cover letter for a graduate trainee in a bank

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• September 15, 2020
• Cover Letters

A graduate trainee is a fresh graduate who is transitioning into the workplace . To secure a position, your graduate trainee cover letter should achieve one purpose; which is, to prove that you are a valuable candidate . Hence, this graduate trainee cover letter example will not only show you how to write a good cover letter, but, it’ll answer other key questions about graduate trainee positions so that you’ll have a good knowledge of the portfolio that you’re about to fill.

Who Can Apply for a Graduate Trainee Position?

Any graduate can apply for a graduate trainee position, provided they qualify (degree) in the same or related industry.

Nevertheless, it’s best to apply for a graduate trainee position in an industry in which you wish to pursue a career.

Requirements of Graduate Trainee

• Degree in the same or related field.
• Previous work experience is not necessary but may be advantageous.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent research abilities and a willingness to grow.
• A positive attitude and a growth mindset.

Duties/Responsibilities of Graduate Trainee

• Gathering as much information on the company and participating in on-the-job training wherever possible.
• Participating in meetings, workshops, and team-building events.
• Taking notes on experiences and keeping a log of things learned.
• Compiling reports and making presentations to other staff members.
• Analysing existing systems and offering new ideas for improvement.
• Bringing positive energy into the company, and forming lasting professional relationships with staff.
• Conducting research and assisting the Manager or Supervisor wherever possible.
• Completing fieldwork or visiting different work sites when required.
• Upholding the good name of the company at all times.
• Writing a test or submitting to some other form of evaluation at the end of the graduate program.

Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Example

Cynthia Akuma

[email protected]

     Mobile: xxxxxxxx

      17 January, 2012

Mr. Richard Okiasi

Alan & Grant Plc.

Phone: XX XXXX XXXX

Email: enquiries@alan&grant.com.ng

Dear Mr. Richard,

RE: Application for Graduate Trainee Position

As a young and motivated individual, I am extremely interested in applying for the advertised Graduate Trainee Position with Alan & Grant Plc.

In November 2011, I completed my undergraduate studies and obtained a degree in Business Administration. This has given me a range of practical capabilities that will meet the needs of this role.

While rounding up my undergraduate studies, I worked part-time as a Customer Service Assistant for Shoprite. My responsibilities in this role included providing face-to-face customer service and assisting on the floor with stock movements and visual merchandising. This position has given me key employability skills while also allowing me to have an experience of working in a professional and fast-paced work environment.

About my ability to meet the specific requirements of this job:

• Customer Service: Worked part-time for a year in a face-to-face customer service environment, providing customer service at registers, lay-by counter, and on the retail floor.
• Reception duties: Responsibilities at Shoprite included answering incoming phone calls and assisting customers with phone-based inquiries.
• General Administration: Certificate in Business Administration has provided training in the use of skills, which include filing, data processing, records management and written communication.

My teachers and employers have commended me for my high level of interpersonal skills and naturally engaging personality. My motivations include, learning new things and the challenge of meeting key objectives. My current and previous managers can be contacted to provide more information about my ability to meet the needs of this job.

I understand that you will receive a large number of applications for this role. I do, however, believe that my motivation, commitment and pre-existing skills will allow me to fit into your work environment and immediately start supporting the needs of your organisation.

I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my application at an interview. I have enclosed a copy of my resume for your consideration. I can be contacted at all times on the details provided above.

Thank you in advance for your time,

Most Sought-After Skills for Graduate Trainee Position

Naturally, the skills that employers look for in a graduate trainee, varies from industry to industry and from job to job. However, there are skills that employers value across the board.

The core soft skills that employers look for in a graduate trainee include:

• Literacy and numeracy
• Time management and organisation
• Oral and written communication
• Creativity and problem solving
• Initiative and enterprise
• Critical and analytical thinking
• Ability to apply discipline, knowledge, and concepts
• Information gathering, evaluation, and synthesis
• Emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
• Adaptability

Hard skills that employers look for in a graduate trainee include:

• Specialized maths knowledge: A working knowledge of calculus, statistics, and probability is required for a career as an actuary.
• Good business sense: Accounting and economics .
• Strong computer skills: Formulating spreadsheets, statistical analysis programs, database manipulation, programming, etc.

Note: Employers don’t expect you to have all these skills, and you will learn many more on the job. But of course, any special knowledge that you’ve acquired through your degree, industrial training, and short work will be an added advantage.

Let us know if you have any questions about this Graduate Trainee cover letter example. Good luck with writing your cover letter!

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Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Samples

Graduate trainees are fresh graduates who are transitioning into a workplace so that they gain some work experience. Graduate Trainees' responsibilities depend on their industry, but they are generally guided by a senior staff member as they learn, train, and attend meetings. Graduate trainees usually have a degree related to the work they are being trained in.

Are you a recent graduate looking to kickstart your career? A well-crafted cover letter can be your ticket to landing that dream job as a Graduate Trainee.

In this article, we will provide you with two sample cover letters designed to showcase your unique skills and qualifications, setting you apart from other applicants. So, let's dive in and discover the perfect Graduate Trainee cover letter sample!

Writing a good Graduate Trainee cover letter can make the difference between being invited for a job interview and having your application ignored by a recruiter.

The following Graduate Trainee cover letter samples will help you write a compelling cover letter that best highlights your experience, skills and qualifications. The cover letter samples can be edited to suit any Graduate Trainee with or without experience.

Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Example

This sample will guide you in writing a perfect cover letter for your Graduate Trainee job application.

[Your Name],

[Your Address],

[Your City, Your State].

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email]

[Current Date]

[Recipient's Name],

[Recipient's Job Title],

[Company Name],

[Company Address].

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Graduate Trainee position at your esteemed company. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, I am eager to apply my theoretical knowledge and gain practical experience in a dynamic work environment.

During my academic journey, I have developed strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which I believe will be valuable in tackling the challenges of a Graduate Trainee role. My coursework in marketing, finance, and project management has equipped me with a solid foundation to contribute to your organization's growth and success.

Furthermore, my internship experience at XYZ Company allowed me to develop excellent communication and teamwork skills while working on cross-functional projects. I thrived in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating adaptability and a strong work ethic.

I am confident that my passion for learning, coupled with my dedication and drive, make me an ideal candidate for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from industry professionals. Thank you for considering my application.

Yours sincerely,

[ Your Signature ]

[Your Name]

Cover Letter tip

Always endeavour to find out the hiring manager's full name. Look them up on LinkedIn, consult the company website or give the company a call to find out. If you're unable to figure out their name, you can omit it from the recipient's section, while using preferred alternatives like: "Dear Hiring Manager:", "Dear Director of Human Resources:" or less frequently: "Dear Sir/Madam:" in the Salutation.

Learn more about how to write a cover letter in a more detailed guide.

Here's another Graduate Trainee cover letter sample to inspire you even more.

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Graduate Trainee position at [Company Name], as advertised. With a solid academic background, a passion for [relevant industry or field], and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, I am eager to embark on a dynamic career journey with [Company Name].

I recently graduated with [Your Degree] from [Your University], where I consistently demonstrated academic excellence and an ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. My coursework in [Your Major] equipped me with a strong foundation in [mention relevant skills or knowledge areas, e.g., data analysis, project management, etc.]. I am drawn to [Company Name] because of its reputation for fostering talent, commitment to innovation, and dedication to [mention any specific company values or initiatives].

Key strengths and attributes that I would bring to the Graduate Trainee role include:

Analytical Skills: Adept at analyzing complex information, extracting key insights, and applying critical thinking to solve problems.

Adaptability: Proven ability to adapt to new environments and challenges, as demonstrated by my success in [mention any relevant academic or extracurricular experiences].

Team Collaboration: Effective team player with strong communication skills, demonstrated through group projects and extracurricular activities.

Initiative: Proactive and self-motivated, I have a keen interest in taking the initiative to contribute innovative ideas and solutions.

Drive for Excellence: A commitment to achieving excellence in every task, coupled with a determination to exceed expectations.

I am particularly excited about the prospect of joining [Company Name] as a Graduate Trainee and leveraging this opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience across various departments. I am confident that my academic achievements, coupled with my enthusiasm for [industry or field], make me a strong candidate for this role.

Enclosed is my resume, providing additional details about my education, projects, and relevant coursework. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with the goals of [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the success of [Company Name] as a Graduate Trainee.

There's no one-size-fits-all cover letter. Every cover letter should be tailored to the requirements of a particular job. Therefore, resist the temptation of using these samples word-for-word in your job applications. They're only intended to serve as a guide for writing compelling cover letters.

Since each job comes with its unique responsibilities and requirements, it's important to customize your cover letter to align with the specific skills and expertise demanded by the position you are applying for, highlighting why you are a strong match for the job requirements.

Use these cover letter samples to gain inspiration while writing your own cover letters. If you're still unsure of your writing abilities, our experts can help you write a cover letter that can get you a job.

Cover Letter Tip

There's no one-size-fits-all cover letter. Every cover letter should be tailored to the requirements of a particular job. Therefore, resist the temptation of using these templates word-for-word in your job applications. They're only intended to serve as a guide for writing compelling cover letters.

Since each job comes with its unique responsibilities and requirements, it's important to customize your cover letter to align with the specific skills and expertise demanded by the position you are applying for, highlighting why you are a strong match for the employer's job requirements.

If you're unsure of your writing abilities, our experts can help you write a cover letter that can get you a job.

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Sample Cover Letter for Bank Graduate Trainee

Importance of a cover letter with a resume needs no mention. It is the best way to grab the opportunity to present your strengths and accomplishments to the employee in a smart and sincere manner to earn that first impression.

If you are a bank graduate trainee looking for a job at some reputed bank then you must learn to draft a good covering letter with perfection. Here is a sample format of cover letter for bank graduate trainees for your reference.

Format Cover Letter for Bank Graduate Trainee

Edward Gibbs 55 Business Street Washington T:  027 6566555 E: [email protected]

Date: 18th, November, 2014

Mr. James Laurels Developmental Bank New York

Dear Mr. James,

Re: position at Ecobank Ghana

Please accept this letter with my resume enclosed as my application for the position of Customer Service Adviser advertised in Daily News on 12 November 2014.

I am a friendly professional possessing an experience of three years in the banking and financial sector. I am very enthusiastic about providing outstanding customer service to the customers. I am a bank graduate trainee from Ohio University.

During my national service at Axis Bank, at the position of Service Adviser, I served three years resolving customers’ banking issues. I provided them with all the useful information and advice concerning their banking issues. My knowledge about the industry and my experienced helped me listen carefully to every customer and resolve their queries by introducing them to the best suited products and services to their highest satisfaction levels.

I have been a great team worker. Social interaction and ability to make the job responsibilities a more enjoyable part of life has been my aim which has also made me the Vice President of my work’s social club.

You can find my academic details in my resume. Thanks for your precious time and attention. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you find me a right candidate for the profile. I look to discuss my professional experiences and ideas with you.

Yours sincerely

[sign here]

Edward Gibbs

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Graduate cover letter examples

As a recent graduate, you need to effectively showcase your degree and relevant skills on your CV and cover letter.

But when you’re just starting out in your career, it can be tough to know where to begin.

In the guide below, we’ll teach you how to create a clear, concise and professional application using our graduate cover letter examples and handy top tips.

CV templates 

Graduate cover letter example 1

Graduate cover letter example 2

Graduate cover letter example 3

These 3 Graduate cover letter examples will provide you with some good ideas on how to format a cover letter, along with the type of message you should be trying to put across to recruiters .

To further understand exactly how you can write a cover letter that will get you noticed, check out our further guidance.

How to write a Graduate cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Graduate cover letter

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

When writing your Graduate cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

To kick your cover letter off, start with a friendly greeting to build rapport with the recruiter instantly.

Your greeting should be personable but professional. Not too casual, but not too formal either

Go with something like…

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

Avoid old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies.

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 these methods to find it.

• 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’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Graduate position* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior 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 sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

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

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, 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 you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

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 Graduate cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Graduate 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.

Graduate cover letter templates

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

I hope you’re well.

I am excited to apply for the Graduate Structural Engineer position at Stainton Energy and I believe my strong academic background and onsite experience makes me a suitable candidate for this role.

Throughout my master’s degree at the University of Glasgow, I have engaged in large-scale installation projects, feasibility studies, and audits for civil and renewable energy construction companies. Notably, I contributed to a site audit that identified a significant submerged rock area, leading to critical modifications in project plans. Additionally, my Certified AutoCAD Professional status has enabled me to implement cost-effective materials and conduct comprehensive end-to-end component design. Throughout my academic journey, I excelled in modules encompassing Feasibility Study, Geotechnical Design, Renewable Energy Systems, and more. My final project, “A digital model of soil mechanics in an urban environment,” showcased my prowess in complex data analysis and computer modelling.

I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and eager to discuss how my skills can contribute to the company’s success. Thank you for considering my application.

Kind regards,

Leila Marker ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Dear Frances,

I am excited to apply for the Graduate Research Chemist position at Helmer Laboratories as it perfectly aligns with my passion for analytical chemistry and expertise in organic synthesis.

As a detail-oriented Chemistry graduate currently pursuing my master’s in Analytical Chemistry, I possess technical proficiency in HPLC and GC-MS, enabling precise quality checks and chemical identification. My problem-solving skills and meticulous approach have streamlined workflows in a professional research laboratory and, during my internship at Lab Solutions Ltd, I contributed to significant cost savings through process optimisation and validation of an in-house HPLC method.

Throughout my academic journey, I excelled in modules covering Analytical Techniques, Advanced Organic Synthesis, and Chemical Analysis and Quality Control. My forthcoming thesis, ‘Analysis of Drug Metabolites in Urine using GC-MS,’ demonstrates my commitment to cutting-edge research.

I am confident that these collective skills make me and asses for your team and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience to discuss them further.

Giles Stevens ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am writing to apply for the Graduate Software Developer position at your esteemed organisation, as it presents an exciting opportunity to leverage my passion for programming and problem-solving.

As a Computer Science graduate, I possess a strong background in object-oriented design principles and technical solution development. My proficiency in Java, C++, and Python has allowed me to develop and deploy software updates for enterprise-level applications, ensuring seamless user experiences. During my undergraduate studies I excelled in modules covering Software Development, Data Structures and Algorithms, and Artificial Intelligence. During my summer internship at Sky Blue Solutions, I collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality software products. I also successfully implemented a new update deployment process, improving efficiency by 14%, and contributing to the development of an e-commerce application, increasing user engagement by 23%.

I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and how my skills can contribute to your organisation’s success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Mason Harley ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Graduate job, 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!

The cover letter that will get you a job in a bank

Do you really need to write a cover letter when you're applying for a job in an investment bank? These days, it's surely all about the skills in your CV - who's got the time to read that extra blurb saying how perfect you are for the role?

Recruiters working with experienced hires certaintly don't have the time. Most of the banking recruiters we speak to treat the cover letters (or 'cover emails') they receive from experienced candidates as an irrelevance. "For experienced roles, we rarely look at cover letters," says the CEO of one London-based financial services recruitment firm. I just go for the CV," agrees another. "I look at the CV and then I phone them. - If the CV is relevant, I'll get everything that would have been in the cover letter from that call." 

This doesn't mean you should just attach a CV/resume with no introductory email. It does mean that the introductory email might not be read - but you still need to make sure you don't make common mistakes like referencing the wrong bank, or forgetting to attach your CV altogether.

However, there some situations in which cover letters can make all the difference.  

These include:

• When you're applying for graduate jobs in banking.
• When you're applying to banks directly (without going through external recruiters),
• And... when you happen to be using a recruiter who simply likes cover letters (hard to tell!).

"For graduate hires, cover letters are very important," says one headhunter. Just how important is reflected by the fact that some banks specify them as a must-have in the ir graduate recruitment process .   Banks like Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Barclays, Morgan Stanley and Macquarie typically all demand that their would-be analysts in Europe write cover letters or something very similar, says Victoria McLean, a former Goldman Sachs recruiter and founder of banking CV specialists, City CV.   "Some banks still ask for specific questions to be answered around motivation, strengths and key behaviours/competencies (these are of varying word counts depending on the bank)," she says.

Goldman Sachs historically demanded that recruits write a 300 word personal statement as a cover letter. A former recruiter at the firm told us it was  very important. "Some students were excellent until they got to the cover letter," - those 300 words let them down.

What makes a good banking cover letter? Mai Le, a former Goldman Sachs investment banking associate who ran  CoverLetterLibrary , a community which houses a collection of cover letters that have enabled juniors to get jobs at banks in the past. Le says the best cover letters have two things in common: narrative structure (they emphasize your story and show the choices that brought you here) and facts and figures that underscore your background and achievements. By comparison, Le says the worst banking cover letters suffer from key-word stuffing, irrelevant information and spelling and grammatical mistakes.

It can help to follow a general template... 

You need to tailor your cover letters for each job you apply to. But this doesn't mean that you can't write a cover letter that follows a template. It does mean that each time you apply for a new job, you will need to fill in the template all over again.

McLean suggests your template follows the following format: Introduction. Why me? Why you? Why this job? In total, the text within the template should be no more than 750 words, or one A4 page, long. Le says some candidates also use a format that's ordered as, Why this job? Why this bank? Why me?  "It's a matter of personal preference," she says. Ultimately, you want all these elements in the cover letter and should go with which ever you feel comfortable with.

Either way, here's what to include.

The easy introductory paragraph

The first paragraph is all about explaining why you're writing. If you're applying for a graduate job in a bank, keep it short and sweet.

"The first paragraph is just to say who you are and why you're writing the letter," says McLean.

This paragraph might read something like. "I am an X with X year history of X at global banking firms including X as well as X. I have been working for X for the past X years."

If you're writing a Goldman Sachs cover letter that's 300 words or less, you can ditch this style of opening paragraph. - There's just no space for it.

If you're writing to a recruiter, there's less need to be quite so brief with your introduction. Say who you are, and explain why you've approached that recruiter in particular: "If someone says they've been referred to me by someone I know and respect, I will sit up and pay attention," says one U.S. recruiter. "The same applies if they say they've learned that I mentor women and that this is something they're interested in too."

In other words, when you're writing a cover letter to a recruiter, you need to know who you're writing to. Use this introductory paragraph to address them in person. Flattery will get you everywhere.

The selling yourself paragraph. 'Why you?'

The second paragraph is usually harder. This is where you need to start selling yourself, expressing your personality, and explaining why you're such a hot catch. It's here that you can add in some of the narrative explaining how you came to apply for this role, plus some of the substantiating figures that Le says make successful cover letters so effective.  Don't  use bland and empty phrases like, "I am a determined, motivated person." Do look at the key words and skills used to describe the job you're applying for and (without too obviously reiterating the ad) explain how you match them. Focus on the results and on  outcomes you've achieved in similar situations in the past.  You need to be specific and you need to bring yourself to life.

If you're writing a cover letter to accompany a graduate application, McLean says you can use the second paragraph to talk about what you've studied and how it's relevant. If you've studied finance and know how to do a DCF, now's the time to mention that. If you haven't studied finance but have good relationship management skills and you want to work i n M&A (a relationship-focused business), say that here. Provide EVIDENCE for the skills you're claiming to have.- List any awards you've won. Never, ever, make empty statements. "Many successful trading cover letters feature the candidate's trading return profile and their rationales for their success or failure," says Le. " - Cover letters for sales positions highlight the candidate's track record that evident their ability as a natural salesperson."

The motivational paragraph. 'Why this job (in this sector?)'

If you're an experienced hire applying through a recruiter or applying directly to a bank, this is where you explain why you want the job you're applying for. If you're a student applying for a first job, this is why you need to explain why you want this job and why you want to work in this sector. Be specific -  you'll need to know about the job and the sector before you start this section.

As a student, you'll need to link your skills back to your motivation for working in that area of banking above others, says McLean. Why M&A? Why not sales and trading? Why not compliance?  - If you want to work in operations , for example, explain how you have a passion for building systems and improving efficiency, as evidenced by your system for serving customers in your weekend job...

"You should include what you love about the industry to which you are applying," says McLean. "Why is it important to YOU? Why does it matter to YOU? How does it make a difference to YOU? and why is it interesting to YOU? Especially valid for Graduates: Why finance? Why investment banking / asset management?  before addressing the specifics of the division or programme to which you are applying. The key is to make this personal…. This is where most grads go wrong in their cover letters, they sound too generic and impersonal."

The connection paragraph. 'Why this bank ?'

The fourth paragraph is all about explaining why you want to work for that particular bank. Again, you need to be specific. McLean says graduates often copy and paste from banks' own websites. For example, it's not unheard of for them to write, "I want to work for Goldman Sachs because you have 170 locations across 90 cities in over 30 countries."  This will get you nowhere.

"The idea is not to flatter your potential employer but to identify what makes them a good choice for you and you a good fit," says McLean. "Telling Goldman or Citi you want to work for them because they are the best is not going to impress anyone. However, writing that it’s an opportunity to work with some of the best minds on the street and that you want to be held to those same exacting standards is a bit more engaging." But you need to put this in your own words: you need to make it personal and say what the banks strengths mean to YOU.

The other ex-Goldman Sachs recruiter we spoke to said she particularly looked for, "creativity and effort and writing about Goldman Sachs," when running through students' cover letters. People were expected to say exactly why they wanted to work for Goldman rather than, say, J.P. Morgan.

Instead of just reiterating what you've read on banks' websites, therefore, you need to cite some unusual reasons for choosing that bank that will make you stand out. If you're a student, it helps to say that you've met some of the banks' staff and were impressed by them.  Citigroup, for example, suggests that  student cover letters  reference encounters with the bank's staff at recruitment events. - Make a note of the staff you meet and explain what they said or did that impressed you, and what made you think you'd like to work with them.

Mark Hatz, a former M&A associate at Goldman Sachs and Perella Weinberg Partners who now helps people get jobs in banking , says stressing your rapport with people you've met from the firm is particularly important when you're applying for a job in M&A or capital markets: "These are advisory businesses and they want to see that you can build a rapport and work in a team. If you get the job, you'll also be spending a lot of hours in the office with these people, so showing you like them is very important."

It also helps to reference the bank's strategy, to mention any awards the bank won, and to cite any conversations you've had with or comments you've read from other industry professionals and analysts who've given concrete reasons why it's good place to work. Everything in this section needs to be positive. - You need to explain why you want to work for Deutsche Bank specifically without writing anything that denigrates its rivals. The more senior you are, the more you will need to reference solid strategy points at this stage.

"Show a grasp of where they are going, what the plan is and why this appeals to you," says McLean. Show that you know their strategy and that you agree with the way they're addressing challenges. "You should also write about the future of the firm. You should be planning to be there for a few years and hoping to share that future with them," McLean adds. Look at the shareholder letter in the last annual report for information on a bank's strategy.

The call to action

Finally, you need to end the cover letter with a call to action. McLean suggests completing the letter with the following sentence: "I really look forward to hearing from you. I am available for interview and contactable by X.'

Simple. Except all of this has to be written in 750 words - or just 300 if you're a student applying to Goldman Sachs. It's not so easy after all.

Click here to create a profile on eFinancialCareers. Make yourself visible to recruiters hiring for top jobs in technology and finance. 

Have a confidential story, tip, or comment you’d like to share? Contact: [email protected] in the first instance. Whatsapp/Signal/Telegram also available.

Bear with us if you leave a comment at the bottom of this article: all our comments are moderated by human beings. Sometimes these humans might be asleep, or away from their desks, so it may take a while for your comment to appear. Eventually it will – unless it’s offensive or libelous (in which case it won’t.)

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Sample cover letter for Full Time position at Old Mutual

Graduate trainee.

I am writing to apply for the Graduate Trainee position as advertised on your careers website. I was attracted by your company values, particularly pushing beyond boundaries, as demonstrated by your services which make it possible for people from all walks of life to become investors.

I have a bachelor’s degree majoring in economics and statistics from _. I completed an internship focusing on finance and planning at _. Furthermore, I am currently working at a consulting company as a project assistant. My work experience so far has greatly built my analytical skills in addition to my communication abilities.

The post of a management trainee at Old Mutual is of great interest to me because I want to gather practical and innovative knowledge about finance and investments. Old Mutual, which offers diverse products that offer low to high risk investment plans as well as catering to all income levels, would be an excellent environment to gain formal training, increase my knowledge and build my career in finance.

My CV provides additional information about my educational background, experience and skills. I welcome any opportunity to provide further information in support of my candidacy. I would be grateful if you would offer me the opportunity to learn from and work for Old Mutual.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your favorable response.

Sample Cover Letter For A Graduate Trainee

Cover letter sample for a graduate trainee.

Organizations have been inviting graduates to apply for their graduate trainee programs, with the latest being advertised by Total Kenya and De La Rue. There may be others that you have come across in the recent weeks and if you are still yet to apply, you might be in the process of applying. That you are a graduate is only the first and most important qualification. However, getting picked from a pool of other graduates will require that you sell yourself accordingly through your CV and cover Letter.

Your Cover Letter will be the document accompanying your CV and probably the first thing employers and recruiting managers will see before even opening your CV. So, how well written is your cover letter? Does it compel recruiters and employers to open your CV? If you are having difficulties fitting important information on a page, below is a sample you can use. And here is one for a banking job when there is no advert.

Sample Cover Letter For Graduate Trainee

Job Seeker’s Name P.O Box 555 – 00100, Nairobi

Your Phone Number & Email Addres s

Human Resource Manager, XYZ Company Ltd, 5th Floor X House (Company Address) 8th April, 2016

Dear Sir/Madam (If you have the hiring manager’s name, use it)

I wish to apply for the graduate trainee position at your company, currently being advertised on your company website. Please find enclosed my CV for your consideration.

As you will see from my attached CV, I have recently completed my 4 year Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance option at the University of Nairobi and attained a 2nd Class Honors Upper division. I believe the knowledge I have acquired through my course work and the skills I picked up make me an ideal candidate for this opportunity.

I am interested in this position as it appeals directly to my passion for working with numbers and interest to learn by working in a fast paced environment. Aside from my degree, I have held various internship positions at various companies that have provided me with important hands-on experience to work as a foundation to build my career in finance.

In addition to my degree qualification, I recently took up a class towards my certification as a Finance professional and have participated in at least two financial forums to gain more knowledge on the current market trends.  I am confident that my passion and enthusiasm for the Finance field will prove valuable to your organization.

I look forward to an interview with you where we can have a detailed discussion on my suitability for the position. You can reach me anytime during the day on 0702******.  Thank you for your time and consideration.

39 Comments

Its a nice one.it is vital to me.

Great.what a nice cover letter that a probable employer can’t afford to put aside!

This a nice caver letter hope it will help me.

Good sample letter. Thank you..

Correct sample.has enlightened me and it help me

A very good piece. Am certain it’s going to help me a great deal somewhere.

Hello John,

Kindly send a copy of your current CV to [email protected] for further assistance.

This is a good piece my concern is the mobile phone no on the cover letter. should it be on the cv or both?

Comment Never.its a grivious mistake, and sign of disorganization. it Must be one page only

thanks this is very helpfull

this is very nice thank you

Im Adriver Of Ten Years Experiance With Class A B C E , So I Need Aproffetional Cvs. Im Avaible All The Time. Thankyou .

credible work indedmmmmm

finally this is what i wanted…thank you..which is the current CV format if I may ask kindly

What about the headline? it is missing here

Thanks,this is a good job

Can someone write on the back page of the letter page?

thanks for the advice very useful

looking for electrical technician job

actually have been trying to apply many jobs but no interviews am going to change now,have completed a diploma in IT,have been a ICT teacher almost 2yrs,and I would wish to change job category but in the same field of IT.personally am round of you.

thank you,your doing great.

i thank you for the sample cover letter.But how comes the letter has no title

I thank you for the sample cover letter, the letter has no title

hallo, how do i write a cover letter for a sales trainee position without an advert?

Hi perminus,thanks for the good work you doing.My question is when you come across job advert which doesn’t have the Name and the address of the company,how do you apply about this?

God will always bless your work. I like your articals. They are very helpfull.

Good stuff. Could you please do a sample cv for a graduate trainee? preferrably one with a degree or so, in Project Planning and Management.

Very important piece.. Thank you

you have such good tips.my concern is some vacancies are rare.example for graduathe in analytical vacancies and industrial chemistry.how do you help such graduates??

quite informative, but would you please help me understand while making an online application, do I have to write my cover letter directly or send it as an attachment!

Hi, I had earlier on pointed out on the flaws in a previous cover letter you had posted, and i honestly wonder if you take the comments we make here seriously. I am a Communication and PR student, and the letters that you post a sample of, am afraid that they are the ones my instructor tells me critical HR personnels would dismiss without having a second glance at. However, i won’t tire correcting:

The applicants name is not part of the sender’s address. Just write your address directly of you do not have an address of reference currently.

The date is not written on the recipient’s address but after the sender’s address and its suitable format is e.g, April 8, 2016.

In this age of the new media where we have the internet at our disposal, it’s pitiable of one to write dear Sir /Madam. This is what we call a ‘blind address’. You can easily know the gender of the person you are addressing your letter to. Not the capitals in Sir, Madam, in the salutation. Incase you use this, at the foot of your letter it will be-Yours faithfully… But in case you use the name instead it will be, yours sincerely.

The lette’s votehead is in this case missing but just to note, one should apply for employment, recruitment… But not for a vacancy or post.

You contact details come after your name. Eg Yours faithfully, signnature Sam. E-mail: Phone:

Finally, it does not hurt to end your letter with a thank you.

Several other corrections are to be made in the body, but i’ll leave it at that. NB: just an honest correction. Am an ardent follower of this website and since i perceive it to be proffessional, i correct it humbly.

Feedback always appreciated: E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 0704694734

This site is of much help to the job market needs.Kindly post one for a hr opportunity.thank you

Dear Mwangi, We do not ‘blacklist’ any candidate and you are welcome to apply for any vacancy that suits you. If you have identified a position that suits you, contact the recruitment officer who had interviewed you earlier on. Wishing you the very best. Regards, Perminus

thanks.this is very helpful

Wow thanks alot for such a wonderful cover letter….it’s so helpful to me since am a graduate searching for graduate trainee positions, entry level job or even internship for the experience gained. God bless.

Morning, Per minus, Good article and I haile what you do for the unemployed youth. I however, in my comments must have made a positive criticism that you or your staff might have not liked me for Or a contact to either of my referee might have given u a waylaid judgement about me. Why?, ~ how do you explain me applying for jobs that am outrightly qualified for and not getting even an interview information. I first thought it was undoing of my resume which I used a sample posted by you, and still!, I couldn’t get an invitation?!, keeping in mind that I travel overnight to attend your interviews from Eldoret. Am either forced to think that my original c.v. was just okay to warrant an interview with you or you have blacklisted me for your future recruitment practises which I found very wanton (if that’s the case) since this should be a national recruiter free of prejudice, favourism and clear of corruption. I am a worthy employee and I have the papers (in your database if not erased). All am asking is a fair chance. I don’t mind the trips if I loose an interview to the better person but let attend them if am qualified. NB: Periodically communicate the follies of an otherwise potential employee so that he can clinche the next interview. Thats what makes a cutting edge from the rest recruiting company. So that you know. I will still use corporate staffing for my job search. Thank you.

Thanks.This is very useful

Comments are closed.

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