How to write a Cover Letter for high-profile Careers like Consulting and Banking

If you’re looking to break into a high-profile career like consulting or banking, it’s important to have a well-written cover letter to accompany your CV. In the following post, we’ll walk you through it paragraph by paragraph.

Start with a Formal Letterhead
Make sure to start your cover letter with a formal letterhead that is formatted in the customary way for your region. Your letterhead should include your name, address, the date, the recruiter’s name, the company name, and the office address of the company. Including the name of the recruiter shows that you have done the minimum amount of research and makes the application more personal. In the right-hand side of the cover letter, include the location and date, and a subject line in bold to clearly state what your letter is about.

Clearly State Your Objectives
In the spirit of top-down communication, it’s important to precisely state what you want in the first paragraph of your cover letter. When applying for a job, I would recommend including three key pieces of information: the position you’re applying for, the office location you’re interested in joining, and your availability. Make sure to also state the duration of your internship (if applicable) and check the requirements of the firm you’re applying to.

Provide Context
In the next paragraph, provide some context about where you currently stand in your education and career journey. If you’re a student, mention what you’re studying and when you expect to graduate. If you’re an experienced hire, mention whether you’re currently employed and when you could quit your job. This information will give the recruiter a better understanding of your background and experience.

Highlight Your Skills and Qualifications
In the following paragraphs, highlight your skills and qualifications that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. Use specific examples and accomplishments to show why you’re a good fit for the job. Make sure to also mention any relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, and any previous work experience you have.

Conclusion
In the conclusion of your cover letter, express your interest in the position and the company, and thank the recruiter for considering your application. Mention that you’re looking forward to the opportunity to further discuss your qualifications in an interview.

To summarize, a well-written cover letter is an important part of your job application and can make a big difference in landing you an interview. By following these tips, you can write a cover letter that will set you apart from other candidates and help you break into a high-profile career like consulting or banking.