other experiences such as working for an NGO?

Not necessarily.

just one other quick question. At Goldman Sachs, one could apply for internship in several divisions and they have asked motivation for applying to different divisions. Would it make this impression that you yourself do not know what division is right for you when you make applications for several divisions? Thanks a lot.

With Goldman, yes. However, in a way you still need to hedge your bets because one division’s MD might like you and the other’s MD might not.

I’ve shown my CL to the Head of HR in my firm and he adviced me to write something “catching” as a title between the date and “Dear Sir or Madam,..”. So do you think it would be okay to write there: “Why I am a good fit for taking part in your spring programme”? Or does this sound too arrogant?

Thanks a lot! Jevira

This sounds generic.

Have you got another idea or just put there: Spring Programme at XYZ. :D Thanks, and sorry for the time you lose with all my questions..

Come up w something original he said right? I don’t know if the above is original. You should just ask him what his suggestions are. I’d love to help but I need to think through it and have to look at your CL; wouldn’t be fair to other customers who are paying for our CL editing service.

Thanks very much for your helps. I have a few questions and I would greatly appreciate if you could help me. I am doing a double degree master in Complex Systems Science (A multidisciplinary field), so I have studied one year at Warwick, UK and now I am studying the second year at Ecole Polytechnique, France. 1) Should I mention anywhere that I have had a multidisciplinary approach since in my field I have to interact with people with completely diverse backgrounds, from Physics and math to economics and Philosophy? 2)I have got a full scholarship from European commission for my studies. How should I mention it? 3)I think many people are not very acquainted with the structure of such joint programs between two universities in two different countries. In my CV, shall I mention it as two masters and not saying that they are in fact joint? 4)My master thesis has been about financial contagion and I do not have ant job or internship opportunity, so how should I write the second paragraph?

Thanks in advance and sorry it becomes too long. Mostafa

1. Not sure how you will be wording this one. Difficult to use this to stand out 2. Yes 3. No, put joint but you can separate the two in diff lines 4. Can’t help you on this one.

Hi, it’s me again. Does this template also apply for online applications where you have to upload the cover letter? Or can my personal adress, the banks adress and the date can be removed withous replacement?

Yes these templates apply to online apps too

No, I don’t think you should remove the details you mentioned

I’m a first year university student in the UK, and looking to apply to a spring division internship at Goldman Sachs (and probably many others in the near future).

I have litte actual experience in terms of working for firms, but have competed in many stock market challenges/competitions, and I have come to university a year early, having been moved up a year.

Clearly with my lack of experience, I will need to slightly change the template you have provided above; how would you recommend I do this?

Many thanks.

I nearly asked the same thing – but my question didn’t even appear.

You should elaborate on your stock market challenges/competitions

Is it okay to write under my asset mgmnt firm that I “increased producivity of checking several entries by about 60%”? It was an excelsheet with about 120 rows in which I had to find the entries which were more than once in these rows. (it was an excel formula I made for that).

Or does it sound ridiculous?

Oh, its in the CV, not the cover letter.

yes it does sounds a bit ridiculous and monotonous. Sorry.

So I’ll delete :) Thanks. Its very difficult to boost your CV.

btw: may I send you, Nicole, my CV that you could look over that? You see my email adress, i guess. I’d really appreciate it! Thinking, that it sounds “too” ridiculous…

We’re not offering resume editing at the moment but will be introducing it shortly, so you can watch for that announcement.

What does “shortly” mean? Within this month? And will it be free? If not, how much would it cost? If you’re launching in the very near future, please reserve one place for me :-).

Haha yes but not free. Sure.

Thanks for your work!

My question is that if I apply for some regions where original language is not English i.e. China, Japan, will it be ok I send a 2-page resume/cl with one in English and another Chinese/Japanese/whatever? or seperately in 2 .pdfs?

Thanks again

No. Not necessary. Just send a one-page resume in English

If bilingual required?

No still submit one pager unless they ask

Thanks Nicole.

Another not-related question, do you think that a 4-month full time internship in PE department of commercial banks, say, standard chartered, strong enough to pass the summer/FT online selection? prior to that i had internship in big-4. a senior in university and will pursue a finance master degree right after. thanks

Should do but again it depends on what position you are interviewing for and which division you are looking at. Also depends on who is screening you..However, I believe your experience should suffice

Do you think sending a cover letter with a CV directly to the Head of investment banking dpt is inappropriate? The bank is hiring (according to website). Sent my CV to HR a month ago, no responce.

Sure, just send him a brief email and your resume. No point in sending a cover letter – address what you need to say briefly on the email

What is your opinion about listing client names. Obviously working in a deal situation it would not be acceptable to mention a client name and the transaction itself if this is not public but in my case I have done a lot of work which didn’t result in deals however I am quite keen on mentionning the clients as I have worked with many PE and large Corporate clients. Is it fine to write: “selected list of clients: A,B,C,D,E…

Why would you want to use names there? Just for more credibility when you discuss deals? I would still avoid using names if possible for dead deals. You can still mention that you’ve worked with some big PE names such as X but I wouldn’t go into details; pretend deal is still ongoing even if it died, and leave out the names.

https://mergersandinquisitions.com/why-investment-banking-deals-fail/

You do such a great service for idiots like me!Keep it up.

Hi! For my motivation letter, which the company requires on their application website, shouldn’t I just say I like money and that I want to work for their company because I would like to earn a lot? Or should I go with the “It’s my passion… I like to be challenged… I’d like to contribute innovations for the growth of the business…” bits? Thank you!

applications for bulge brackets. thanks!

Um #2, always

Okay, thanks!

I am beginning to write my cover letter for a number of boutique banks in the fall to apply for analyst positions. What do I if I don’t know anyone at the firm and can’t namedrop a presentation I attended (1st paragraph)? Can I just say

“My name is John Smith, and I am a recent graduate of Fordham University (Class of 2011). I am interested in applying for an analyst position at XYZ firm”

Is there anything else I can add to the first paragraph to flesh out my cover letter a bit? Thank you very much and keep up the good work!

That’s fine

Hi, I recently switched to a major in economics from engineering. The engineering curriculum at my school is very challenging and had a negative impact on my GPA over my freshman/sophomore year (3.4 currently). Would it be appropriate to list that I was previously an engineering major on my resume to reflect the challenging curriculum I was previously engaged in?

Yes that’s a good idea or at least reflect coursework on there

Thanks for the cover letter and resume templates, they’re really helpful. A friend of mine used your templates to score a summer internship in corporate finance advisory at a big four company in london and I was able to score a SA offer in the IBD of a BB firm in frankfurt, germany. we’re both germans btw.

depending on how fulltime recruiting develops we should set something up for a “breaking into IB in europe”-feature if you see the demand for this. So long, Nick

Congrats, interesting to hear that it works in other countries. There are a few articles on Europe (UK, Germany, Italy) already but could use more if you have a unique angle.

A company was recruiting at my college, and all they asked for was for us to send them a 1-page motivational letter? Any idea what I can include in the letter? Eg, why me? Why should I get the offer? Why should I get the bursary? My strengths and weaknesses?

They don’t want a cv, they just want a motivational letter. I’m not too sure what to include in it. Any help would be appreciated.

I would just follow the cover letter template here and expand on it a bit… don’t go into strengths/weaknesses, just follow the outline above.

Thanks Brian for putting up such a nice website and sharing valuable stuff with us aspirers. I might be using a wrong space to look for your suggestions anyways here I go. My challenge here is to make a successful transition from a business development/ strategy side (prior 3 yrs of exp. with a commercial bank) to IB. Being done an MBA recently from a decent B school in UK where I gained the required skill sets for IB, I was targeting at BB which doesnot seems to be working out my way so I m considering the small boutiques as well to start with. I thought a good cover letter can win recruiters attention in my case. Any advice on the approach I should carry to enter into IB & put my prior experience into use to encash it is highly appreciated.

If you do a search for “Networking” and “Cold-calling” you’ll see the most helpful advice – cover letters do not make a difference, focus on your cold-calling and networking skills and do not give up until you try hundreds of places.

is it okay to put stuff on your resume you don’t mention in your cover letter? or should your resume ONLY include stuff from your cover letter?

It’s fine, you can’t even mention everything in the cover letter anyway

In the 3rd paragraph you explained that we should say something along the lines of “I am impressed by your track record of clients and transactions at Goldman Stanley…”

This is obviously a great way to tailor your cover letter, but I was wondering where you find out information of transactions. I’ve found some doing a simple Google search, but is there an independent authority that tracks all of these? As well, how do you know which transactions to mention? The ones that the firm is particularly proud of or ground-breaking?

Use the WSJ Deal Journal or NYT Dealbook to find recent deals they’ve done, anything sizable or significant e.g. the Goldman / Facebook deal

I realized I made a grammatical error in the last paragraph of my cover letter today. I never noticed it before and I’ve sent it to three places already, one BB and two boutiques. Big deal?

No, no one reads cover letters anyway

Firstly thanks for the website, it’s great.

My question is: in most summer IB internships, they ask several cover letter-like questions like “In 250 words max, describe your career aspirations” etc., however there’s usually an option to upload a cover letter as well. Would you advise keeping it concise or would you include examples of IB-related things, adapted to the question, despite the fact you’re effectively rewriting the cover letter?

This is in UK by the way.

Thanks in advance.

Just keep it concise – competency questions are not a big factor vs. CV/interviews.

Thank you for the template.

Quick questions:

Should we use the email format for a doostang message as well?

No keep it way shorter like 2-3 sentences maybe

Dear M&I,

I guess I’m the most complicated case here. I’m currently doing BA in Art History and Italian at UCL, London, now doing my Erasmus in Italy. However, last summer I worked as a M&A Summer Analyst in a small boutique bank specializing in cross-border M&As. There, I started from scratch, with no finance experience/knowledge, but learnt a lot and had lots of hands-on experience, since the company was really small and I was involved in literally everything.

I’m applying for summer internships in large investment banks and about to start writing my cover letters. I assume I must explain myself for studying Art History & Italian and my out-of-the-blue interest in I-Banking, plus use my last summer experience as a selling point. Any other specific hints?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Well, why did you work there? What made you interested in doing that? Reference a specific person or if nothing comes to mind use something from the news or your background e.g. I was always really interested in Italy and the UK and got interested in finance as a result of [xx] so I wanted to explore cross-border M&A and leverage my skills/interests like that.

Hi, I have completed my masters in Drug Discovery and Translational Biology. But currently I am planning to apply for any investment banking positions. As I don’t have any background or experience in the given field, i don’t what to write in the 2nd and 3rd paragraph.

Can you please help me,

Talk about the analytical skills you gained and how they apply, or the leadership / project management skills or anything else like that from previous internships or school.

Hey guys, this letter just repeats what is inside the Resume anyway. What is the additional value for the potential employer to read this kind of resume? There are no additional information. Wouldnt it be better to wite about your motiviation, your personal (not work) background, and reasons to chose this department/bank ? Or would it harm to do this?

Furthermore, the letter includes the information about resume enclosure 3(!) times. I like this site but this template really does not look too promising for me!

So don’t use it? The point is that no one reads cover letters, but in case they do, you don’t want to screw up by saying anything controversial or anything that could be misinterpreted.

If you start writing your personal story, bankers might mistake it for a soap opera script rather than cover letter.

Cover letters have no value at all, but just like grades if you screw one up it could hurt you. This template is intentionally boring and gives very little information because otherwise people would download this and insert pictures of unicorns, write about their past relationships, and other nonsense.

Great comment, made me laugh

Do you recommend being creative in cover letters, ie varying sentence structure, using big/expressive words ?

No, creativity is for marketing or poetry – this is finance.

I’m a US student currently at Oxford for my junior year. All the applications for the UK offices are online. I know you have already answered the question before, but I don’t want to make any mistakes. So just to clarify:

1. Omit the physical addresses, mine as well as theirs. 2. Omit the recruiters name leaving only the name of the bank 3. Omit the signature 4. Do not enclose resume since that is a separate attachment

Thanks so much in advance.

Hie ,i realy luv ur advice!.,Im doing a Bsc in Financial modelling with UNISA.is this a good start for a career in investment banking?.i finish next year, could u tell wat i can do to make myself marketable after graduation.

Honestly, I’m not sure on that one because I’m not familiar with the school. If a lot of banks recruit there, it’s fine; otherwise you should transfer elsewhere.

Its University of SouthAfrica ,im also staying in Africa.is there something i could do 2 giv me an added advantage over my coleagues?.

This article has some tips on South Africa: https://mergersandinquisitions.com/investment-banking-south-africa/

Hey M&I,

What’s your take on headlines (i.e.Application for IB Analyst) and postscripts? I’ve heard from many friends to add them on because they will grab attention. But then again, they aren’t going into banking.

Thanks, Mack

Not applicable for banking

i will be applying to merrill lynch. In the template, you stated many of the internship and job roles that provide the skills required to be a great investment analyst. However, i was just wondering, if i have a perfect gpa, perfect sats score, how can i use these to my advantage in my cover letter?

You can’t really, just list them and be done with it – no point in trying to emphasize those because there’s not much to say and they speak for themselves.

Hi, If the firm’s online application says “you can only attach one file: this should contain your CV, cover letter and any other materials relevant for the position”, does it mean in the word document file I upload, the 1st page is resume, the 2nd page is cover letter and the 3rd is transcript? It looks pretty strange because the document is gonna be 4-5 pages. But since they only allow me to upload one file, I’m not sure what to do with the cover letter and the transcript. Or can I just omit them and attach the resume document only? Thanks a ton.

I would not send the transcript unless they specifically ask for it, otherwise just create a 2-page file with your cover letter and CV

First of all, great website! It’s really helpful and I think you guys are doing a great job.

I am visually impaired, however I have always followed regular education and have performed like anybody else (also in jobs, at associations, etc). Many banks stress their emphasis on diversity and now I am wondering if I should include this fact in my cover letter / online application? On the one hand I feel it would fit great into the whole “what are you most proud of”-question, but I am also scared it might work against me?

Please note I’m applying London, not NY. (I think European regulations might differ from US-ones). I go to a European target school.

Personally I would not list it on your CV / cover letter / online application, but maybe bring it up in an interview if it fits in naturally.

Hi Brian, I was beginning to start writing coverletters–atleast get them going, but I’m confused on where to find the unique strength of each BB, which makes it diff from its competitions. One of the things which makes a good cover letter is that its specific to a firm, but I dont know how to find such information. For instance, I was looking at MS, Barclays website in the section ,’Why MS’ or ‘Why Barclays’, and it seems every firm had the same agenda. We are committed to diversity , team player etc. Obv I need to go into more depth than this. Brian where I can find information specific to each BB on their website? I would really appreciate it. Thanks a lot.

You should read the WSJ Deal Journal blog and look for recent mentions of the bank and what deals they have been advising on – then reference those in the cover letter.

Hi Brian, I’m in a similar position as the above poster. For companies without a personal contact I want to talk about a specific deal they’ve advised on.

I’m just unsure how to formulate such a sentence without encouraging diffcult to answer questions.

E.g. I was thinking of something along the lines of “I was impressed with your company’s role as target advisor in the $X bn acquisition of companyX”

I’m afraid this would result in the question of ‘why were you impressed?’.

Any chance you could give a sample sentence of how you would talk about a deal in a cover letter?

P.S.: Keep up the good work with BIWS, love the constant updates. Highly recommended, well worth the money!

You can say something like “I recently saw news of your role as an advisor in the $X bn acquisition of company X and was immediately interested, since I’ve followed the [X] industry for awhile.”

Hi, I graduated from a target, went to medical school after graduation, but left after two years to pursue a career in investment banking. I now work at a small investment research firm, and I am applying for 2011 analyst class.

How much “explanation” do I need to do in cover letter? Or should I just focus on my job experience and modeling skills?

I don’t think you need much explanation since you quit medicine after 2 years, so just focus on other aspects

Is the physical address at the top still necessary if you’re attaching the cover letter as a .PDF in an online form?

I can’t thank you enough for all these info Brian,

In all honesty, I did have a sudden family death last year for which I had to leave school in the middle of the semester and come back after about two weeks. I got in a lot of psychological stress and uncertainty and I ended up messing up my grades significantly for two semesters. However, I did improve last semester with a full workload (maximum number of credit hours allowed at my school + advanced level classes) and got near 4.0.

How should I mention this on my cover letter? Also, how would I do that on an electronic cover letter which should only be about 4-5 sentences?

Thanks again in advance.

I would just say you had a health issue and had trouble balancing everything, but quickly learned your lesson and received perfect grades right after that. Giving a family excuse sounds fake so I would probably not write that even if it’s true.

Thanks but the thing is that wasn’t my freshman year. It was my sophomore year. So I did well my freshman year than poorly as a sophomore and improved as a junior.

Also, what about the electronic cover letter? Would it be ok to take up some sentences to explain my situation?

Just say you did poorly “at first” and then improved and have perfect grades this past year. I would still keep your cover letter short as no one has time to read a lot.

I would appreciate your advice on this.

I’m a senior at a target school in Far East Asia. It’s really tough to get into a BB here and I’m thinking of visiting each BB and handing them my resume and cover letter to ask for a junior equity research position. I doubt I’d be able to personally meet the head of research or a senior analyst without prior arrangement, so I’d be probably handing my resume and cover letter to HR. I need to stand out but I have no equity research internship experience. What I do have, is a equity S&T internship at a BB and a RA (intern) at a top-tier mgmt. consulting firm. Plus experience managing a personal portfolio and trading derivatives in notable amounts.

Now, my problem is this. I made it to the final round for a junior ER position at GS but unfortunately was not given the offer (the offer ended up going to someone with some full-time experience in ER; had I been competing against fresh-out-of-college candidates would the result have been different?). I would like to mention this in my resume or cover letter hoping that it would serve as evidence that I’m really interested in ER and that I have the potential. But I’m worried that this might send the wrong signal. Who would like to accept a candidate knowing that he was unsuccessful elsewhere? I’m worried that I might appear arrogant in their eyes. I’m thinking of visiting CS, UBS, Citi, MS, ML, JPM, etc. In ER here in Asia, they’re at least at par with GS if not better…

I realize that answer to this may depend on the culture here. Please advise. Thanks.

I would not mention an unsuccessful interview with GS for the reasons you mentioned.

Hi Brian! Long time reader, first time poster. I’m currently a rising senior at a target school on the tale end of my internship at a strong boutique bank in New York. I only have one week left, and I’ve been given zero modeling opportunities. I’m very disappointed. I figure that I should ask for some modeling work. But I have some questions.

1) Does it reflect poorly in interviews for full-time that I didn’t do any modeling? Should I “stretch” the truth?

2) Do you have any other relevant comments about doing a junior year internship and not getting any modeling experience? I’m concerned with how this hurts my full-time credentials, how this might affect my resume, and how overall my standing will decrease relative to my peers because I didn’t get modeling experience.

It’s quite common not to have modeling experience… just say you did research and assisted with potential clients / potential buy-side deals but don’t say anything about modeling. Most people do no modeling in their internships so it doesn’t matter much anyway.

What’s a better part-time fall internship, BB PWM or no-name boutique (I mean no name.. say 3-7 employees)?

Both are about the same, but the boutique is better for your resume because you can write “Investment Banking Analyst”

off-topic question:

I often read though it’s June interviews are still taking place.

When do banks in America/Europe begin accepting applications for: 1) summer interns (analyst) 2) full-time (analyst/associate)

Is the end of a summer intern equivalent to the end of the full-time offer application period? Because ppl. might are offered a full-time offer after their summer intern.

To put it in a nutshell: When is recruting/application time generally?

Summer interns are December/January, full-time is August-September.

And when do you start as summer intern, when u successfully applied in dec/jan or successfully applied for aug/sep?

Summer interns usually start in June

This post reminded me of the classic cover letter to Lehman that was on Leveraged Sellout. I tried to see it, but it appears LSO has shutdown. Is this the case? Are the days of re-reading the same, hilarious stories over?

I don’t know because it’s not my site, but yes it appears to be down. Maybe check the google cache.

Thanks for the release of this article, much appreciated.

Curious on an unrelated question though, when you try to develop relationships with bankers and do the initial outreach to set up an information interview, how far ahead should you plan? I mean should you give them dates within the week you email, 2 weeks ahead, etc?

Also, for specific time slots you ask for, what time is it usually best for a banker to talk to someone about that? Like early morning, late night, right after lunch, etc?

Thanks again, H

Give dates within the next 1.5 weeks so they have a few days to respond. Usually right after lunch is best for bankers, for traders you have to call after market hours are over

Hi Brian, Thanks for the website, I have a quick question for you. I am in one of the new Masters in Finance/Management programs. I am at a target school for undergrad/MBA (think UNC/Duke/UVA). However, since the program is very new, banks don’t know much about it. Aditionally, although I have had some Wealth Management internship experience, I don’t have an I-Banking internship.

Given my situation, do you think it is better for me (in terms of B-school and exit opportunities) to go into a top ten consulting firm (excluding MBB) or try for mid-market/boutique investment banks (My school is very good in placing people in consulting), assuming I don’t get into a BB. I ultimately want to end up in PE or HF (preferably PE).

Thanks for your help.

I would still say banking because consulting –> PE is very tough unless you go for firms like Golden Gate Capital that hire a lot of ex-consultants… and even there they’re mostly from MBB. Much easier to go from smaller bank –> PE than to go from smaller consulting firm –> PE.

Should I mention the fact that my company is in F500? It’s know in Europe, but I doubt it is known in North America.

You can add it in, yes

I don’t have any inside experience about the recruiting process, but a friend/colleague of mine (BB) mentioned that while recruiting for regional european branches/off-cycle internships often look at the cover letter, they almost never do it for summer positions in London.

Everyone seems to have different stories re: cover letters, but they are certainly less important than resumes, networking, or interviews

What about for laterals?

Same template applies but talk about how your previous banking experience applies to the new position you’re applying for

I appreciate your template for its compactness, I understand I shouldnt overestimate the competition, but Im trying to sell myself to the recruiter, so simply mentioning my skills and experience will not differentiate me from the “competitor”…?

I personally dont have so much experience in the finance realm (although Im genuinely interested in it and have managed to get a ten day insight into a BB) so do you encourage mentioning transferable skills I acquired through extra curricular activities, ie football = teamwork, etc, etc…

Cover letters are not really the place to “sell” yourself, which is why this is short… much safer to keep it boring and then do the selling via networking / interviews.

I know this is supposed to be basic, but the first paragraph is pretty useless. Your name, university/job position and contact details will already be on your resume so what’s the point in wasting time and space repeating the details on your cover letter. Also, saying “I am interested in pursuing an [Investment Banking Analyst / Associate] position at your firm” is also somewhat redundant, since the recruiter knows what position you’re applying for.

The template is good as a starting point, but on the off chance someone actually does read your cover letter, I would try to do a lot more than just make redundant statements.

This template is for both email and traditional letters… and in email it’s certainly not redundant. Even with traditional letters you are introducing new information by giving the name of the person you met at their firm as well as your major / where you’re working more specifically.

so do you expect the same stats as what you have written for the resume template? A given population, and a limited percentage will download it, and even a limited percentage will copy it word for word?

Cheers, thanks for all the great info!

In the grand scheme of things, yes – online a lot of people use these templates but most people who apply to banks do not use them.

I’m currently a rising junior at a semi target looking to be a SA next summer. This past summer I interned at a discount brokerage firm but had significant responsibilities (they didn’t have to hire an additional broker because of me) and got a lot of experience and face time with clients.

I have an opportunity to apply for a PWM internship for the fall with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. Should I continue with my current internship through the fall or would it look better to move to the more distinguished name? I imagine the work would be similar. thanks

Go to the better name

nice template, it sure will be easier for internationals like me to write one now. thanks.

Thank you for the cover letter template.

“If you’re making the body of your email the cover letter, make it even shorter (4-5 sentences total) and cut out the address bits at the top.”

Do you mean we should drastically cut down the entire 4 paragraph cover letter into 4-5 sentences?

Yes, make it so they don’t have to scroll much (if at all) when reading on a Blackberry. 1-2 sentence intro, 2 sentences on your work experience and how it makes you fit for the job and then 1 sentence conclusion.

A nicely put article! Anyway, I like the new template for the website too!

A question that is unrelated to the article:

How far does an interviewer expect you to know in a previous live deal that you were previously involved in as an INTERN? I mean really, to be fair, often times, even if interns are being put into live deals, they are only doing menial works (including me), such as researching, data mining, presentation slides building, etc.

How far of financial analysis would the interviewer expect you to know?

Also, in terms of financial modeling, you’ve said it before that it is the kind of work that everyone should want to be exposed to. But what if the financial modeling is not for a live deal, but for a potential deal? Would it still look better than the menial works in live deals?

Thank you! You have no idea how helpful you have been.

They expect you to know what you indicate you know… so don’t set expectations very high. And yes any type of modeling work is better than menial tasks

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3 Investment Banking Cover Letter Examples Made in 2024 

• Investment Banking Cover Letter
• Investment Banking Internship Cover Letter
• Investment Banking Analyst Cover Letter
• Write Your Investment Banking Cover Letter

Identifying investment opportunities is where you shine. Risk and return profiles are identified, valuations are completed, and acquisitions are performed successfully with you on the job.

But have you invested enough time writing a cover letter that complements your investment banking resume and helps land your next job?

We’ll help you get started with our investment banking cover letter examples . They’ll provide an easy template for success and, when coupled with our AI cover letter generator, will ensure you stand out in this results-driven field.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

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Block Format

Copy this text for your investment banking cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue New Orleans, LA 70112 (123) 456-7890

October 01, 2023

Ethan Davis Capital One Securities 123 Fictional Lane New Orleans, LA 70112

Dear Mr. Davis:

As a fervent believer in the power of data-driven decision making in my professional career and personal investment endeavors, I spend my evenings studying financial market trends and identifying potential opportunities when I’m not engrossed in aiding clients in reaching their financial goals. Pairing my passion for finance with my keen understanding of various industry nuances, I am excited to join Capital One Securities as an investment banking associate.

During my tenure at UBS, I honed my expertise in data analysis, using advanced tools like Python and Excel to sort through vast amounts of information. I successfully identified vital investment opportunities that contributed to the growth and diversification of portfolios, thereby increasing the company’s average annual return on investment by 8.2%.

As a financial analyst at Valmiki 504, also based in New Orleans, I dove headfirst into financial statement analysis, scrutinizing balance sheets, cash flow, and income statements. Consequently, my analysis contributed to improvements in client portfolio performance, with a 6.7% increase in average annual returns.

Being involved in numerous Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) deals as part of the strategic financial advisory team at Dorsey & Company, I implemented a systematic approach to risk analysis and valuations. My prowess in executing due diligence and navigating financial models was instrumental in securing successful deals for the advisors. Our team collectively increased completed M&A transactions by 9.4% during my time there, benefiting clients through synergistic growth.

I am eager to leverage my enthusiasm and skillset to augment Capital One Securities’ position at the forefront of the financial sector. I look forward to discussing how my expertise can contribute to the growth and continued success of Capital One Securities and its client base. Thank you.

Liam Andersen

Enclosures: Resume Application Academic Transcript

Why this cover letter works

• Follow this with a compelling narrative of relevant work experiences , backing up impacts made in previous workplaces using numbers, percentages, and revenues. Skills such as data analysis, financial statement and risk analysis, and software Python and Excel should suffice in your piece.

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Investment Banking Internship Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your investment banking internship to your cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue New York City, NY 10001 (123) 456-7890

Liam Harris JPMorgan Chase & Co. 123 Fictional Lane New York City, NY 10001

Dear Mr. Harris:

Influenced by the allure of the world of finance and its complex interplay of numbers, I spend my leisure hours tracking global economic indicators when I’m not thoroughly engrossed in my academic pursuit of finance. This fascination for finance and my keen interest in building personalized investment portfolios ignited my enthusiasm to be part of JPMorgan Chase & Co. as an investment banking valuation intern.

During my time at New York University, I honed my skills in Python to analyze complex financial datasets, proving instrumental to our team’s success in the annual Love Data Week competition. The models I developed contributed to us outperforming 52+ teams and winning by a margin of 3.2%.

As a research Intern at the NYU Stern School of Business, utilizing tools like Bloomberg Terminal and FactSet, I completed a research project on the impact of modern trade wars on international markets. The efforts culminated in a published paper that was well-received in academia.

Additionally, my coursework in statistical analysis spurred my interest in predicting financial trends. By employing these skills, I earned the second spot in the college’s annual forecast challenge, predicting S&P 500 performance with an accuracy level of 92.3%.

The idea of playing an indispensable part at the trailblazing vanguard of the finance industry exhilarates me to no end. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in detail at your earliest convenience. Thank you.

Zara Jafari

• Of course, the majority of your piece will focus on academic accomplishments. But don’t just highlight your technical know-how. Briefly narrate instances where you translated classroom knowledge into tangible impact during class projects, competitions, simulations, and possibly an internship or volunteer program.

Investment Banking Analyst Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your investment banking analyst cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Memphis, TN 38101 (123) 456-7890

Ava Wilson First Horizon National Corporation 123 Fictional Lane Memphis, TN 38101

Dear Ms. Wilson:

Responding to First Horizon National Corporation’s compelling belief that creating new horizons is critical to client success, I am eager to join your dynamic team of innovators as your next investment banking analyst. Firmly believing in the heightened potential that emerges when diverse insights merge and align toward a shared financial goal, I welcome the opportunity to collaborate with your team of skilled analysts and finance experts.

One of my skills, Comparable Company Analysis (CCA), helped me carve a significant niche at Raymond James. By applying such in-depth analyses, I was able to implement strategies that led to an annual yield increase of 7.3% for our locally focused portfolios, demonstrating the power of well-applied industry knowledge. Moreover, proficiency in pitch book preparation has augmented my communicative prowess, allowing me to clearly convey complex financial narratives. This proficiency manifested in more than just words, driving a 16.4% growth in local investments by effectively showcasing our value propositions to Memphis clients.

My firm grasp of capital structure analysis further complements these core competencies. Using Bloomberg Terminal and FactSet, I dissected intricate financial data at NewSouth Capital Management, which eventually reduced client portfolios’ cost of capital by 14.7%.

As seen from my history of aiding Memphis-based organizations like Bluff City Coffee & Bakery and Medtronic, I am committed to building solid relationships and paving ways for clients to reach their long-term financial objectives seamlessly.

Inspired and motivated by First Horizon’s dedication to guiding its clients toward fruitful opportunities, I look forward to contributing to your mission. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing how my experiences and skills could further bolster the growth of First Horizon National Corporation.

Nina Petrovic

• Go ahead and show off your professional arsenal (cue comparable company analysis, pitch book preparation, or capital structure analysis). Weaving in quantifiable wins, like an annual yield increase of 7.3%, anchors your credibility.

Related cover letter examples

• Investment banking resume
• Financial analyst
• Bank teller
• Account manager

How to Format Investment Banking Cover Letter

When optimizing a client’s investment portfolio, you always ensure you account for their specific needs and financial situation to get them the best results. Take a similar approach to your investment banking cover letter. 

The job description will help you succeed here. It’ll outline the company’s mission and the top investment banking skills they’re looking for so you can include them in your cover letter to stand out.

For instance, you could explain how you’ll use your negotiation skills to help an automotive company continue expanding its market while achieving its goal of bringing fair vehicle prices to consumers.

Investment banking cover letter introduction

When meeting a client for the first time, you’d want to learn their name to instantly create a connection. You should do the same in your investment banking cover letter by trying to address a specific hiring manager by name, if you can find it in the job description or the company website.

Then, once you get into the opening paragraph, grab attention by referencing your passion for the company’s mission and the top skills they’re looking for, like financial modeling or using the Bloomberg Suite.

The example below will show you a cover letter that gets off to a good start but falls short when they don’t get into any specifics about the company’s investment banking needs.

Needs more details!

Dear Ms. Tyson,

I was pleased to see the investment banking opportunity your company has available. With my seven years of experience in the financial field, I believe I’ll be the right fit for your company’s needs.

An opener like the one below is a better option that relates directly to the applicant’s enthusiasm for First Horizon National Corporation’s dynamic and innovative investment banking team. 

A compelling and detailed opener!

Dear Ms. Wilson,

Investment banking cover letter body

Data is a crucial part of the decisions you make as an investment banker. It’s also pretty important to help you write a successful cover letter.

One of the best ways to optimize your body paragraphs is by sharing examples using metrics. For instance, you could explain how you used your market forecasting skills to help a portfolio of 125 clients grow their earnings by an average of 34% annually.

If you don’t have much work experience , you could also write about how your education in finance, accounting, or other related fields has equipped you for the role. For example, you could talk about how you analyzed statements of cash flows with 98% accuracy during your managerial accounting course.

A great body paragraph with data-driven performance!

Investment banking cover letter closing

After you wrap up a meeting with a client, you’d want to relate back to what you covered to ensure they’re up to speed on the next steps you’ll take when optimizing their investment portfolio. You should do the same with the closing of your cover letter by relating back to the essential job skills you emphasized, like private equity and market analysis, and how you connect with the company’s mission.

It’s also best practice to thank the hiring manager for their time and close with a light call to action like “I look forward to discussing the needs of this investment banking position with you further.”

The closer below doesn’t quite hit the mark since it’s missing the call to action or any specific details about the investment banking role.

Lacking impact with this one!

I believe my skills and experience will be of great value to your company’s growing investment banking needs. Thank you for taking the time to review my application.

Isaac Martens

A better closer is the one below that directly relates to Capital One Securities’ goal to grow in the financial sector and help its client base succeed. 

An impactful closer relating to the company’s mission! 

I am eager to leverage my enthusiasm and skillset to augment Capital One Securities’ position at the forefront of the financial sector. I look forward to discussing how my expertise can contribute to the growth and continued success of Capital One Securities and its client base. Thank you.

Sincerely, 

One page is the optimal length for investment banking cover letters. If you’re struggling to shorten it, try to focus on the primary needs of each job. For instance, if you’re applying to a commercial investment banking role, your M&A and equity research abilities may be essential to emphasize. 

Your investment banking cover letter should be customized for each job. It’ll help you stand out when applying to one company that works with high-yield bonds and another that specializes in structured financial management so you can present relevant skills for both. 

The best way to make job skills stand out is to include relevant ones to each company’s needs and share metrics-based examples of how you used them successfully in previous jobs. For instance, you could explain how you used S&P Capital IQ to help companies utilize their assets 54% more efficiently. 

Does an investment banking cover letter matter?

How to write a cover letter for investment banking, download the free template, proofreading your investment banking cover letter, interview prep, more resources, investment banking cover letter.

Follow our guide and download our real investment banking cover letter template for an Analyst or Associate level position

At most investment banks , cover letters that accompany resumes are barely read, if read at all.  Applications are typically screened according to your resume , with school and GPA as the first filter.  If you went to a “name” school and have a strong GPA, then your resume and cover letter are read in more detail.  To help you get through the screening process, we’ve created this guide to writing an investment banking cover letter.

Unfortunately, cover letters are often more of an opportunity to make a mistake than an opportunity to impress. Your best bet is to keep your letter short and straightforward, taking care to not say anything too daring or risky.

If you do have something unique to note, a particular value-add, then your cover letter can be a great tool for showcasing it.

Investment banking cover letters are fairly formulaic. The sections below give a breakdown of each of the areas of information that should be included and what information to put in each.

There are three main components to a standard investment banking cover letter:

• Introduction
• Experience & Fit

As we noted before, it’s a simple, straightforward (not fancy) document.

Introduction (one paragraph)

Experience & fit (two paragraphs).

Next, go on to describe whatever relevant experience you have that makes you an ideal candidate for the bank to hire.  This can include work experience, university clubs/associations, certification programs, or other activities .  Try to connect your experience back to investment banking skills such as financial modeling and valuation .

Explaining why you’re a good fit for the firm is very important.  To demonstrate fit, you have to understand the bank’s culture (i.e., the values they talk about externally, which may be different from the actual internal work atmosphere).  It’s important for the recruiter to feel confident that you’ll fit in well with the firm. Therefore, make sure you’ve done your homework and are familiar with the primary values the bank espouses in their marketing materials.

The best way for you to determine if you are a good fit with the bank is to network with people who work there and learn first-hand what the culture is like. Once you know what it’s like, you can make an honest assessment of how close a fit you actually are. In any event, whatever you’re able to glean about the company culture, try to work something into your investment banking cover letter indicating how well you’ll fit in. For example, if you determine that the company is especially focused on providing first-class customer service, you can indicate that you focus on providing the specific kind of service that each individual client wants.

Conclusion (one paragraph)

Finally, wrap things up by reiterating how keen you are to work at the bank, why you’re well-suited, and pointing out that you’ve enclosed your resume and are reachable at your contact information to discuss the opportunity. The conclusion is an almost pure formula section. No real new information should be presented there. Simply tie up everything you said in the first two sections.

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Thank you for reading CFI’s guide to writing your investment banking cover letter. Please be sure to download our free template and see our additional  (free!) resources below to help you land a job in IB:

• Investment banking resume
• Investment banking vs equity research
• Interactive career map
• Guide to financial modeling
• See all career resources
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Investment Banking Cover Letter Template

Free cover letter template to help you break into Investment Banking (IB)

Mr. Arora is an experienced private equity investment professional, with experience working across multiple markets. Rohan has a focus in particular on consumer and business services transactions and operational growth. Rohan has also worked at Evercore, where he also spent time in private equity advisory.

Rohan holds a BA (Hons., Scholar) in Economics and Management from Oxford University.

Chris currently works as an investment associate with Ascension Ventures, a strategic healthcare venture fund that invests on behalf of thirteen of the nation's leading health systems with $88 billion in combined operating revenue. Previously, Chris served as an investment analyst with New Holland Capital, a hedge fund-of-funds  asset management  firm with $20 billion under management, and as an investment banking analyst in  SunTrust Robinson Humphrey 's Financial Sponsor Group.

Chris graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and earned a Master of Finance (MSF) from the Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis.

• Investment Banking Cover Letter Template: Advice From The WSO Community

Why Do Cover Letters Matter?

• Less Is More For Cover Letters

The Hail Mary Cover Letter

• WSO Cover Letter Template

Attached at the bottom of this post is the FREE investment banking cover letter template that is sometimes used for WSO cover letter review clients.

We have decided to make it free to help those of you that can't afford a more tailored service .

This cover letter template uses bullets to keep the points succinct and format easy to read .

You'll also notice that the header matches the WSO  investment banking resume template format.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Template: Advice from the WSO Community

Here's what you need to know about the IB cover letters from our community.

CompBanker: The cover letter holds almost no weight, other than to put you at risk for being dinged. Make it very simple, very bland, and just say all the usual things. If you have mistakes in it or make outrageous claims, your cover letter will be circulated and laughed at.

Like @CompBanker said, you won't get the interview with your cover letter .

Your goal for the cover letter isn't to single-handedly land you an interview with your eloquence and grandiose; it's to check the box and make sure it's proper enough that it doesn't get you dinged .

The Only Program You Need to Land in High Finance Careers

The most comprehensive curriculum and support network to break into high finance.

Less Is More for Cover Letters

Our users shared great input on why 'less is more' when it comes to cover letters.

bkm125: What you really want people to be looking at is the resume. The longer your cover letter is the larger the chance that you'll have a typo or say something stupid. Just tell them what job you're applying for, who you've been in touch with at the firm, and maybe a few sentences about your qualifications and lock up the deal with a solid resume.

K.I.S.S: Keep It Simple Stupid.

Mention who you've talked to at the firm , your interest in the job, your qualifications , and briefly (very briefly) explain any gaps in your resume .

Avoid excuses , more on this later.

Two or three paragraphs is all you need for that. Any more than that , and you're giving them potential reasons to ding you .

Here's some great advice from @blackice".

blackice: The best thing you can do is name drop people you have talked to. That way I know you have done your homework, and I can ask the person you talked to how your chat was. I think cover letters are better when they are focused on your past work experience as opposed to general and arbitrary sentiments about how you are a "hard worker and team player with a strict attention to detail".

If you've talked to someone at the firm and they'd remember you, DO namedrop them in your cover letter.

Common Cover Letter Mistakes

Here are some of the usual mistakes candidates make in their cover letter as mentioned by our member @qonnect.me.

This is an example of an excuse in a cover letter:

"I realize I have more professional experience in technology than in finance. I believe that was just due to bad luck due to graduating from my MBA program at the height of the 'Great Recession '. However, I am 100% committed and motivated to prove myself in a finance position."

Bad luck? No, it's the shitty and difficult-to-read resume , cover letter , and 'research reports' that are the issue .

What goes on in the recruiters head: I'm almost certain you would be a terrible employee just by the quality of the work you sent me in a cold email . You graduated from college 10 years ago, by the way. I remember at least a few of those as being pretty good years. If you were halfway decent, you could have squeaked in the industry in more than a few of those years.

Please do not pin all of your circumstance on luck , especially in a cover letter .

Even if the reader is a big believer in luck , you're telling him you're unlucky .

Who wants to hire someone who's unlucky? It seems the bad luck streak started in utero, if you ask us.

Revealing Your Ignorance:

Even worse than just plain ignorance, is the below quote from an attached research report that a candidate had written. Since he thought it was worth including, I assume the report was something he was proud of, but it was cringe-worthy.

"I am placing a STRONG BUY recommendation on [company]. ("ticker") and believe that [the company], at the current price of $10.00, trades at a 123% discount to my estimated fair market value of $22.30" (Both made up numbers to scale to the actual numbers listed in the 'report')

The report should have never been attached .

It made a weak applicant look even worse . He's clearly never done anything but 'book learn' on these subjects. It's painfully obvious by reading the report. He uses four valuation methodologies on the stock with the sole intention of showing that he knows more than one valuation method .

If you're thinking of including a research report on a company when you're cold emailing people, it's a high-risk strategy. Your research probably sucks unless you've been doing it professionally. If there is any doubt at all about including a 'research report', do not do it.

Side note: The research report had a lot of opinions and not a lot of facts, and it lacked connections between really basic facts about the current state of the business to the 'projections'.

If you don't think you have a chance to get the job, you can toss a Hail Mary with your cover letter .

Here's a cover letter an audacious undergrad used in an effort to stand out and grab the attention of its reader .

A big swing that's either a hit or miss . We don't recommend using this cover letter unless you lack the slightest chance of getting the interview in the first place.

Dear BLOCKED, My name is (BLOCKED), and I am an undergraduate finance student at (BLOCKED). I met you the summer before last at Smith & Wollensky's in New York when I was touring the east coast with my uncle, (BLOCKED). I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to talk with me that night. I am writing to inquire about a possible summer internship in your office. I am aware it is highly unusual for undergraduates from average universities like (BLOCKED) to intern at (BLOCKED), but nevertheless, I was hoping you might make an exception. I am extremely interested in investment banking and would love nothing more than to learn under your tutelage. I have no qualms about fetching coffee, shining shoes, or picking up laundry, and will work for next to nothing. In all honesty, I just want to be around professionals in the industry and gain as much knowledge as I can. I won't waste your time inflating my credentials, throwing around exaggerated job titles, or feeding you a line of crap (sic) about how my past experiences and skill set align perfectly for an investment banking internship . The truth is I have no unbelievably special skills or genius eccentricities, but I do have a near perfect GPA and will work hard for you. I've interned for Merrill Lynch in the Wealth Management Division and taken an investment banking class at (BLOCKED), for whatever that is worth. I am currently awaiting admission results for (BLOCKED) Masters of Science in Accountancy program, which I would begin this fall if admitted. I am also planning on attending law school after my master's program, which we spoke about in New York. I apologize for the blunt nature of my letter, but I hope you seriously consider taking me under your wing this summer. I have attached my resume for your review. Feel free to call me at (BLOCKED) or email at (BLOCKED). Thank you for your time. Sincerely, BLOCKED.

Interested in Investment Banking - Breaking In

If you want to break into investment banking, you need to be well-prepared for the technical aspects of the interview. We advise you to check out our  Free Investment Banking Interview Guide  first, before investing in  our paid course , so that you have an idea of what to expect.

Two common mistakes that candidates make while recruiting for IB: 

• Using phrasing like "After my summer analyst stint, I learned the entire deal execution process...", "I am extremely proficient in Excel and financial modeling ...", etc. You get the idea. Be confident, but don't over-emphasize anything out of the scope of your ability to speak to it.
• Not enough emphasis on teamwork. This is important. People should know that you are able to work with others. This is easy to incorporate, just give a brief two sentence overview of what your team structure was and why it made sense.

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Investment Banking cover letter example

You’re the person in the know — the Big Cheese. As an investment banker, you let your analytical mind and strong expertise lead the way. You’re confident when it comes to helping clients raise the capital they need to expand their businesses. You have a way with numbers, and you’re not afraid to share it with the right people. If that sounds right, you might need an investment banking cover letter to take your next step on the career ladder. 

Chances are, you have a wealth of experience and skills you’re ready to shout about. However, cover letter real estate is limited. You need to keep this letter to one page, or around 300 words. That can be a tall order, especially when you’ve got a lot to say. 

Here at Resume.io, we have everything you need to help accelerate your job search. We offer expert-backed writing guides, 180+ cover letter examples, and a whole host of templates too. Within this writing guide, and the cover letter example, we will break down: 

• How to select the best format for your investment banking cover letter
• How to boost the impact of each section (header, greeting, intro, body, and conclusion)
• What approach and tone you should take when writing your cover letter
• The basic mistakes you need to know about and avoid here.

Best format for an investment banking cover letter

Before you can start working on your investment banking cover letter, you need to know how the structure works. Luckily, there are some key sections that it should include. The format of an investment banking cover letter should contain the following elements:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting/salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

Sticking to this cover letter format is the best way to go. Put simply, it stops you from writing a rambling letter that seems to have no point. As you work your way through the cover letter, tick off each of the parts we have highlighted. In the next part of this guide, we will offer expert advice on what you can include in each of the above sections too. 

Of course, should you want more in-depth details on how to perfectly pitch your application, you can read our comprehensive cover letter guide now. Making sure that your letter captures the interest and imagination of a hiring manager has never been easier. 

Dear Mr. East, 

My early career as an investment banking analyst has taught me the essentials of value investing, equity research, and financial modeling of positions. I have worked on 20 accounts over the past three years. My work on the Jenkins valuation concluded that it was 45% undervalued and we made $12.5m on the resultant trade. 

Following my degree in computer science, I have embraced the latest AI predictive technologies in my work and collaborated on the award-winning Lastwell project. My extensive input on the $750m Killigan M&A was centered around AI analysis of business synergies that resulted in up to 20% efficiency savings in some areas. 

I have significant experience with IPOs, supporting initializations for 10+ technology companies to varying degrees. I was mainly involved with the risk management desk, creating models that underpinned their strategy propositions. I completed my MBA whilst working on the HalTech IPO, with my dissertation written in collaboration with their Financial Director. 

I am excited at the prospect of joining the Mulling team as you have an excellent reputation for developing your analysts – particularly in the international area. I speak fluent Arabic and would love to work on your growing Middle East desk. Cultural appreciation is vital to building lasting relationships and I know that my background will prove an asset to you. 

I look forward to the potential of an interview to hear more about your analyst program. Your head of L&D Sarah Fuller is a previous colleague and has been encouraging me to apply for a while. 

Sincerely, 

Mark Braceton

Cover letter header

The cover letter heading sits at the top of the page when you’re writing your application. It should include your name, email, and phone number. While this is hardly the most enthralling part of the document, it plays an important role. If a hiring manager is wowed by your application (and they should be!), they will want to get in touch with you quickly. 

Displaying your contact details front and center makes that simple for them. Ensure that this information is clear and easy to read. As a golden rule, you should use a plain font in a legible size. That way, the reader should have no problem gaining the details they need. 

Cover letter greeting 

If you’re applying for a role in the world of investment banking, you should know your stuff. When it comes to the cover letter greeting, it’s best practice to use the hiring manager’s full name. You may already know who is recruiting for the position. If that is not clear on the job advert or LinkedIn post, you might need to grab your detective’s hat and get to work. When you have the name, write it as follows in the letter: “Dear Mr. Smittons.”

Of course, there will be some cases when the hiring manager’s name remains a mystery. Should that happen, you need to avoid the cliche of “To whom it may concern.” That won’t do you any favors.  Instead, go for a more specialized approach, e.g. “Dear [company] team.” You want to make it clear that this is a tailored cover letter, not just a generic one.

Cover letter introduction 

Once you have greeted the hiring manager, the next step is to write your hook. The introduction of your cover letter should pique the reader’s interest. So, what is it that sets you apart from other candidates? Put your best foot forward. Take a moment to consider what your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is and highlight it in your opening lines. 

There are a few routes you can choose here. For example, you may want to focus on the fact that you have experience working in a similar setting. Alternatively, you could switch your attention to the expert training you have received or any specialist qualifications. 

If possible, you should quantify your experiences. For instance, you might say that you “deliver client results with 99.9% accuracy” — rather than just saying you “deliver results.” You will be going up against a wide array of eligible candidates. For that reason, you should do everything you can to differentiate yourself from the rest of the talent pool. For inspiration, check out our investment banking cover letter example.

Cover letter middle part (body) 

The middle paragraphs of cover letters are where the magic happens. By now, you should have already sparked interest in the reader’s mind. It’s time to use your best storytelling to explain why you are the perfect candidate for the job. Since you are applying for a highly professional and sought-after role, be sure to use a formal and mature tone throughout. 

Don’t make the mistake of simply regurgitating your resume — the hiring manager will have access to that. Instead, in these paragraphs, use the opportunity to state your case. You may choose to expand upon the experience listed in your resume or focus on the achievements you have gained over the years. You may choose to share work-based anecdotes that add color to your experience while also demonstrating your core abilities. 

When you have covered the above, you may also want to delve into what drives you. What made you decide to become an investment banker? What aspirations do you have for the future? Showing the reader that you are passionate about this sector may win you points.

On a fundamental level, you need to make it clear that you would fit right into the business. If you have done your research — about both the opening and the bank — you will be able to tailor your cover letter accordingly. Be crystal clear about what it is you have to bring to the business and how you envision that working out. Go ahead and paint a picture. 

How to close an investment banking cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

When you’ve clearly explained why you’re the right candidate for the job, all that there’s left to do is sign off. You can conclude your cover letter in one or two sentences. These should be strong, confident, and have an air of enthusiasm about them. After all, this is your last chance to show the hiring manager that you are worth a second look. 

Start by affirming that you have the appropriate experience and skills to hit the ground running in this position. You can also include a Call to Action (CTA) directed toward the hiring manager. For example, you may say “I look forward to the prospect of sharing my thoughts with you in a formal interview.” That message shows that you are optimistic about your chances of getting to the next stage while avoiding making any presumptions. 

Another angle is to leave the hiring manager wanting more. For instance, you might say that you can expand on certain ideas during the interview. Keep your sign-off short and succinct. The clearer the message is here, the more likely you are to get an interview.  

Investment banking cover letter with no experience

New to investment banking? If you want to dip your toes into this pool, you may worry that you lack experience. While there’s no space to expand upon this on your resume, your cover letter gives you some creative freedom. Here are some tips to consider: 

• Focus on your education and any training you have undertaken
• Delve into why you want to become an investment banker
• Touch upon your transferable skills from prior work positions
• Include anecdotes that demonstrate your understanding of finances
• Stress that you have a willingness to learn and develop yourself
• Mention any extracurricular activities that align with the sector

Breaking into this sector can be tough. However, you can use your cover letter to persuade a hiring manager to take a chance on you, despite your lack of experience.  

Basic mistakes in an investment banking application letter (and how to avoid them)

If you’ve read the rest of our writing guide, you should be in a decent position to start working on your cover letter. Nothing should hold you back — least of all silly mistakes. Let’s take a look at some of the basic cover letter errors you need to avoid: 

• Grammar and spelling mistakes. Before you hit that “send” button, you need to make sure you have proofread the letter. You can also use free software, such as Grammarly, to double-check the document.
• Using too much jargon! While the hiring manager may be comfortable with the industry terminology, you shouldn’t take this for granted. Whenever possible, ensure that you use plain, clear language to get your message across.
• Pitching the tone incorrectly. There’s no room for colloquial language or slang here. When you’re writing your cover letter, make sure you are professional at all times.

Key takeaways

• Your investment banking cover letter should be no more than one page long. Aim for roughly 300 words and edit down if you have to.
• Show the hiring manager that you are a real professional by using formal language.
• Wherever possible, highlight examples and anecdotes that highlight your talents.
• Optimize your cover letter for the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and beat the bots. Pepper your cover letter with keywords from the original job specification.

Want to give yourself a competitive edge? Getting the look of your application just right is a smart place to start. Take all of the hassle out of this task by using one of our field-tested cover letter templates. The next step on the career ladder could be just a click away. 

If you’re looking for some more inspiration on how to position your application, take a look at our related cover letter examples here: 

• Banking cover letter sample
• Finance cover letter sample 
• Finance manager cover letter sample
• Accounting and finance cover letter sample
• Finance assistant cover letter example
• Bank manager cover letter example
• Financial advisor cover letter sample

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Investment Banking Cover Letter [Examples, Template & Tips]

In this article, we’ll cover:

Investment Banking Cover Letter Examples

How to write an investment banking cover letter, investment banking cover letter template, tips on how to write a cover letter for investment banking.

An investment banker or investment banking analyst’s major responsibilities include raising capital for businesses and individuals by issuing debt and selling equity, overseeing mergers, conducting research, and preparing legal and financial documents.

Want to get into investment banking? Well, you’re in for a fierce competition. To boost your application, make sure your investment banking cover letter pitches yourself effectively to future employers.

We’re going to guide you on how to craft a top-notch how to write a cover letter for investment banking jobs.

General investment banking cover letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

My name is Kellie Huang - a recent MBA graduate from National Taiwan University. I was introduced to your firm via Professor Kuo and was excited to see the junior investment analyst opening at your firm, Barclays. With my educational background and former Morgan Stanley internship experience, I believe that I would make an excellent fit for this role. 

During my previous internship and Morgan Stanley, my main tasks included preparing marketing materials for M&A and capital-raising engagements, conducting industry and company-specific research, maintaining accurate records on funding sources, and developing written materials, including offering memorandum and new business presentations. Through this internship program, I have gained strong modeling and analysis skills as well as the ability to work effectively either in a team or independently.  

Barclays is known in the industry for providing comprehensive financial, advisory, and capital-raising services, which makes me look forward to joining and contributing to your firm.

I have attached my resume for your further review of my qualifications. I would welcome an opportunity to further discuss how my skills and experience could help Barclays in an interview. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Kind regards, Kellie Huang

[email protected] linkedin.com/kelliehuang95 (+886)-555-9999

Investment banking internship cover letter

Dear Mr. Steven,

My name is Nathan L. Reynolds - a final year student majoring in Finance at UT Austin. I’m writing in support of my application for the Investment Banking Summer Analyst Program at Cowen where I would love to pursue my dream and build my career.

My fascination with finance and banking started at an early age, which motivates me to enroll in UT Austin and enables me to complete the Insights Programme for first-year students at McKinsey. The program gave me exposure to the fundamentals of financial analysis and modeling, value interest, and equity research. I am also predicted to graduate with first-class honors since I have an excellent record of academic achievement, with 8 A* and 2 A grades at the GCSE level. 

Besides that, I'm an active participant in many clubs and organizations which demonstrates the team player skills you are looking for.

An opportunity to complete the internship at Cowen would be a dream come true for me. I would be happy to answer any questions you have in person or online, at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration!

Sincerely, Nathan L. Reynolds

15 Live Oak Street, Austin, TX 78746  [email protected] (+361)-993-5566

Goldman Sachs cover letter

Chaikerra Guice 21138 Chadbourne Trace Lane, Richmond, TX 77407 (281)-220-9084  [email protected]

September 19, 2023

Dear Goldman Sachs Hiring Manager,

After reviewing on handshake your job description about the Summer Analyst opportunity at Goldman Sachs, it’s clear that you’re looking for a candidate who is extremely familiar with the responsibilities associated with the role and can perform them confidently. I am certain that I have the necessary skills to successfully do the job adeptly and perform above expectations.

During my academic career, I managed to gain five years of work experience for Kroger Co. as a sales representative in a fast-paced environment. I was trained in many departments and had the opportunity to shadow a Human Resource Manager. I also observed 100 different training programs they have to offer including, recruiting, training, Talent Acquisition, and compliance with rules and regulations. 

Moreover, I had the privilege of working for Baylor University’s Student Activities in a managerial role by helping with 10 different community service projects. I learned professional skills such as guiding, educating, supporting, and instructing students by building meaningful relationships with them. 

I look forward to elaborating on how my specific skills and abilities will benefit your organization. Please contact me at (281)220-9084 or via email at [email protected] to arrange a convenient meeting time for an interview.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, Chaikerra Guice

Source: Chaikerra Guice’s Goldman Sachs Cover letter

JP Morgan cover letter

Yousuf Kadir 5832 Reba St. Morton Grove, IL 60053

November 8th, 2023

J. P. Morgan 270 Park Ave., New York, NY, 10017

Dear Recruiter,

My name is Yousuf Kadir and I am currently a sophomore at Northwestern University studying Economics and Business. I was recently introduced to J.P. Morgan’s sophomore investment banking program via Ian Chan and was impressed with what I learned of J.P. Morgan’s competitive and collaborative culture. I am interested in pursuing an investment banking summer analyst position at your firm.

I have previously completed an internship at Aurora Investment Management, a hedge fund of funds in Chicago. Through this experience, I worked on managing projects and analyzing financial analyses. From this, I have learned skills including attention to detail and analytical skills, thus the relevant experience to pursue a career in banking.

Given my background at Aurora Investment Management and my attention to detail and analytical skills, I am particularly a good fit for the investment banking analyst position at your firm. I am impressed by the track record of J.P. Morgan, the responsibilities given to an investment banking summer analyst, and I look forward to joining and contributing to your firm.

I would welcome an opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you and learn more about J.P. Morgan at your earliest convenience. I can be reached at 847.486.1424 or via email at [email protected] . Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Yousuf A. Kadir

Source: Yousuf Kadir J.P. Morgan Cover Letter

Morgan Stanley cover letter

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to apply for the Summer Analyst Programme as advertised on the TARGETjobs website. I am in the final year of my BSc in Electrical & Electronic Engineering course at the University of Nottingham with plans to begin an MSc in Finance in 2015. I am seeking my first internship towards a career in investment banking (M&A) and I feel, with my detail-oriented nature and my quantitative and technical background as an engineer, I am prepared for the highly quantitative and analytically demanding finance environment.

Like in engineering, investment banking, in particular M&A, is another way of creating synergy i.e. the interaction of elements (companies) that when combined are greater as a whole, than individually, and this is what draws me to this field. I am excited by the prospect of finding more cost-effective, efficient, and profitable ways for companies, by integrating, to operate and provide services. 

The experience on numerous projects during my education has developed my ability to think critically, conduct research, write reports and communicate effectively, for example prior to my enrollment in the university, I was part of a team that worked with Fairline Boats Ltd to develop a 3D storyboard and simulation for the advertising campaign of their new boat. I was exposed to different new and innovative technologies in which I had to assimilate quickly, identify issues and propose solutions.

I hope that, on consideration of my attached CV, you will feel that I have the skills and experience to succeed in your summer analyst programme and become a valued member of Morgan Stanley.

I very much look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,

Source: Cover letter for an internship position at Morgan Stanley

Below you will find essential parts that make up a great investment analyst cover letter, including tips for writing each part.

✍🏻 Adopt a standard cover letter format.

The 6 sections that need to be included in a cover letter format for investment banking positions are: 

• Letter header - Provide the personal and contact info of the sender (you), date, and the recipient (recruiter, employer, or hiring manager).
• Salutation - Start with Dear, Hi, or Hello, and address the receiver directly.
• Introduction paragraph - Introduce who you are and mention which position you're applying for.
• Body paragraph(s) - Explain your motivation to apply and what makes you the best fit. 
• Closing paragraph - Remind the reader to review the attached files and express your gratitude.
• Signature - End the application letter with a proper sign-off and use your real name.

✍🏻 Express your interest in the role and your enthusiasm for investment banking.

This marks the difference between an investment analyst cover letter vs a resume. A resume only mentions your educational qualification and professional experience while an investment banking cover letter further explains your interest in the job. 

“Passion will get you the job.” This is especially true when you're writing an investment banking internship cover letter. Think carefully about what you are truly passionate about instead of what you think the hiring manager expects to read. In such an increasingly competitive market like investment banking, it’s passion and personality that help entry-level candidates and juniors get a leg up on the competition.

✍🏻 Explain why you are an ideal candidate. 

Here are a few tips:

• Use quantified results to elaborate on your experiences and accomplishments, for example: “In the last role at LTA Inc, I’ve supported IPO initialization for 8 startups onto NYSE and Nasdaq.”
• Insert positive words to describe yourself, such as: capable of, able to, dependable, energetic, flexible, etc. 
• Mention what you can do to bring value to the firm. Check out the Goldman Sachs cover letter example : “With plenty of experience in foreign investment and finding funds for domestic startup capital, I would welcome the opportunity to discuss your investment plans for the coming year at Goldman Sachs.”

✍🏻 Finish with a strong CTA.

In the final paragraph of your investment analyst cover letter, make sure you’ve inserted a strong CTA (call-to-action) to remind the employer to review your application and speak with you further regarding the job opportunity. By doing so, you can show them your motivation to apply and interest in the role, as well as give them a push to reach out to you for an interview.

✍🏻 Don’t forget to attach your resume/CV.

A cover letter is generally submitted as part of your job application (alongside your resume or CV). Hence, keep in mind to attach your documents to the email and make sure the files should be named consistently and properly.

Not sure where to start? Here is a template that you can download for free and use for your own investment banking job application. 

[Your Full Name]  [Your Address]  [Your Email Address]  [Your Phone Number]

[Date written]

[Recipient’s Name]  [Recipient’s Job Title]  [Company Name]  [Company Address]

Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms./Mx. [Name] , 

I am writing this cover letter to apply for the [job role] position at [company name] , as advertised on [website name] . I feel that I would be a valuable asset to your company as well as the [department/team] because of the following qualifications: 

During [number] years of experience in [area of expertise], I am responsible for [list at least 3 major job tasks]. The greatest accomplishments I've achieved in the former roles are [achievement 1] and [achievement 2] . 

My key skills include [soft skills] and [hard skills] , which enable me to accomplish the achievements mentioned above. I’m also [personal traits] . That makes me strongly believe I am the right fit for the role and can bring more value to the [company name] ’s growth. 

Please kindly find attached my resume. I thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

Sincerely,  [Your Name]

💡 Focus on your soft skills and personal traits. 

Here comes the two important factors that determine whether or not you're qualified for the role. To do so, you need to research the firm and make sure you can fit into the corporate culture. 

Here are some must-have soft skills for your investment banking cover letter :

• Stay calm under pressure
• Work well in a team 
• Honesty & Integrity
• Relationship building skills

💡 Be brief but engaging.

As a general rule of thumb, your investment analyst cover letter should range between 200-350 words. If it's too short, the hiring manager may think that you didn't put much effort into it or don't have many things to show. On the other hand, a cover letter exceeding 400 words can seem too long and make recruiters miss important points. Be brief and direct with your point to keep their attention.

💡 Mention any referrals or mutual networks.

As networking is especially essential within financial services, you can get a leg up on the competition by including any referrals or mutual networks in your investment banking cover letter. 

Example of a successful cover letter for JP Morgan internship program, with a referral: 

“I was recently introduced to J.P. Morgan’s sophomore investment banking program via Ian Chan and was impressed with what I learned of J.P. Morgan’s competitive and collaborative culture.”

💡 Be confident, but do not over-exaggerate.

Confidence is key in job hunting and can be conveyed through your writing. To keep that positivity throughout your investment banking cover letter, here are a few tips without overdoing it:

• Avoid overusing phrases like “excellent", “think outside of the box”, “strategic thinker", “expert", etc. 
• Admit that you haven't gained plenty of work experience or significant achievements 
• Willing to take on any challenges as a newbie

💡  Utilize bullet points. 

Consider using bullet points when writing your investment banking cover letter and resume. That will make it easy to read for employers and save a lot of space. 

When to use bullet points in a cover letter:

• List out job responsibilities in previous roles 
• Mention professional accomplishments in the field
• Highlight hard and soft skills

With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume’s PDF formats, and utilize ATS-compliant templates CV to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!

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Investment Banking cover letter examples

Investment banking is a competitive industry, and your cover letter is your chance to give context to your CV and stand out from the crowd.

But if you want to get noticed, you need to focus on showcasing your biggest achievements in the field, and we can help.

For top tips and writing advice you can bank on, check out our comprehensive guide and investment banking cover letter examples below.

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Investment Banking cover letter example 1

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Investment Banking cover letter example 2

Investment Banking cover letter example 3

These Investment Banking cover letter examples provide you with some guidance and inspiration for writing a cover letter that gets noticed and ensures your CV will get opened.

But if you really want to master the art of writing a winning cover letter , then follow our step-by-step cove letter writing guide below.

How to write an Investment Banking cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

You should write your cover letter in the body of the email (or messaging system if sending via a job board) and never attach it as a document.

The reason for this?

You want your cover letter to start connecting with the recruiter from the moment they open your application.

If they have to open a document to read it, it will slow things down and they may not even bother to open it.

Start with a friendly greeting

To start building rapport with the recruiter or hiring manager right away, lead with a friendly greeting.

Try to strike a balance between professional and personable.

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Stay away from old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies – they can come across as cold and robotic.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try to uncover it via these methods.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you have opened the cover letter with a warm greeting, you need to explain which role you are interested in.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant could be managing over 10 vacancies, so it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which one you are interested in.

Highlight the department/area if possible and look for any reference numbers you can quote.

These are some examples you can add..

• I am interested in applying for the role of *Investment Banking position* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The main purpose of your cover letter is to excite recruiters and make them eager to open your CV. And you achieve this by quickly demonstrating your suitability to the job you are applying for.

Take a look at the job adverts you are applying for, and make note of the most important skills being asked for.

Then, when you write your cover letter, make your suitability the focal point.

Explain how you meet the candidate requirements fully, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider your application.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Investment Banking cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Investment Banking cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Investment Banking cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Investment Banking cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I am writing to apply for the Investment Analyst position at CitiBank. With over 5 years of experience in financial analysis, valuation, and M&A transactions at Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan, I have honed my skills in creating financial models and conducting market research to deliver strategic advice and financial solutions to clients.

In my current role at Goldman Sachs, I manage a portfolio of over 50 clients with a total transactional asset value of £800million per annum. My in-depth understanding of the financial services industry has optimised business growth, resulting in a 30% client retention rate, surpassing company KPIs by 10%.

During my time at JPMorgan, I achieved investment returns of over 25% for clients by identifying undervalued commercial companies. Moreover, I improved productivity by 11% through the adaptation of the combined asset management database.

I am eager to bring my expertise in investment strategy, market research, and portfolio optimisation to CitiBank. I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to discussing how my skills can add value to your team.

Kind Regards,

Charlotte Froissant

I am writing to apply for the Asset Management Advisor role at JPMorgan. With a successful 20-year career as a Chartered Asset Management Advisor at leading UK banks like Morgan Stanley and Trex Bank, I possess the strategic acumen to manage a client portfolio worth over £40million.

Demonstrating my proficiency in client acquisition and revenue growth, I have grown my client portfolio by 15% in my first year at Trex Bank, generating £750K in profit for the company. In my current position, I have secured referral agreements with three third-party financial services companies, resulting in a remarkable 12% increase in local client interest. My ability to liaise with third-party organisations, combined with extensive professional networks in Madrid and New York, allows me to deliver personalised financial management plans effectively.

I am eager to discuss how my skills and achievements align with the requirements of JPMorgan. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Stanley Dixon

I am delighted to apply for the Risk Manager position at Deutsche Bank. As a seasoned Risk Officer with 30 years of experience in the financial services sector, I have a proven track record of developing and implementing risk management strategies for leading UK commercial banks.

At Nationwide Building Society, I led the development of a liquidity risk management framework with a 92% success rate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, I successfully implemented a stress testing program at HSBC, enhancing the organisation’s ability to assess and manage credit risks during economic downturns. My expertise in enterprise risk management, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement aligns well with the requirements of the role. Moreover, my MBA from LSE and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) qualification further strengthen my ability to effectively navigate complex financial landscapes.

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute my versatile set of skills to the risk management team at Deutsche Bank. I am available for an interview from next week and look forward to discussing how my experience can add value to your organisation.

Helena Sidmore

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a job in Investment Banking, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

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Is a cover letter essential to get an investment banking job?

If you want to set yourself apart from other candidates, then absolutely it's important.

Recruiters get tons of applications in prestigious investment farms like Deutsche bank, Credit Suisse, and Goldman Sachs. And they don't always have time to read through all job applications.

A cover letter can help you sell your skills to the recruiter in these scenarios. It becomes more important if you are applying to big MNC companies like Mckinsey, JP Morgan, etc.

Table of Content:

• Why cover letter for investment banking is essential?
• Step-by-step guide to writing an investment banking cover letter?
• Investment banking cover letter Template

What Does an Investment Banker Do?

An investment banker is a financial professional who helps businesses and individuals raise capital by issuing debt and selling equity. Investment bankers also help clients manage their funds, plan for future growth, and make strategic decisions about how to allocate their time, money, and resources between investments.

The role of an investment banker differs depending on the type of firm they work for: independent firms focus on raising capital for clients; commercial banks focus on lending money to small businesses; public equity markets (e.g., NASDAQ) are venues for trading stocks in publicly-traded companies; venture capitalists invest in startup companies; private equity funds buy companies outright and take them public later on.

Here are some responsibilities of an investment banker:

• Research financial trends and identify useful information regarding investments
• Manage debt and trade equity to maximize capital
• Deploy financial models to calculate & maximize financial profitablity
• Oversee the mergers and acquisitions of assets and companies
• Oversee the legal part of the expansion of personal and corporate assets
• Prepare and maintain financial records for investments and acquisitions.
• Identify investment opportunities and neotiate better offers

Why Cover Letter for Investment Banking Matters?

A cover letter may seem unnecessary in the investment banking job since the recruiters hardly get time to read the resumes.

However, when the recruiter sees a candidate's job application, they are happy to see cover letters along with a resume since it gives them a holistic view of the candidate.

You must make it worthwhile to read if you're writing a cover letter.

Most employers quickly glance through the cover letters and go on to reading the resume; however, It's essential to attach a cover letter, especially if:

Job Application in Smaller Bank Sectors : Small banks usually get fewer candidates. And hiring managers spend more time reading the resume and cover letters before selecting candidates.

Change in Career : If you are changing the industry or have a career gap, it's essential to write a cover letter explaining your career decisions.

Application for Foreign Jobs : If you are applying for a job in a foreign country, it's better to add an investment banking cover letter to state why you're interested in the job.

Unfortunately, a cover letter is also where candidates make most of the mistakes. So, keep the investment banking cover letter short and straightforward.

Step by Step Template To Write an Investment Banking Cover Letter

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write an investment banking cover letter:

Investment Banking Cover Letter Format

How a cover letter looks is a big part of your job application. So, pay some serious attention to the cover letter format to ensure it's professional and easy to read.

Here are some tips for formatting the investment cover letter correctly:

• Write the cover letter heading clearly and state your contact information and residential location here.
• Divide the cover letter body into 3 parts .
• Keep a 1-inch margin on all sides of the cover letter.
• Write the cover letter in a professional font such as Arial, Times New Roman, Calibri , etc.
• Keep the cover letter on one page and ensure it doesn't exceed 600-700 words .
• Left align all parts of the cover letter and send the cover letter to the recruiter in PDF format.

Also Read : How long should a cover letter be?

Investment Banking Cover Letter Salutation

Always address the investment banking cover letter with "Dear [hiring manager name]".

If you don't have the hiring manager's name, you can still address the cover letter.

Use the information found in the job description to customize the greeting.

“Dear Investment Banking Manager” “Dear Banking Director”

Even if you can't find those information, you can use a generic cover letter salutation. Such as:

“Dear Hiring Manager,” “Dear Human Resources Team,” "To Whom It May Concern"

Also Read : How to address a cover letter without name?

Investment Banking Cover Letter Heading

The investment banking cover letter header is the first thing a recruiter will see in your cover letter.

So, make sure to add all essential information in this section. For instance:

• Contact Information/Email-ID
• Residential location

See the Investment Banking Cover Letter Example Heading:

Also Read : How to Draft a Professional Cover Letter Heading

Investment Banking Cover Letter Introduction

This is the best place to explain who you are and how did you find the job post.

Use this opportunity to grab the recruiter's attention by highlighting your experience, certification, brand names, etc.

• Been a part of a prestigious university: Mention it in the introduction
• Worked with well-known companies/clients? You can mention that in the introduction section as well
• Did anyone refer you to the job: Start the cover letter with their names and how did you meet them

Example of Investment Banking Cover Letter Introduction:

"I'm extremely elated to apply for the Investment Banking Analyst position at Goldman Sachs. Recently at a networking event, I met Janna Lawrance from Goldman Sachs and she referred me to this job opportunity. I believe with my skills and 2+ years of experience as a Wealth Management Analyst at UBS, I'm the right candidate for the job."

Investment Banking Cover Letter Paragraph 2: Your Background

After you hook the recruiters, the next step is to tell them about your background and accomplishments.

Scan through your CV and identify the relevant experience and skills you have that are required to become a successful investment banker.

If you have multiple experiences, do not list all experiences; focus on 1-2 experiences where you had the most contributions and write about those.

Once again, if you worked with a big brand, don't shy away from name-dropping.

Pro Tip: Scan through the job descriptions carefully and identify the skills required for the job. Highlight those skills in the cover letter. For instance: teamwork, resourcefulness, leadership, analytical skills, etc.

Also, don't forget to add statistics to highlight your achievements,

Investment Banking Cover Letter Example: Paragraph 2:

"In my last stint as a wealth management analyst at UBS, I have developed leadership skills by leading a team of 3 interns to analyze investment opportunities and create financial predictions for assets. I also got the chance to work with big clients like BCG Deutsche Bank and managed a $2M portfolio while generating a 20% return on Q3 last year. In my previous stint as an Investment analyst intern at City Corporate bank, I worked directly with clients and provided excellent customer service to them. Additionally, I assisted in analyzing financial statements for the organization, fostered investment recommendations, and increased quarterly profit by 23%."

Investment Banking Cover Letter Paragraph 3: Why You're a Good Fit

After you share your skills and accomplishments in the 2nd paragraph of the cover letter, it's time to link your experience and skills to the position and show them why you're the right candidate for the job.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Example: Paragraph 3

I admire the relentless commitment Goldman Sachs has displayed over the years in consistently providing high-value and stalwart client services. I've witnessed the collaborative culture of Goldman Sachs that encourages teamwork, collaboration, and growth and it has been nothing but inspiring. I believe my background in finance and wealth management and my ability to work well with a team make me a perfect fit for your organization.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Paragraph 4: CTA

This is the last section of your cover letter. In this section, you should thank the recruiter for their time, remind them about the investment banking resume enclosure and provide your contact information to promote them set interview with you.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Example: Call to Action

Enclosed for your consideration is my resume. I'd appreciate the opportunity to further discuss my suitability and qualifications with you on call or in person. I am available at (415) 123 4232 or [email protected] . Sincerely, John Doe Enclosure: Resume

Also Read : How to end a cover letter in 2022?

Investment Banking Cover Letter Writing Tips

The responsibilities of an investment banker are enormous, from business analysis to financial planning, to communicating with clients to raise funds, etc.

So, you need to effectively show all your experiences to the recruiter through the cover letter.

Given below are some tips to write the investment banking cover letter effectively:

Add Relevant Skills

Read the investment banking job description carefully and identify the relevant skills that are asked of the candidates.

Try to add these skills in the cover letter for recruiters to read. Apart from that, try to highlight your soft skills in the cover letter in addition to your core competencies.

Given below are some soft skills you can add to your cover letter:

• Time management
• Organizational skills
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Project management
• Adaptability
• Communication

Along with the soft skills, you need to add some of your technical skills. For example:

• ERP software : SAP, Oracle Hyperion
• Risk analysis software : SAS, Portfolio analysis software, SunGard Financial Systems AddVantage
• Project management : Trello, Jira,

Open the Investment Banking Cover Letter with A Steller Introduction

An investment banker’s work is fast-paced and competitive. So, you need to show the recruiters that you have the ability and work ethic to work in a fast-paced environment.

So, write the introduction so that it captivates the reader’s attention the recruiter gets interested in reading your resume.

Here are some tips for writing an impressive introduction for an investment banking cover letter:

• Explain why do you want to work with the company and show your passion through the cover letter
• Start the introduction with your years of experience, certifications, or achievements

For example : “ Increased sales by 16% year on year by optimizing the sales process thorough research and analysis.”

Quantify Achievements in Cover Letter

Numbers speak louder than words.

The recruiters are not looking to learn your responsibilities. They are looking for proof that you brought excellent results in your past organization that you can replicate in your future organizations.

So, try to quantify your achievement and experiences in the investment banker cover letter.

Example :“Trained 10+ interns on preparing investment presentations and financial documentation.”

Investment Banking Cover Letter Template

Frequently asked questions.

Q. Do we have to create a separate cover letter if applying for a job through email?

The simple answer to this question is to use your cover letter body as the email body in the job application email.

Don't bother creating a separate cover letter to attach to the application.

Q. Does Goldman Sachs want cover letters?

According to an interview of a Goldman Sachs recruiter, Goldman Sachs does not only require a cover letter, but all the cover letters and resumes go through an extensive screening process by human recruiters before a candidate is shortlisted for an interview.

The interview also said that most candidates have excellent resumes, but they had poorly written cover letters, which got them rejected.

Key Takeaways

Here are a few things you need to remember before creating an investment banking cover letter:

• Make sure the formatting of the cover letter is professional and easy to read
• Always address the cover letter by the hiring manager's name.
• Read the job description carefully before creating the cover letter
• Break the ice in the first paragraph by telling the recruiter how you find the job post
• In paragraph 2, highlight your skills and accomplishments
• Talk about why you think you are the right fit for the job in the 3rd paragraph
• Add a call to action at the end of the cover letter to promote recruiters to set up interviews with you

Looking to create an investment banking cover letter for yourself?

Go to Hiration Cover Letter Builder and choose from 20+ designs to make your cover letter.

It has 24x7 chat support for all your career-related queries, from resume and cover letter writing to interview preparations.

Drop a mail at [email protected] with all your queries related to investment banking cover letter.

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5 Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter Examples

Introduction.

In today's competitive job market, a well-tailored cover letter can make all the difference when applying for a position as an investment banking associate. While a strong resume is essential, a compelling cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd and showcase your unique qualifications and motivations. This article will provide you with several examples of effective investment banking associate cover letters, along with key takeaways and tips to help you craft your own standout cover letter. With these examples and insights, you'll be well-equipped to make a memorable impression on hiring managers and increase your chances of landing your dream job as an investment banking associate.

Example 1: Mergers and Acquisitions Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter

Key takeaways.

Alesha's cover letter effectively highlights her relevant experience and accomplishments in the mergers and acquisitions field, positioning her as an ideal candidate for the Mergers and Acquisitions Investment Banking Associate position at Goldman Sachs.

When applying for a niche role like Mergers and Acquisitions Investment Banking, it's crucial to emphasize your specific experience and achievements in the field. This demonstrates your expertise and suitability for the role.

She highlights her experience in financial analysis, investment banking, and executing complex transactions, showcasing her ability to deliver results and drive revenue growth.

Emphasize your track record of successfully executing financial modeling, valuation, and deal execution. These skills are highly valued in the investment banking industry and demonstrate your ability to drive successful transactions.

Alesha also mentions her ability to build and maintain strong client relationships and deliver exceptional client service, which are key skills in investment banking.

Highlight your ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with clients and cross-functional teams. These interpersonal skills are highly valued in investment banking and can set you apart from other candidates.

The cover letter could further highlight Alesha's knowledge of Goldman Sachs and why she is specifically interested in joining the organization. This would demonstrate her motivation and alignment with the company's values and culture.

Research the organization and tailor your cover letter to showcase your understanding of the company's goals, values, and industry leadership. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and organization.

Example 2: Debt Capital Markets Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter

Benjamin's cover letter effectively demonstrates his qualifications and enthusiasm for the Debt Capital Markets Investment Banking Associate position at Citigroup.

When applying for a highly specialized role like Debt Capital Markets Investment Banking Associate, it's crucial to showcase your in-depth knowledge of the industry and your experience in executing complex financial transactions.

He highlights his achievements, particularly his leadership in structuring and executing a $500 million debt offering, which underscore his ability to navigate complex financial markets and deliver exceptional results.

Highlighting specific achievements that demonstrate your expertise and ability to generate positive outcomes is essential. This allows hiring managers to see the tangible value you can bring to their organization.

Benjamin's cover letter could benefit from further discussing his specific skills and experience in debt capital markets and financial modeling.

In a specialized role like Debt Capital Markets Investment Banking Associate, it's important to highlight your technical skills and expertise in areas such as debt structures, capital markets, and financial modeling. This will further reinforce your qualifications and demonstrate your ability to contribute to the team from day one.

Example 3: Equity Capital Markets Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter

Sophia's cover letter effectively showcases her experience and skills as an Equity Capital Markets Investment Banking Associate, positioning her as a strong candidate for the position at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

When applying for a niche role like Equity Capital Markets Investment Banking, it's important to demonstrate your understanding of the industry and highlight specific skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. This shows your potential to contribute immediately and excel in the role.

She highlights her experience in executing high-profile IPOs and secondary offerings, emphasizing her ability to handle complex financial analysis, build financial models, and prepare marketing materials.

Emphasize your experience in executing specific types of deals and transactions. This showcases your expertise in the field and your ability to deliver high-quality work that meets client expectations.

Sophia also mentions her notable achievement of leading a team in the successful completion of a $500 million IPO for a technology startup, showcasing her leadership skills, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

Highlight specific achievements and leadership experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle complex projects, work well under pressure, and effectively communicate with stakeholders. These qualities are highly valued in the investment banking industry.

Overall, Sophia's cover letter effectively communicates her qualifications, experiences, and passion for the role, making her a strong candidate for the Equity Capital Markets Investment Banking Associate position at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Example 4: Leveraged Finance Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter

Michael's cover letter effectively positions him as a strong candidate for the Leveraged Finance Investment Banking Associate position at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

When applying for a niche role like leveraged finance investment banking, it's crucial to highlight your specific expertise and experience in the field. This demonstrates your ability to hit the ground running and contribute to the team's success immediately.

He provides a clear overview of his relevant job history, starting from his experience as an Analyst at Goldman Sachs to his current role as a Leveraged Finance Investment Banking Associate at Barclays Investment Bank. This demonstrates his progression and growth in the industry.

Showcase your career progression and highlight the key responsibilities and achievements from each role. This helps paint a comprehensive picture of your experience and expertise, making you a more compelling candidate.

Michael emphasizes his experience in executing complex transactions, including leveraged buyouts and recapitalizations. This showcases his ability to navigate intricate financial structures and deliver results for clients.

Highlight your experience in executing specific types of transactions, especially those that are relevant to the role you are applying for. This demonstrates your expertise and adds credibility to your application.

Overall, Michael's cover letter effectively communicates his qualifications, experience, and passion for leveraged finance investment banking, making him a strong candidate for the position at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

Example 5: Restructuring and Recapitalization Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter

Olivia's cover letter effectively positions her as a strong candidate for the Restructuring and Recapitalization Investment Banking Associate position at Barclays Investment Bank.

When applying for a specialized role like restructuring and recapitalization in investment banking, it is crucial to highlight your relevant experience and expertise. This demonstrates your ability to navigate complex financial situations and provide strategic solutions to clients.

She highlights her experience at multiple reputable firms, showcasing her extensive background in investment banking and specifically in restructuring and recapitalization. This demonstrates her deep understanding of the field and her ability to excel in this role.

Emphasize your experience with high-profile transactions and your ability to work with diverse teams, including clients, legal advisors, and internal stakeholders. This highlights your ability to collaborate effectively and execute complex restructuring projects.

Olivia also mentions her strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. These qualities are highly valued in the investment banking industry, where precision and the ability to perform under stress are crucial.

Highlight your key skills and attributes that are highly sought-after in the investment banking industry, such as analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. This helps to differentiate yourself from other candidates and showcases your readiness for the role.

Overall, Olivia's cover letter effectively showcases her relevant experience, expertise, and personal qualities that make her a strong fit for the Restructuring and Recapitalization Investment Banking Associate position at Barclays Investment Bank.

Skills To Highlight

As an investment banking associate, your cover letter should highlight the key skills that make you a strong candidate for the role. These skills include:

Financial Analysis : Investment banking associates need to have strong financial analysis skills to assess the financial health and performance of companies. Highlight your ability to analyze financial statements, conduct ratio analysis, and interpret financial data to identify trends and make informed investment decisions.

Valuation : Valuation is an essential skill for investment banking associates. Showcase your proficiency in valuing companies, assets, and securities using various valuation methods such as discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, comparable company analysis (CCA), and precedent transactions. Emphasize your ability to perform detailed financial modeling to estimate the value of investments accurately.

Financial Modeling : Investment banking associates must be proficient in financial modeling to analyze investment opportunities, create financial projections, and perform scenario analysis. Mention your experience in building complex financial models using Excel or other financial modeling software. Highlight your ability to develop accurate and robust models that can support investment decisions.

Due Diligence : Due diligence is a critical aspect of investment banking. Discuss your experience in conducting comprehensive due diligence on potential investments, including evaluating financial statements, analyzing market trends, and identifying potential risks and opportunities. Showcase your attention to detail and ability to uncover key insights through thorough research and analysis.

Market Research : Investment banking associates need to stay informed about market trends, industry developments, and competitor analysis. Demonstrate your ability to conduct extensive market research to identify investment opportunities and assess market conditions. Highlight your proficiency in gathering and analyzing market data, preparing market reports, and presenting actionable insights to clients or senior management.

Communication Skills : Effective communication skills are essential for investment banking associates. Emphasize your ability to write clear and concise reports, prepare persuasive presentations, and communicate complex financial concepts to clients and colleagues. Highlight any experience you have in presenting investment recommendations or findings to clients or senior stakeholders.

By highlighting these key skills in your cover letter, you can demonstrate your suitability for an investment banking associate role and showcase your ability to contribute to the success of the team and the organization.

Common Mistakes To Avoid In Cover Letters

When crafting your cover letter for an investment banking associate position, it's important to avoid these common mistakes:

Being Too Generic : One of the biggest mistakes you can make is writing a generic cover letter that could apply to any job or company. This shows a lack of effort and interest in the specific role and firm you're applying to. Instead, take the time to research the company and tailor your cover letter to highlight why you're a good fit for their specific needs and culture.

Not Showcasing Relevant Experience : Investment banking is a highly specialized field, and employers are looking for candidates with relevant experience and skills. It's crucial to highlight your experience in finance, accounting, or related fields, as well as any internships or projects that demonstrate your knowledge of investment banking processes and concepts. Don't assume that your resume alone will showcase your qualifications - use your cover letter as an opportunity to provide specific examples and explain how your experience aligns with the job requirements.

Failing to Demonstrate Strong Industry Knowledge : Investment banking is a complex and fast-paced industry, and employers want to see that you have a solid understanding of the industry and its trends. Avoid the mistake of not showcasing your knowledge of investment banking concepts, such as financial analysis, valuation, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets. Additionally, research the specific needs and challenges of the target company and use your cover letter to demonstrate how your skills and experience can contribute to their success.

Ignoring the Importance of Soft Skills : While technical skills are important in investment banking, employers also value soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Don't make the mistake of only focusing on technical skills in your cover letter. Instead, highlight your ability to work effectively in a team, manage multiple projects, and communicate complex financial concepts in a clear and concise manner.

Neglecting to Proofread and Edit : One of the most common mistakes in any cover letter is failing to proofread and edit for grammar and spelling errors. Investment banking is a detail-oriented industry, and employers are looking for candidates who pay attention to the small details. Take the time to carefully review your cover letter for any mistakes or typos, and consider asking a friend or mentor to read it as well.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a strong and compelling cover letter that showcases your qualifications, knowledge, and enthusiasm for the investment banking industry.

In conclusion, a well-crafted cover letter is an essential component of a successful job application for an investment banking associate position. It provides an opportunity to showcase your skills, experience, and passion for the field, and can greatly enhance your chances of landing a rewarding position in this competitive industry.

Throughout this article, we have explored three examples of investment banking associate cover letters that effectively highlight the candidate's qualifications and align with the requirements of the role. Each example demonstrated key takeaways that can be applied across all cover letters in this category:

Tailor your cover letter to the specific job : Research the company and the role you are applying for, and customize your cover letter to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with their needs.

Highlight your relevant skills and achievements : Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and the impact you have made in previous roles. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to provide concrete evidence of your abilities.

Show enthusiasm and passion for the field : Express your genuine interest in investment banking and demonstrate your understanding of the industry. This will help you stand out from other candidates and show that you are committed to pursuing a career in this field.

By following these key takeaways, you can create a compelling cover letter that grabs the attention of hiring managers and increases your chances of securing an interview. Remember to proofread your cover letter carefully and ensure it is free of any errors or typos.

Investment banking is a highly competitive industry, and having a strong cover letter can make all the difference in distinguishing yourself from other applicants. Use the examples and tips provided in this article as a guide to create your own standout cover letter that showcases your skills, experience, and passion for investment banking. Good luck with your job search!

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14 investment banking associate cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Investment Banking Associate cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Investment Banking Associate
• Senior Investment Banking Associate
• Senior Investment Banking Analyst
• Investment Banking Analyst
• Investment Banking Vice President
• Investment Banking Senior Analyst
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Investment Banking Associate resume examples

Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, quantifiable accomplishment.

This sentence highlights a specific accomplishment with a measurable outcome, making it a strong example of the candidate's ability to improve efficiency. Always include quantifiable achievements in your cover letter to showcase your impact.

Team Management & Deal Closing

By mentioning the successful management of a team and the closing of multiple deals, the candidate demonstrates their leadership skills and deal execution capabilities. This helps to establish credibility and is a great way to showcase relevant experience.

Showcase Specific Accomplishments

By detailing the specific projects you've worked on, like structuring a hefty debt offering or working on a huge M&A transaction, you illuminate your skill set in a bright, authentic light. You also give me a sense of the magnitude of responsibilities you've handled and your capability to excel in a similar role at our firm.

Highlighting Tangible Achievements

When you discuss concrete examples of your success, like improving portfolio performance by 34%, it shows you're results-driven. It also gives a clear picture of your abilities and the potential value you bring.

Directly Addressing the Potential Contribution

Stating your eagerness to bring your skills to the company and how they will benefit them, shows your intent and dedication. It's a great way to tell them you're not just looking for a job, but a place to make a difference.

Expressing Awareness of Industry Dynamics

Acknowledging the fast-paced nature of the market and the need to stay ahead demonstrates your adaptability. It shows potential employers that you're proactive and can deal with changes.

Aligning with Company Culture and Values

When you express excitement for a firm's values, like innovation and impact, it lets them know you share their mission. It helps them envision you as a cultural fit.

Signaling Intent to Add Value

Ending your cover letter expressing a desire to make a meaningful impact, shows them you're driven by purpose, not just paycheck. It adds a touch of sincerity to your application.

Show your enthusiasm for the investment banking associate role

Talking about your excitement and why you're drawn to the company shows me you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in being part of our team.

Detail your relevant experience

Mentioning specific skills and how you've applied them in your career gives a clear picture of what you can bring to the table. It's important to see real-world application.

Highlight efficiency improvements

Improving processes and saving time are highly valued in investment banking. Your initiative in streamlining financial modeling is exactly the kind of impact we look for.

Align with our company culture

Understanding and appreciating our culture of collaboration indicates that you would fit in well with our team and contribute positively.

Express eagerness to contribute

Ending on a note of eagerness to discuss your potential contributions demonstrates your proactive attitude and interest in our mutual success.

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Express excitement for the investment banking associate position

Starting with enthusiasm for the role and the company sets a positive tone for the rest of your letter.

Share your achievements in investment banking

Quantifying your contributions to successful transactions provides concrete evidence of your skills and experiences.

Discuss your ability to secure new business

Mentioning your role in creating materials that helped win new clients highlights your valuable contribution to business growth.

Connect your aspirations with the firm’s goals

Explaining why the firm’s characteristics attract you shows you are looking for a match in values and goals, not just any job.

Conclude with gratitude and openness for a discussion

Thanking the reader and expressing your willingness to talk more about how you fit the role is courteous and proactive.

Share your defining moment

Explaining when your interest in investment banking started helps me see your passion. It's good when I can feel why you chose this path.

Highlight your deal experience

Telling me about the deals you've worked on and how you improved processes shows your direct impact on your past jobs. This information is very helpful.

Show your client management skills

Mentioning how you managed relationships and increased assets underlines your strong ability to work with clients. This skill is valuable for our team.

Connect your skills to our needs

When you match your abilities with what our team needs, it makes it clear why you're a good fit for this role. I look for this in applications.

Your closing statement should make me want to talk more with you about how you can help our team. This is a good way to end your letter.

Senior Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter Example

Highlight your leadership experience.

When you mention leading a team that executed a complex acquisition, it's clear that you have the leadership skills required for a senior role. This isn't just about showcasing your ability to work in a team, but your capability to lead one. Plus, adding the specific outcome of the transaction - the market share increase - makes your impact tangible.

Senior Investment Banking Analyst Cover Letter Example

Demonstrating unique initiatives.

Talking about your success in introducing a new tool that outperformed market benchmarks speaks volumes about your innovativeness and expertise. It gives them an idea of how you could enhance their operations.

Expressing Enthusiasm to Contribute

Showing excitement to bring your approach and contribute to the firm's excellence, demonstrates your determination and aligns with their need for motivated individuals.

Displaying Resilience and Strategic Perspective

Sharing your enthusiasm to bring resilience and strategic perspective to the firm, shows you're prepared for challenges and can navigate complex situations.

Recognizing the Firm’s Innovativeness

Noting your excitement about joining a team at the forefront of innovation, lets them know you recognize and appreciate the firm's trailblazing efforts.

Being Clear about Bringing Value

Asserting your intention to bring your experience, insight, and passion to contribute to the firm and clients’ prosperity, signals your commitment to making a tangible impact.

Describe what draws you to this work

When you talk about your fascination with mergers and acquisitions, it shows me where your interests lie. This can help you stand out.

Detail your role in significant deals

Describing your leadership in a big deal helps me understand the level at which you operate. Specifics like these are very persuasive.

Express your motivation to join us

Telling me why our firm excites you makes your application more personal. I appreciate knowing you have done your homework on us.

Emphasize your relevant skills

Listing the skills you've developed and how they apply to the job you're applying for helps me see you in this role. This clarity is crucial.

Show your interest in contributing

A well-crafted closing that highlights your willingness to discuss your fit for the role invites further conversation. This approach is always welcome.

Investment Banking Analyst Cover Letter Example

State your strong interest in the analyst position.

Starting off by expressing a strong interest sets a positive tone and shows that you're serious about the role.

Explain your foundation in financial skills

Outlining the skills you've developed through internships provides concrete examples of your capabilities and readiness for the job.

Show how you've made processes more efficient

Demonstrating your ability to improve efficiency, especially in time-consuming tasks, is highly attractive to potential employers.

Communicate your excitement and team spirit

Conveying excitement about joining the team and contributing to growth shows that you're not just looking for a job, but a place to invest your passion and skills.

Request a discussion on your fit for the role

Asking for an opportunity to discuss your qualifications further is a polite and effective way to show your interest in the position and company.

Express enthusiasm for the role

Showing excitement for the position at the outset can set a positive tone for the rest of your cover letter.

Demonstrate real-world experience

Discussing your hands-on experience with live transactions during your internship presents you as a candidate with practical skills and understanding of the industry's demands.

Emphasize your technical foundation

Mentioning your coursework relevant to the job role underscores your solid educational background and preparedness for the technical aspects of the job.

Align with the firm's values

Showing appreciation for the firm's reputation for independence and unbiased advice indicates your shared values and interests in the principles that guide their work.

End on a note of openness

Concluding with a statement about looking forward to discussing your fit for the role suggests you're open and ready for the next steps in the hiring process.

Show your journey to investment banking

Telling me about your journey, like how you were drawn to investment banking from your first accounting class, makes your passion genuine. It tells me you didn't just stumble upon this career; you chose it consciously.

Highlight hands-on experience in investment banking

When you detail your internship tasks, such as conducting market research and preparing pitch books, it shows me you're not just theory-driven but have practical skills. It's important to see that you've been in situations relevant to the role you're applying for.

Match your values with the employer’s

Expressing attraction to the company’s focus shows you've done your homework and understand what makes them unique. This tells me you're applying because you see a good fit, not just sending out applications everywhere.

Express eagerness to contribute and learn

Your eagerness to learn from and contribute to the team indicates a growth mindset. This is key in investment banking where markets are always changing, and continuous learning is essential.

Close with a clear call to action

Ending your letter by thanking me and expressing desire for a discussion about your fit for the role is polite and proactive. It's like saying, "I'm ready when you are," which is a good stance.

Investment Banking Vice President Cover Letter Example

Show genuine interest in the investment banking role.

Expressing a strong interest in the company's specific strengths makes your application more personal and shows you've done your homework.

Highlight transaction leadership in investment banking

Detailing your leadership in significant deals demonstrates your capability and experience directly relevant to the role.

Demonstrate impact in your previous investment banking position

Discussing how you contributed to your firm's success post-challenges such as the pandemic shows resilience and impact.

Express eagerness to leverage experience for growth

Showing excitement to use your skills for the company's benefit underlines your forward-thinking and goal-oriented mindset.

Invite further discussion about your investment banking potential

Ending with an invitation to discuss your qualifications further is a polite way to open the door for an interview.

Investment Banking Senior Analyst Cover Letter Example

Directly state your intent.

Starting your cover letter by expressing a strong interest in the specific job role shows you're clear and focused about what you want.

Show your investment banking impact

Detailing your accomplishments with specific examples, like leading a significant debt financing transaction, demonstrates your direct contribution and capability.

Highlight teamwork and leadership

Mentioning your role in mentoring and enhancing team performance showcases your leadership skills and your ability to contribute to a positive work environment.

Connect with the company's mission

Demonstrating your alignment with the company's goals, especially their commitment to middle-market clients, shows you've done your homework and understand what makes them unique.

Close with a call to action

Ending your letter by thanking the reader and expressing eagerness to discuss your qualifications further invites a dialogue and shows you're proactive.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

Cover Letters For Jobs Similar To Investment Banking Associate Roles

• Investment Banking Analyst Cover Letter Guide
• Investment Banking Associate Cover Letter Guide
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Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Sample

Getting employed in investment banking isn't that hard if you can craft a winning resume and a perfect cover letter. In this guide, experts in the writing business are going to show you how to write a cover letter step by step and share an investment banking cover letter sample for inspiration.

Here, you'll find:

• cover letter sample;
• writing guide;
• formatting guide;
• additional tips. 

Are you wondering how to write a cover letter fast? Use our online resume and cover letter writing service for success: Skiilhub's writing a great cover letter that can highlight your professional background, accomplishments, and financial modeling skills. Cover Letter for an Investment Banking [Example]

In every cover letter banking, applicants have to follow the proper cover letter format to keep their letter readable and professional-looking. It is crucial that you include all the key cover letter elements that we are going to discuss later in this guide. At the same time, it is vital to demonstrate your key skills and accomplishments.

Here is a well-formatted investment banking cover letter example for your inspiration.

1220 5th Ave,

New York, NY 10029

April 7, 2022

Leann Black

Hiring Manager

767 5th Ave,

New York, NY 10153

Dear Ms. Black,

As an investment banker with broad professional experience, I was excited to see a recent opening for an investment banker role in your company. I believe I possess the abilities, knowledge, and expertise to become a top candidate for this position and help take Apple to the next level.

In my work experience record, there are a number of big-name tech companies. My passion is helping them achieve their business objectives through careful investment research and analysis. My biggest strengths include accounting, risk management, and financial modeling skills.

In my past position at Microsoft, I've had a number of notable accomplishments:

• assisted with a $10B IT firm acquisition through careful qualitative and quantitative analysis;
• closed 25+ sell- and buy-side deals in 2021, each about $1B worth.

I would welcome the opportunity to have an interview with you to discuss how I can translate my skills and experience to the success of Apple.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Template

In the business world, job seekers should apply certain rules to writing every part of their job application.

Here are the basic rules of a modern cover letter template.

• Font: Calibri, Georgia, Trebuchet MS, Helvetica, etc.
• Margins: 1'' per each edge
• Line Spacing: 1.15
• Structure: 3 to 4 paragraphs

Ultimate Guide on How to Write an Investment Banking Cover Letter

Mastering the art of writing takes time and patience. Not every investment banker can write like a pro, even with a cover letter sample. But our experts put together their own knowledge and experiences to help you write a cover letter that gives you an opportunity to get an interview.

Need more help? Our experts have high qualifications and can write a killer letter for you quickly!

Or, read on to see how to put together a great cover letter.

If you need professional resume help, resume writing services near me are a solution! They are in Houston, Chicago, Nyc, Dallas, Seattle, San Diego, Phoenix, Austin, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Charlotte, San Antonio, Columbus, Kansas, Minneapolis, Indianapolis, Philadelphia, Jacksonville, Detroit. We are near you and always ready to give you a hand!

Proper Formatting for Investment Banking Cover Letter Examples

Showing recruiters your professionalism is crucial for landing the chosen position. Thus, every statement and other information you deliver must be formatted professionally.

Below is an analysis of the proper cover letter formatting for

• date & company details;
• closing paragraph.

Cover Letter Heading

The header is the first thing a hiring manager sees in your cover letter investment banking. Thus, it affects the first impression your job application makes.

In the sample below, you'll see how to format your heading to land a job in the investment banking department.

Cover Letter Sample for Investment Banking [Heading]

The cover letter header should include your contact details. Most often, the structure of elements looks as follows:

Here's a good cover letter investment banking example of a header:

Date and Company Details on Cover Letter

Under the header, indicate today's date. Then, mention the name of the hiring manager and company and the valid address.

This part of your cover letter for investment banking indicates who you are trying to contact, so it's also important.

Sample Investment Banking Cover Letter [Date and Company Details]

This section is an opportunity to indicate the company you want to apply to and its specific employees.

Cover Letter Greeting

Greeting the potential employer or recruiter in your investment banking cover letter is a formality that corresponds to basic business etiquette.

Ideally, a candidate should use ''Dear {Mr./Ms./Mx.]'' + the recruiter's last name. Also, you can use something like ''Dear Marketing Team'' instead of ''To Whom It May Concern.''

Investment Banking Sample Cover Letter [Greeting]

A good cover letter greeting can make hiring managers want to hire you. It highlights your professionalism, which can stimulate further career growth.

A perfect greeting is:

Dear Ms. Black

What to Include in an Investment Banking Cover Letter [Body]

Keep the body of your cover letter investment banking 2-3 paragraphs long. Specify the company and position you're interested in. Highlight your most significant accomplishments, skills, and areas of expertise (e.g., foreign direct investment). Then, restate your contact info.

Cover Letter Sample Investment Banking [Body]

Here's a sample body paragraph:

Closing Paragraph for Cover Letter

A generic investment banking analyst cover letter ending won't assist you in getting hired. Instead, end the cover letter in a simple but unique way. Use it as another chance to showcase your strengths and encourage the firm representative to invite you to an interview. Find a good sample below.

Investment Banking Cover Letter Example [Closing]

Here's an investment banking cover letter template for a strong ending.

Demonstrate Your Key Skills

Just like a resume, a cover letter for investment banking should also indicate your strongest skills to get your job application past the applicant tracking system (ATS) and show potential employers that you are an ideal employee for them.

To showcase your level of qualification effectively, you should include both soft and hard skills on a cover letter. Some of the key abilities to highlight include the following.

• Communication
• MS PowerPoint
• Public speaking
• Qualitative & quantitative analysis

Do Your Research

Writing your letter based on a random banking cover letter sample won't do any good. To make the most of it, you have to tailor your letter to the needs of a specific company you are applying to. Thus, you have to research it well.

When researching the company of your interest, pay special attention to its values and needs stated in the job description. The job description includes the major keywords recruiters will be looking for in applications.

Cover Letter Investment Banking Takeaway

• Always research the company.
• Stick to the right format.
• In a header, specify your contact details, today's date, and the addressee's details.
• Greet the hiring manager.
• Write 2-3 body paragraphs that communicate your level of qualification, skills, experience, and objectives.
• End with a powerful (not generic) closing.

Now you can use these tips and our investment banking cover letter sample to write yours.

Need more help? Let experts from SkillHub professional resume writing service help you land an interview with ease!

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Investment Banker Cover Letter Sample

Kick-start your career and learn to write your new cover letter with our free, downloadable Investment Banker cover letter sample. Make a copy of this cover letter sample free of charge or rewrite it directly in our online cover letter builder.

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Investment Banker Cover Letter Sample (Full Text Version)

Paul hannula.

Dear Hiring Managers,

I am writing to express my interest in the Investment Banker position at Pier Investments, LLC in Toronto, ON. With over five years of experience in finance and a strong track record of achieving results, I am confident in my ability to meet your needs and contribute to the growth of your organization.

During my time at Fisher Investments, Ltd., I was responsible for developing financial models, analyzing investment risks, and assessing clients' financial needs. I also conducted market analysis, managed portfolios, and maintained relationships with clients and partners. In addition, I supervised a team of junior employees and successfully completed various other tasks.

I have been recognized for my outstanding performance, receiving the Employee of the Month award twice. As a Chartered Investment Manager with a master's degree in Financial Economics from the University of Toronto, I possess strong attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and the ability to work effectively under pressure. I am proficient in relevant software programs such as QuickBooks, SigFig Portfolio Tracker, and Morningstar.

I am eager to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of Pier Investments, LLC. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to meet with you in person.

Sincerely, Paul Hannula

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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