Guaranteed Résumés

How Do I Write a Cover Letter?


Copyright © 1998-2001 by Kevin Donlin

Question

I recently graduated from computer science. However, I want to pursue a career in investment banking.

I took several business courses, such as accounting, marketing and management. Although I did not have a chance to take finance courses, I read books in that area. I have been interested in investment banking since my senior year. I have several activities as treasurer, and fund-raiser. I have developed my interpersonal, leadership and communication skills through those activities.

I am looking for an entry-level position in investment banking. I have learned that investment banking is open for all majors. But, I do not know how to tell the future employers that I am fit for that position in my cover letter, since I do not have any working experience. Please help.


Answer

Cover letters can be problematic, because they force you to talk about yourself, and many people don't feel comfortable or qualified to do this. But you can!

The job of the cover letter is to highlight those skills and experience that best suit the position you're applying for. You mentioned that you don't have work experience in investment banking, but were involved with banking-related activities, such as treasurer and fund-raiser. So highlight those! Just because you did something as a student or as an unpaid volunteer, doesn't mean it isn't valuable experience.

Also, highlight the skills that will help you do a good job in investment banking. Are you detail-oriented? Analytical? Organized? These are desirable traits. And be sure to mention the relevant courses you took -- accounting, marketing and management. Finally, include the fact that you've been interested in investment banking for some time.

A good cover letter should grab the reader's attention and point out why you, above other applicants, should be called for an interview. If your enthusiasm for the position comes through, and is backed up by facts (and some research about the company, if possible), your cover letter will be effective.

Click here to learn about "Resume and Cover Letter Secrets Revealed," an ebook of proven resumes and cover letters that's guaranteed to produce results -- or your money back!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Free content for your Web site!
Career Site Webmasters: Free professional content -- yours for the taking!

This article was written to assist readers in their job search. You are invited to use it in your publication or Web site. The only requirement is that you include the following resource box after each article:

**************************************************************************************
Article by Kevin Donlin of Guaranteed Résumés, a Minneapolis-based résumé service.
Since 1995, Guaranteed Résumés has provided résumés, Internet résumés, cover letters and job searches for clients in 44 states and 23 countries.

For more information, point your browser to http://www.gresumes.com

Subscribe to Employment Dispatch, a free monthly newsletter!
dispatch@aweber.com

**************************************************************************************


Services | Get Started | The Story | Contact
FREE Analysis | FREE Resources | Book Store
Home | Testimonials | FAQ
FREE Monthly Newsletter - Employment Dispatch

Questions? Comments? E-mail kevin@gresumes.com Or call 800.875.8378.
A portion of every sale is donated to the American Cancer Society.