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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Banking Job

Last Updated: July 11, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Kolby Goodman . Kolby Goodman is a Career & Job Search Coach and the Founder of The Job Huntr. With over eight years of experience, he specializes in resume edits, interview preparation, LinkedIn profile feedback, and professional interview coaching. Additionally, his career advice has been featured in publications such as The Huffington Post. Kolby holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from San Diego State University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 133,254 times.

If you are seeking a job in the banking industry, a cover letter is an essential component of your application process. Banks usually skim through large volumes of applications for open positions, so you need to maximize every word of your cover letter to make it stand out. Fortunately, by researching the company and the position, explaining how precisely you would fit both, and organizing and formatting your letter properly, you can increase the odds of your cover letter landing you the banking job of your dreams.

Gathering Information for Your Letter

• Study the company’s website closely. Look for anything that makes it distinctive in relation to its peers. Research its business strategy and culture, as well as all of the services it provides.
• For example, if the bank’s website highlights the amount of international clients it has, make a point of mentioning this fact in your cover letter and state that you’re particularly interested in international banking.
• Gather all the details you can about the nature of the position itself. Read the advertisement carefully. Reach out to the contact person on the job ad for more information.
• Whether you’re looking to become a loan officer at your local branch or an investment banker at a national firm, you should expect stiff competition for the job. A generic, cookie-cutter cover letter is unlikely to make the cut.

• For example, you can easily find a template and sample cover letter for a loan officer position online that uses a 3-paragraph format and bullet points to emphasize the most critical information. But this should only provide inspiration for a letter tailored to the precise job you are seeking.
• If you're sending out several applications to different banks, you can use the same rough template. But the heart of your letter, the central paragraph(s), should be specifically tailored to each particular position.

• Your letter essentially has to answer several key questions, including: “Who am I?”, “Why do I want this (specific) job?”, “Why should you want me for this (specific) job?”, and “What do I have (attributes, skills, experiences, etc.) that you need?”
• For example, when applying for a banking job, some skills that would make you a particularly strong candidate include communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and cash handling skills.
• If you want to get a job as a bank teller, it can be really helpful to garner some experience in a position that involves customer service and cash handling, such as a salesperson or cashier.

• This may be your academic achievements in relevant coursework; your prior successful experience in the industry; a successful internship with a glowing recommendation; or your relevant experiences in another field.
• For example, if you’re applying for a job as a bank teller, a good factor to emphasize would be your ample work experience in a customer service position that involved handling large amounts of cash.

Writing Your Letter

• Aim for at most 2-3 sentences for your introduction. Sticking to 35 total words, especially if you must stick with a one-page letter, will also leave ample space for the central paragraph(s).
• “Greetings. My name is Casey Weinberg, and I am applying for a job as an assistant branch manager” is brief but dull. Allow your introduction to introduce not only you, but the central components of your case for being hired: “Greetings. My name is Casey Weinberg, and with my 15 successful years of serving client needs both inside and outside the financial sector, I am ready to bring my knowledge and experience to being an assistant branch manager at Sunbelt Community Bank.”
• If you have any contacts or character references within the company, mention these in your introductory paragraph as well.

• An example of describing a positive achievement in a previous job would be: “As a project manager, I managed to successfully 3 projects within 4 months without going over our unit’s budget.”
• Be sure you match your skills and experiences to the specific qualifications listed in the job description. Give the reader a concrete sense of how your past experiences can come to bear in specific ways in this job.

• For example, if this particular banking company is known for producing some of the most successful people in the financial industry, say that you want to work for what is evidently one of the best financial institutions in the business.
• A slight hint of flattery and a lot of research will go a long way in this paragraph. Don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve when it comes to explaining why you’re seeking a job with this particular company.

• Make sure you include your contact information in this paragraph if it isn’t included at the top of your letter. If possible, include multiple different means of getting in touch with you.
• Thank the reader for their time and consideration before concluding the cover letter with “Sincerely, Casey Weinberg.”

Formatting and Editing Your Letter

• Use active phrases that focus on results and outcomes. Make it clear that you have gotten things done in the past and will continue to do so in this new position.
• For instance, consider the differing impact of the following 2 statements: “I’m a highly competent change management professional who has worked on a number of projects at major banks,” versus “I managed a team of 18 technology and business analyst staff who successfully switched to a major new payments system six weeks ahead of time and 8% under budget.”
• The more specific you can be in a limited number of words, the better.

• Some job postings may list word or page limits for cover letters. You can also ask the contact person if there are any.
• A cover letter is your opportunity to “personalize” your resume. They should complement each other to present a quick yet thorough portrait of you as a strong job candidate. Thus, place the most important information about you near the top of the letter, just as you would with a resume.

• Refrain from using bold fonts or colors; although these certainly will make your cover letter stand out, they may also make you seem unprofessional.
• With many letters to read and quick decisions to make, the people assessing applications want to be able to find what they need quickly and without distracting changes or errors. Nothing but the content of the text should occupy their attention.

• Use someone knowledgeable in the banking field, if possible, so they can suggest industry-specific clarifications, additions, or excisions.
• Always look for ways to cut words from your letter. A cover letter that references all the necessary information can never really be too short.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://hbr.org/2014/02/how-to-write-a-cover-letter
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-template
• ↑ Kolby Goodman. Career & Job Search Coach. Expert Interview. 28 June 2022.
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/recruitment/job-description/banker
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/cover-letter-format/
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/coverletters/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/powerful-ways-to-start-a-cover-letter
• ↑ https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/cover-letter-words/
• ↑ https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/cover-letters
• ↑ https://targetjobs.co.uk/career-sectors/investment-banking-and-investment/advice/412890-applying-for-an-investment-graduate-job-write-a-covering

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Sebatian Mwelwa

Oct 17, 2019

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Banking Cover Letter Guide With Templates & Examples

Learn how to write a banking cover letter with templates, samples, and important tips to make your job application stand out.

Pansy Thakuria

Read more posts by this author.

Banking jobs usually require you to submit a cover letter and a resume for a more detailed job application. Bankers are very professional and value paperwork.

As a banking candidate, you must know how to craft a perfect cover letter that your employer will assess. In your banking cover letter, you get to explain and highlight your skills, work experience, and how you can contribute to the company you’re applying to.

In this guide, we will learn how to create a cover letter to make you stand out from other candidates. We explore all the contents of a cover letter and what are the most important things to include in it.

What is a banking cover letter?

A banking cover letter is a short letter you write when you want to work in a bank. It's like a note introducing yourself to the bank and explaining why you want to work there. You mention your skills and experiences related to banking to show why you'd be a good fit for the job.

It's a way to get the bank's attention and interest them in hiring you.

Let’s look at some templates and examples.

Banking Cover Letter Template For Beginners With No Experience

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number] [Date]

[Hiring Manager's Name] [Bank Name] [Bank Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am reaching out to express my genuine interest in the [specific position] at [Bank Name], as mentioned in your recent posting.

A Bit About Me:

I recently graduated with a [Your Degree] from [Your University], where I delved into subjects like Finance and Accounting. It was an exciting journey that fueled my interest in the dynamic world of banking.

While I may not have direct banking experience, I've developed a solid understanding of financial principles during my studies. I'm also quite handy with Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word.

Why [Bank Name]?

[Bank Name] caught my eye because of its stellar reputation and commitment to [mention something specific about the bank, e.g., community involvement innovative services].

I am genuinely eager to be a part of a team that values [mention a key value of the bank, e.g., customer satisfaction, integrity].

What I Bring:

I am a quick learner, ready to absorb new information and contribute my best to the fast-paced banking world.

Beyond my academic qualifications, I bring a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for learning. I am confident that my adaptability will be an asset in a dynamic banking environment.

Let's Chat:

I am genuinely excited about the prospect of contributing to [Bank Name]'s success. I would love the opportunity to discuss how my eagerness and skills align with the goals of [Bank Name]. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to possibly joining the [Bank Name] family.

Warm regards, [Your Name]

A cover letter first-timer? Let’s help you with our easy-to-follow guide with customizable examples: Cover Letter Guide.

Banking Cover Letter Template For Experienced Professionals

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number]

As advertised, I am writing to express my interest in the [specific position] at [Bank Name]. With a robust background in banking and a proven track record of success, I am eager to bring my expertise to your esteemed institution.

Professional Snapshot:

Experience:

• Over [number] years of experience in various roles within the banking sector.
• [Briefly mention specific roles, e.g., Branch Manager, Financial Analyst].

Achievements:

• Successfully [mention a significant accomplishment, e.g., increased branch profitability by X%].
• Demonstrated proficiency in [mention relevant skills, e.g., risk management, portfolio analysis].
• I have been following [Bank Name]'s commitment to [mention a specific aspect, e.g., technological innovation, customer-centric services] and am eager to contribute to its continued success.

Key Strengths:

• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans to enhance overall branch performance.

Team Leadership:

• Successful track record of leading and motivating teams to achieve and exceed targets.

Customer Relationship Management:

• Adept at fostering strong relationships with clients, ensuring satisfaction and loyalty.

Let's Collaborate:

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and insights to [Bank Name]. I believe my experience aligns well with the goals of your institution.

I would welcome the chance to discuss further how my background and skills can benefit [Bank Name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your dynamic team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Banking Cover Letter Example And Sample For Experienced Professionals

Sarah Baker New town street Metropolis, MS 56789 [email protected] 999-000-222

Jess Anderson Prestige Bank 123 Financial Avenue Metropolis, MS 56789

I am writing to express my interest in the Senior Financial Analyst position at Prestige Bank, as advertised. With over 10 years of experience in the banking sector and a proven track record of success, I am eager to contribute my expertise to your esteemed institution.

• Over 10 years of experience in various roles within the banking sector.
• Worked as a Financial Analyst at Financial Excellence Inc. for five years, managing complex financial portfolios and conducting risk assessments.
• Successfully implemented a risk mitigation strategy that resulted in a 15% reduction in overall portfolio risk.
• Consistently exceeded quarterly revenue targets by 20%, contributing to the overall profitability of Financial Excellence Inc.

Why Prestige Bank?

I have followed Prestige Bank's commitment to technological innovation and its reputation for delivering customer-centric services. I am eager to bring my skills to an institution that values forward-thinking strategies and client satisfaction.

Strategic Planning:

• Developed and executed strategic plans to enhance overall branch performance, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Successfully led and motivated cross-functional teams, achieving and exceeding financial targets.
• Established and maintained strong relationships with clients, ensuring their financial goals aligned with the bank's offerings.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and insights to Prestige Bank. I believe my experience aligns well with the goals of your institution.

I would welcome the chance to discuss further how my background and skills can benefit Prestige Bank. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely, Sarah Baker

How to write a banking cover letter?

Writing a banking cover letter involves conveying your interest in a specific banking position, showcasing your relevant skills and experiences, and explaining why you are a strong fit for the role. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Contact Information

• Include your full name, address, phone number, and email at the top of the letter.
• Include the current date.

Employer's Information

• Add the hiring manager's name, bank name, address, and other relevant details.
• If possible, address the hiring manager by name (e.g., "Dear Mr. Smith"). If you don't know the name, use a generic greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager."

Introduction

• Start with a clear and concise introduction expressing your interest in the specific banking position.

Why You Are a Good Fit

• Briefly mention your relevant skills, education, and any specific achievements. Tailor this section to the job description.

Why the Bank

• Explain why you want to work for this particular bank. Mention any unique aspects, values, or services that attracted you.

Key Skills and Experiences

• Highlight the key skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate. Use bullet points for clarity.
• Express your enthusiasm for the position and eagerness to contribute to the bank's success.

Closing Salutation

• Use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards."
• Sign your name if sending a hard copy.

Email/Phone Number

• Include contact information again.

Tips for Writing a Banking Cover Letter:

Tailor to the Job Customize your letter for each application by addressing the specific requirements in the job posting.

Be Specific Use concrete examples to demonstrate your achievements and skills.

Quantify Achievements Where possible, quantify your accomplishments (e.g., "Increased branch profitability by 20%").

Research the Bank Show that you've done your homework by mentioning details about the bank's operations, values, or recent achievements.

Be Concise Keep the cover letter concise and focused, typically one page in length.

Proofread Eliminate spelling and grammatical errors to present a polished and professional letter.

Show Enthusiasm Convey genuine excitement about the opportunity to work for the bank.

The goal is to make a strong and positive impression that encourages the hiring manager to consider you a potential candidate.

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