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Morgan stanley cover letter and cv advice: telling your story.

targetjobs editorial team

25 Oct 2023, 09:21

Your Morgan Stanley cover letter and CV need to tell your personal narrative. Read on for guidance on how to ensure this and impress recruiters at this early stage of the firm’s application process.

Jump to: Crafting your Morgan Stanley CV | Perfecting your Morgan Stanley cover letter

Morgan Stanley is keen to find out your personal story, but don’t wait until the interview stage to share it. At targetjobs, we think that it’s a good idea to build this narrative in your Morgan Stanley cover letter and CV to impress the firm’s recruiters. Along with helping your application to stand out from other candidates’, this will also allow you to develop and hone your story from the get-go.

Telling your story is important as it shows recruiters that you have:

• made a careful and considered choice to apply for Morgan Stanley’s graduate and internship programmes
• the skills and requirements necessary for the specific graduate and internship schemes
• demonstrated skills that will be critical for the role that you are applying for.

Here are some pointers to make use of the experience you already have to tell a compelling and convincing story through your CV and cover letter.

MORGAN STANLEY CONTENT AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

We’ve got more advice to help you on your journey with Morgan Stanley.

How to tell a story in your Morgan Stanley CV

Tell a convincing story by tweaking your CV to specifically suit Morgan Stanley, rather than submitting a generic CV. Look at the skills and requirements that the job or internship description asks for and build your CV around these. You can do this by grouping experiences together that demonstrate specific skills.

For example, graduate roles at Morgan Stanley tend to ask that you are a ‘team player’. Highlight this skill by grouping instances from work, extracurricular activities and your education where you have worked successfully in a team.

For each, explain how your skills and qualities have been challenged and have developed. Show recruiters that there is a clear progression in your skills to the point where you are ready to apply to Morgan Stanley.

• Discover why teamworking skills are high on graduate recruiters’ wish lists .

Do not neglect any extracurricular activities or hobbies that may also serve as evidence of your skills and values that align with what Morgan Stanley is looking for. Experiences from outside of university and ‘relevant’ work experience are helpful for incorporating these qualities into your story.

For example, Morgan Stanley says that it is looking for candidates that ‘show that [they] have a life’. Recruiters look for this as it is an indicator of your time management skills: are you able to juggle university work with outside pursuits, for instance? The firm has also emphasised how it places a great deal of importance on ‘giving back’ and charitable pursuits.

• Find out more about how extracurricular activities can help you land a graduate job .

Remember that clear and consistent CV formatting will always convey the best possible impression.

If you want to open your CV with a personal statement or profile, make sure to write a tailored profile for Morgan Stanley. Use it to set out the beginnings of your story and outline some of the experiences that have made you want to apply, which you can then build on later on in your CV.

• Read here for more information about personal statements and whether you should include one in the first place.

Build on the story with your Morgan Stanley cover letter

Use your Morgan Stanley cover letter to expand on details from your CV and provide more detail and examples that will form the backbone of your story. In order to tell a convincing story make sure your cover letter follows a logical structure.

• Find out about writing and structuring a cover letter for investment banking roles here .

Elaborate on how you first encountered Morgan Stanley. If you have taken part in an internship or spring week or have attended a careers fair, for instance, use this as a starting point for your narrative. Talk about what stood out about this employer in particular, what you learned and what made you apply for the specific graduate or internship scheme in question. Another tack could be mentioning any news articles or interviews that you had read which featured Morgan Stanley.

It is crucial that every statement you make is backed up with an appropriate example. This will help evidence your story and reinforce your argument that you are the candidate that Morgan Stanley is looking for.

Some of Morgan Stanley’s graduate opportunities specifically ask for relevant experience in investment banking or finance. By bringing these up in your CV you can reflect on what you learned and how this informed why you particularly want to work for Morgan Stanley as opposed to other investment banks. If the graduate scheme or internship doesn’t specifically ask for relevant experience, you can still talk about experience from other fields. Make sure, however, that you relate these unrelated (but not irrelevant) experiences to why you are currently applying for the specific graduate programme.

When writing your cover letter for Morgan Stanley avoid the urge to use complicated or overly elaborate language. Instead make clarity and concision your priorities, especially as you want to keep the letter brief. Vary the length of your sentences. Consider also having shorter, easy to read paragraphs. Morgan Stanley has previously specifically asked for the ‘ability to summarise complex business problems with clarity and brevity’, and a professional, legible and lucid cover letter is the ideal opportunity to show that you would be ready to interact with clients in a professional environment.

Add the finishing touches to your Morgan Stanley application by using one of our free CV and cover letter templates . Make sure to set up your free targetjobs profile to see all the opportunities that we have available with the employer.

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Letter Templates

morgan stanley cover letter example

If you’re interested in applying for a position at Morgan Stanley, your cover letter is an important part of your application. A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and show the hiring manager why you’re the best candidate for the job. In this article, we’ll provide you with several Morgan Stanley cover letter examples to help you create a standout cover letter.

When it comes to applying for a job at Morgan Stanley, a strong cover letter can help you make a positive impression on the hiring manager. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Below are several Morgan Stanley cover letter examples to help you get started.

The following Morgan Stanley cover letter examples can serve as a starting point for creating your own cover letter. Be sure to edit and customize each example to fit your specific skills and experience. Remember, your cover letter should be tailored to the job you’re applying for and showcase why you’re the best candidate for the position.

If you’re unsure how to format your cover letter or what information to include, these examples can be a helpful guide. You can also find additional resources online or consult with a career counselor for advice on creating a standout cover letter.

Morgan Stanley Cover Letter Examples

Investment banking analyst.

Greeting: Dear Hiring Manager,

Body: I am excited to apply for the Investment Banking Analyst position at Morgan Stanley. My experience working in finance and my strong analytical skills make me a strong candidate for the position. In my current role at XYZ Company, I have gained experience analyzing financial statements and creating financial models. I am confident that my skills and experience align with the requirements of the position and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the success of Morgan Stanley.

Complimentary Close: Sincerely,

Equity Research Associate

Body: I am excited to apply for the Equity Research Associate position at Morgan Stanley. My experience conducting in-depth research and analysis of companies and industries, as well as my ability to communicate complex information clearly, make me a strong candidate for the position. In my current role at XYZ Company, I have gained experience analyzing financial data and trends, as well as communicating my findings to stakeholders. I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of the Morgan Stanley team.

Complimentary Close: Best Regards,

Wealth Management Advisor

Body: I am excited to apply for the Wealth Management Advisor position at Morgan Stanley. My experience working with high net worth clients, as well as my strong communication and relationship-building skills, make me a strong candidate for the position. In my current role at XYZ Company, I have developed a deep understanding of the financial needs of high net worth individuals and have built strong relationships with clients based on trust and clear communication. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the Morgan Stanley team.

Complimentary Close: Thank you for your consideration,

Technology Analyst

Body: I am excited to apply for the Technology Analyst position at Morgan Stanley. My experience working with complex technology solutions in a fast-paced environment, as well as my ability to analyze and troubleshoot technical issues, make me a strong candidate for the position. In my current role at XYZ Company, I have gained experience working with a variety of technology platforms and have developed strong problem-solving skills. I am confident that my skills and experience align with the requirements of the position and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the success of the Morgan Stanley team.

Complimentary Close: Best regards,

Operations Manager

Body: I am excited to apply for the Operations Manager position at Morgan Stanley. My experience managing complex operations and my ability to lead teams to success make me a strong candidate for the position. In my current role at XYZ Company, I have gained experience managing large-scale projects, as well as leading teams to complete projects on time and within budget. I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of the Morgan Stanley team and look forward to the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the role.

Marketing Coordinator

Body: I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at Morgan Stanley. My experience creating marketing materials and my ability to develop and execute marketing campaigns make me a strong candidate for the position. In my current role at XYZ Company, I have gained experience creating marketing materials for a variety of channels, as well as developing and executing marketing campaigns that have increased brand awareness and generated leads. I am confident that my skills and experience align with the requirements of the position and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the success of the Morgan Stanley team.

Tips for Writing a Morgan Stanley Cover Letter

When writing a cover letter for a job at Morgan Stanley, keep the following tips in mind:

• Research the company and the job you’re applying for.
• Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for.
• Highlight your relevant experience and qualifications.
• Showcase your skills and accomplishments.
• Use clear and concise language.
• Proofread your cover letter for errors and typos.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i format my morgan stanley cover letter.

When formatting your Morgan Stanley cover letter, use a professional and easy-to-read font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and keep your font size between 10 and 12 points. Use a standard business letter format, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, the hiring manager’s contact information, and a formal greeting. Use a clear and concise writing style, and aim to keep your cover letter to one page.

What should I include in my Morgan Stanley cover letter?

Your Morgan Stanley cover letter should include your contact information, a formal greeting, an introduction that highlights your interest in the position and the company, a body that showcases your relevant experience and qualifications, and a closing that thanks the hiring manager for their time and expresses your interest in the position. Be sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight why you’re the best candidate for the position.

How can I make my Morgan Stanley cover letter stand out?

To make your Morgan Stanley cover letter stand out, be sure to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, and showcase your skills and accomplishments. Use clear and concise language, and tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Be sure to proofread your cover letter for errors and typos, and aim to keep it to one page.

What should I avoid in my Morgan Stanley cover letter?

Avoid using generic language or copying and pasting from a template. Instead, tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Avoid making spelling or grammatical errors, and be sure to proofread your cover letter carefully. Avoid using a casual or overly familiar tone, and aim to keep your cover letter to one page.

How important is a Morgan Stanley cover letter?

A Morgan Stanley cover letter is an important part of your application for a job at the company. A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and show the hiring manager why you’re the best candidate for the job. Be sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight your relevant experience and qualifications.

Can I use a template for my Morgan Stanley cover letter?

While it’s okay to use a template as a starting point for your Morgan Stanley cover letter, be sure to customize it to fit your specific skills and experience. Avoid copying and pasting from a template, and be sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Use clear and concise language, and proofread your cover letter carefully for errors and typos.

How can I show my passion for working at Morgan Stanley in my cover letter?

To show your passion for working at Morgan Stanley in your cover letter, be sure to research the company and the position you’re applying for. Highlight how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the job, and express your excitement about the opportunity to contribute to the success of the Morgan Stanley team. Use clear and concise language, and proofread your cover letter carefully for errors and typos.

A strong Morgan Stanley cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and show the hiring manager why you’re the best candidate for the job. Be sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Use clear and concise language, and proofread your cover letter carefully for errors and typos. With these tips and examples, you can create a standout Morgan Stanley cover letter that will help you land the job.

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How to Prepare for Morgan Stanley Investment Banking Interviews

Are you preparing for a Morgan Stanley investment banking interview? Look no further! Our comprehensive guide will provide you with the tips and strategies you need to ace your interview and land your dream job.

Posted January 10, 2024

Featuring Asha T.

Investment Banking Recruitment Office Hours

Starting wednesday, july 10.

9:00 PM UTC · 30 minutes

Table of Contents

If you're looking to break into the competitive world of investment banking, then Morgan Stanley is definitely a company worth exploring. But, before you start polishing your resume and cover letter, it's important that you take some time to thoroughly prepare for the interview process. In this article, we'll provide you with all the information you'll need to give yourself the best possible chance of landing a job with Morgan Stanley.

Introduction to Morgan Stanley Investment Banking

Morgan Stanley is a global financial services company that offers a range of products and services to clients around the world. Its investment banking division provides advisory services, financing, and risk management solutions to corporations, governments, and institutions. As with all investment banks, the interview process at Morgan Stanley is rigorous and highly competitive. The company looks for intelligent, analytical, and highly motivated individuals who are able to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

In addition to its investment banking services, Morgan Stanley also offers a range of other financial products and services, including wealth management, asset management, and sales and trading. This broad range of offerings provides employees with opportunities to gain exposure to different areas of the financial industry and develop a well-rounded skill set. For individuals interested in a career in finance, Morgan Stanley is a top choice due to its reputation for excellence and its commitment to developing its employees.

One of the key factors that sets Morgan Stanley apart from other investment banks is its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The company actively seeks to recruit individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, recognizing that a diverse workforce is essential to its success. This commitment is reflected in the interview process, where candidates are evaluated not only on their technical skills and experience, but also on their ability to work effectively with others and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

Preparing for the Interview – General Steps for Success

Researching the company and industry trends.

Before you can prepare for your Morgan Stanley interview, it's important that you research the company, its values, and the investment banking industry as a whole. You'll need to have a strong understanding of the company's history, mission, and goals, as well as the key trends and challenges facing the investment banking industry today. You can find a wealth of information on Morgan Stanley’s website , including company press releases, annual reports, and industry news sources.

Additionally, it's important to research the specific division or team you are interviewing for. This will give you a better understanding of the types of projects and clients you may be working with, as well as the skills and experience required for the role. You can also reach out to current or former employees on professional networking sites like LinkedIn to gain insights into the company culture and interview process.

Understanding the Job Description and Required Skills

To be successful in your interview, you'll need to have a clear understanding of the job description and the skills and qualities that Morgan Stanley is looking for. Make sure to carefully review the job posting and identify the key responsibilities, skills, and qualifications that the company is seeking. You should also take the time to identify your own strengths and weaknesses, and be prepared to articulate how you can add value to the team.

It's also important to research the company culture and values, as well as the industry trends and challenges that the company is facing. This will help you to better understand the context of the job and how you can contribute to the company's success. Additionally, you should be prepared to ask thoughtful questions during the interview, to demonstrate your interest and engagement in the role and the company.

Finally, it's critical to practice your interview skills, including your communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities. You can do this by participating in mock interviews with friends or colleagues, or by seeking feedback from a career coach or mentor.

Crafting a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter will be the first point of contact between you and the company, so it's important that they are well-crafted and effective. Use your research of the company and job description to tailor your resume and cover letter to Morgan Stanley's needs. Make sure that each document is error-free, concise, and showcases your relevant experience and skills.

When crafting your resume, it's important to highlight your achievements and quantify your impact in previous roles. Use specific numbers and data to demonstrate your success and show how you can bring value to Morgan Stanley. Additionally, consider using a professional resume template to ensure that your document is visually appealing and easy to read.

As for your cover letter, it should not simply restate your resume. Instead, use it as an opportunity to showcase your personality and explain why you are passionate about the position and the company. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name and personalize your letter to the specific job you are applying for. Finally, proofread your cover letter multiple times to ensure that it is error-free and professional.

Read: Crafting the Perfect Investment Banking Resume: Best Practices

Networking with Current and Former Employees

Networking can be a valuable way to get an inside look at Morgan Stanley and the investment banking industry as a whole. Reach out to current and former employees on LinkedIn, attend industry events, and consider joining relevant professional organizations. You may also consider reaching out to a recruiter or headhunter who specializes in the investment banking industry.

When networking with current and former employees, it's important to approach the conversation with a clear understanding of what you hope to gain from the interaction. Consider preparing a list of questions or topics to discuss beforehand, and be sure to listen actively to the insights and experiences shared by the other person.

Another effective way to network with industry professionals is to attend conferences and events. These gatherings provide an opportunity to meet and connect with individuals who share your interests and goals. Be sure to bring business cards and follow up with any promising contacts after the event.

Read: Mastering Investment Banking Coffee Chats: Essential Tips and Strategies for Success

Preparing for the Interview – Morgan Stanley-Specific Steps to Take

Preparing for behavioral questions and case studies.

Morgan Stanley is known for asking behavioral questions and case studies during its interviews. Behavioral questions are designed to assess your past behavior and how you handle specific situations, while case studies test your ability to solve complex problems and think critically. Make sure to review common behavioral questions and have examples ready to share, and practice your problem-solving skills by working through case studies.

It is important to note that in addition to preparing for behavioral questions and case studies, you should also research the company and its culture. This will help you understand the values and goals of the organization, and allow you to tailor your responses to align with their mission. Additionally, be sure to dress professionally and arrive early to the interview to show your enthusiasm and preparedness.

During the interview, remember to listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and take your time to formulate thoughtful responses. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification if needed, and use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your skills and abilities. Finally, be confident and authentic in your responses, and remember that the interview is an opportunity for both you and the company to determine if it is a good fit.

Read: How to Nail the Second Most Common Investment Banking Interview Question ("Why This Firm?")

Practicing Technical Questions and Financial Modeling Exercises

In addition to behavioral questions and case studies, Morgan Stanley is also likely to ask technical questions and financial modeling exercises. These questions will test your knowledge of finance and accounting, as well as your ability to perform complex computations and analyses. Make sure to review your technical knowledge and practice your financial modeling skills using industry-standard tools like Excel.

When practicing technical questions, it is important to understand the underlying concepts and theories. This will help you to answer questions more confidently and accurately. You can find resources online or in textbooks to help you review these concepts. Additionally, it may be helpful to practice with a friend or mentor who can provide feedback and help you identify areas for improvement.

Financial modeling exercises can be challenging, but they are an important part of the interview process. These exercises will test your ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions based on that data. To prepare, you can practice with sample exercises or create your own using real-world financial data. This will help you to become more comfortable with the process and improve your skills.

Read: The Top 20 Most Frequently Asked Investment Banking Technical Interview Questions

Following Up After the Interview: Dos and Don'ts

Following up after a Morgan Stanley investment banking interview is a critical step that can help you leave a positive impression and showcase your continued interest in the position. Here are some dos and don'ts to consider:

• Send a Thank-You Email: Within 24 hours of the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to each person you interviewed with. Express your gratitude for their time, reiterate your interest in the position, and mention something specific from the interview to show your engagement.
• Reiterate Your Interest: Use the thank-you email to reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention aspects of the company's work, culture, or projects that resonate with you.
• Highlight Your Fit: Emphasize how your skills, experience, and passion align with the needs of the investment banking role and the company's goals. This is an opportunity to remind them why you're a strong candidate.
• Share Additional Insights: If there was a topic or point you didn't have a chance to elaborate on during the interview, you can briefly address it in your follow-up email. This can be a chance to provide more context to your qualifications.
• Show Appreciation: Express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and learn more about the company. Show that you value the insights gained during the interview process.
• Professionalism: Maintain a professional tone in your follow-up email. Use proper grammar and spelling, and ensure that your email is concise and to the point.

Don'ts:

• Don't Be Pushy: While it's important to express your interest, avoid being overly aggressive or pushy in your follow-up communication. Respect their time and decision-making process.
• Don't Overdo It: One follow-up email is generally sufficient. Sending multiple emails or trying to contact them through various channels can come across as excessive.
• Avoid Generic Messages: Make your thank-you email specific to the interview and the company. Avoid using generic templates that could make you seem insincere.
• Don't Bring Up Compensation: Avoid discussing compensation, benefits, or other sensitive topics in your follow-up email. Focus on your fit for the role and the company's culture.
• Don't Stalk on Social Media: While it's okay to connect with interviewers on professional platforms like LinkedIn, avoid excessive interaction or commenting on all their posts. Respect their online boundaries.
• Don't Expect Immediate Responses: Understand that the interviewers might be busy and might not respond immediately to your follow-up email. Be patient and allow them time to review their options.

In summary, a thoughtful and well-crafted follow-up after a Morgan Stanley investment banking interview can leave a positive impression and potentially enhance your chances of getting an offer. Keep your communication professional, concise, and genuine, showcasing your continued interest and fit for the role.

Read next: 37 Free Resources to Break Into Investment Banking

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This question is about Morgan Stanley .

How do you write a cover letter for a job at Morgan Stanley?

You write a cover letter for a job at Morgan Stanley by focusing on your desire to grow within the company. Morgan Stanley claims to have unparalleled opportunities at every level and across the globe. To that end, they want employees who are ready to jump in feet first and take on new challenges.

Focus your cover letter and your desire to succeed in the finance industry. Include your ability to lead, solve problems, and innovate.

Give examples of:

A time that you have been an innovator or decision-maker

A project that you have spearheaded and the outcome

A time you have thought outside of the box to solve a problem

A time that you empowered your team (or teammates)

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Why Morgan Stanley interview question

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A Cover Letter Template for Investment Banking

Reviewed by

Expertise: Private Equity | Investment Banking

NOTE FROM WSO:

• Attached at the bottom of this post is an investment banking cover letter template that is sometimes used for WSO cover letter review clients. WSO has decided to make it free in order to help those of you that can't afford a more tailored service.
• This particular cover letter template uses bullets to keep the points succinct and the format easy to read. You'll also notice that the header matches the WSO investment banking resume template format.

IB Cover Letter Advice from the WSO Community

Here's what you need to know about the cover letter.

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.

Why Do Cover Letters Matter?

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

Less Is More for CLs

Our users shared great input on why 'less is more'.

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.

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".

Common Cover Letter Mistakes

qonnect.me: Here are mistakes I have seen:

Excuses: "I realize my professional experience is more in technology and lacks in finance. I believe that was just 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."

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 me.

Revealing Your Ignorance: Even worse than just plain ignorance, the below quote was from an attached research report that this guy wrote. 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'.)

The Hail Mary Cover Letter

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

IB Interview Course Here

• Using phrasing like: "After my summer analyst stint, I learned the entire deal execution process..."; "I am extremely proficient in Excel and financial modeling ...". 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.

Patrick Curtis is a member of WSO Editorial Board which helps ensure the accuracy of content across top articles on Wall Street Oasis. Prior to becoming our CEO & Founder at Wall Street Oasis, Patrick spent three years as a Private Equity... This content was originally created by member econ and has evolved with the help of our investment banking mentors.

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It's really hard to create a template for cover letters because everyone is so different. Just make sure the formatting at the top (where you have your name, address etc..) is the same on all your documents. For example, if you open you resume, cover letter, transcript and references in 4 different pdfs, and alt+tab between the four files, the top section should be identical.

Other than that, there shouldn't be any template for cover letters, I don't think.

3-4 paragraphs about why that firm, why you, what have you done. etc...

Thanks you...

Make sure the first paragraph includes name drops, and location/group if you're applying to a specific group.

Any more cover letter advice? I haven't received any callbacks with my old cover letter, so I'm trying to put together a new and improved one. Here's what I've came up with thus far: http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/please-review-my-resume-3#comment…

If you are not getting interviews it likely isn't the layout of your cover letter or resume that is is the problem, it is the content. Why not post your cover letter / resume here and let people take a look at it?

judowned: If you are not getting interviews it likely isn't the layout of your cover letter or resume that is is the problem, it is the content. Why not post your cover letter / resume here and let people take a look at it?

I finally got a job... Thanks to everyone who chimed in.

econ: judowned: If you are not getting interviews it likely isn't the layout of your cover letter or resume that is is the problem, it is the content. Why not post your cover letter / resume here and let people take a look at it?

Congrats man

congrats how did you land the job? just applying online? what kind of position is it?

Good work Eazy - E

[quote="econ"] NOTE FROM WSO:

• Attached at the bottom of this post is an investment banking cover letter template that is sometimes used for WSO cover letter review clients. WSO has decided to make it **free** in order to help those of you that can't afford a more tailored service.

Interested and can't find it. Does anybody has the template?

Found it? can't find it either

Nah I had to use the Mergers & Inquisitions template. Quite good still.

@ econ "  can't find the template mate. An update would be much appreciated!

Vitae cum et deserunt sed commodi maiores. Rem doloremque et et voluptas dolorum.

Placeat qui dolor nemo soluta alias voluptas. Est commodi reprehenderit in et blanditiis. Ducimus eos aliquam nesciunt error eius molestias placeat sit. Nam eum quasi ad explicabo fugit quisquam temporibus dolorem.

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How To Write A Cover Letter (With Templates)

You’ve found your dream job. You read the job description and it seems like you’re a great match, so you apply. You upload your recently spruced up CV and then proceed to the next part of the application where it says: ‘Cover Letter (Optional)’ .

You’ve spent a lot of time perfecting your CV . That’s a given. So it can seem like a waste of time to essentially transfer that information into a cover letter, right? Wrong .

The cover letter is your opportunity to truly sell yourself. Your CV sells your skills, but a lot of applicants will have similar information in this respect. Your cover letter is your chance to stand out and get noticed, letting your personality shine through. Perfecting your cover letter for every job application is definitely worth the time and effort. How to write a cover letter that will get you noticed is n important skill to possess.

Here are some of the most important cover letter writing tips:

1. What is a cover letter?

2. Do you need a cover letter for every job application?

3. How to write a cover letter that captures the hiring manager’s attention

Do #1: Display you have carried out thorough research

Do #2: grab their attention with a strong opening statement, do #3: clearly exhibit the value you would add to the company, do #4: highlight your enthusiasm for the job, do #5: say more by saying less.

4. More: Cover letter best practice

Do #6: Make sure you address it to the right person

Do #7: make sure you get your cover letter format right, do #8: make sure you tailor each cover letter you write, do #9: remember to follow up after sending your cover letter.

5. Five Don’ts: Common cover letter blunders to avoid

6. Free downloadable cover letter templates

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a written document that is often submitted alongside a CV when you’re applying for a job . Sometimes referred to as a ‘letter of introduction’ or an ‘application letter’ , it is essentially an opportunity to sell your application and showcase yourself as an eligible candidate before the hiring organisation reviews your CV.

It is crucial to remember that your cover letter should never duplicate your CV or resume , but rather complement it by mentioning why you (as highlighted by your skills and experience on your CV) are the right person for the job.

Do you need a cover letter for every job application?

There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there from a wide range of sources. Many people question whether it’s worthwhile nowadays when prospective employers can access the information they need simply by looking at your LinkedIn profile. Others will say that not sending a cover letter is a clear sign of laziness - similar to leaving spelling errors in your CV.

“57% of professionals rank a cover letter as an essential aspect of every job application.”

We’ll leave it to you to pick which side you sit on, but we will say this: Producing a high-quality cover letter is your unique opportunity to set yourself apart from other applicants by explaining why you’re the best candidate for the job.

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How to write a cover letter that captures the hiring manager’s attention

So, you have this priceless opportunity to emphasise your suitability to the employer for the job they are advertising. How can you make sure you nail it? Here are 5 key areas hiring managers look out for...

Before you put pen to paper for your cover letter, you should always do some proper research. This means doing more than just reading the job description. 

Not only will your investigation provide priceless context and background knowledge, but learning more about the business you are applying to join will also guide how you should alter the tone of voice of your cover letter.

The key things you may want to find out include:

• The name and job title of whoever is likely to receive your cover letter
• What the company’s corporate culture is like
• Their position in the market and closest competitors
• Any recent news or significant trends for the sector
• The company’s goals and objectives
• Whether there are any challenges the company faces

You have a portfolio of precious knowledge stashed away. Now it’s time to get writing. 

As with any piece of writing, you need to grab the reader’s attention straight away or you risk losing them. A lot of other applicants will go for the inevitable “I’m applying for this role because…” , so think outside the box. What’s different about you? What is the leading thing about you they would be interested to hear? Remember, they will want someone who is genuinely excited by the job and is the right fit - try to convey that . 

Think outside the box, but we would recommend avoiding humour. It’s fine to be light hearted (still, judge this on a company-by-company basis) , but it is a professional job application after all.

Note: If you have a personal connection with the company or one of its employees, mention that as early as possible.

In many instances, the purpose of hiring a new employee is to find someone who can help the business solve problems - this is a huge generalisation, but more often than not, it is the truth. Hiring managers will be looking for evidence in your cover letter that you can help the team or department you’ll be joining solve their problems.

The best way to do this is to write about how your past professional experience has equipped you to take on challenges encountered in your role, and then relate them to the specific vacancy and company you are applying to.

This new job opportunity is exciting; it’s a chance to progress your career alongside like-minded colleagues, whilst working for a company you’ve admired for some time. You really, really want the job . You wouldn’t be applying otherwise, right?

Well then, make that abundantly clear in your cover letter. Lots of other applicants will have the right skills and experience, some may even be better equipped than you are , but enthusiasm and dedication to the job is what the hiring manager will be looking out for. Put your heart and soul into the cover letter and be authentic; authenticity sells .

Try to match your writing to the sort of language the hiring manager, or whoever is likely to review your application, would use with their customers.

In order to get a grasp of this, you may have to do a bit of additional research, but that’s a small sacrifice to make for taking a large stride towards getting your dream job.

How long should a cover letter be? Well, a lot of sources will say that 1 side of A4 is the appropriate length for your cover letter. But why not go shorter?

The most important thing to remember here is that there is already a huge amount of information on your CV .

Your cover letter should not just reword what’s on your CV . 

Yes you can re-emphasise key aspects that are closely related to the new job, but otherwise refrain from duplicating your skills and past experience. If you manage to do that, you will have more freedom to convey your enthusiasm for the job and the letter will be short enough that the hiring manager can read it at just a glance.

It can be difficult to know the best approach of how to write a cover letter that stands out. But if you can describe all necessary information and display your desire for the role in as little time as possible, you will show yourself as a concise communicator.

More: Cover letter best practice

We’ve taken you through how to write a cover letter and now we’re going to go over the best practice when you’re writing it. 

Coming before your opening statement, the salutation is the first thing the hiring manager will read. It is vital that you correctly address your cover letter to the right person. 

Find out the name and job title of the person who will be dealing with your application. Quite often there will be contact details on the job description or advert, but if not, do a bit of digging on LinkedIn or the company’s ‘meet the team’ page on its website. 

You may have to use your initiative a bit, but it will definitely be worth it. ‘To whom it may concern’ or ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ is generic and should pretty much be your last resort.

You want to draw attention to your most relevant skills and experiences and then highlight how they can benefit the employer if you were successful in your application. Here’s how to effectively order your cover letter :

Paragraph 1: Catch the imagination of the reader with an interesting opening statement and why you want to get the job.

Paragraph 2: Now go into a bit more detail about why you’re suited to the job, linking your skills and experience to the job description, outlining what benefits you can bring to the organisation.

Paragraph 3: Focus a bit of attention on why you’re particularly interested in working for the company - what was it that attracted you to apply?

Closing paragraph: Round up your letter and re-emphasise your interest in the job before thanking the employer for reviewing your application and that you look forward to hearing from them in due course.

This is your opportunity to stand out from the crowd and get noticed. That means you need to be original and different. 

If you’re applying to several vacancies and decide to use the same cover letter that has just been tweaked slightly with adjusted salutations, you’re clearly not dedicated to the job search . You’re wasting your own precious time as well as the hiring manager’s. Write a completely new cover letter for every position you apply to .

Avoid using vague or generic phrases, mirror the terminology used in the job description, illustrate your most relevant skills with clear examples and always refer to their company values or culture .

Taking the time over your cover letter will be worth it!

You’ve paid close attention to how to write a cover letter. You've made a real effort to get it close to perfect. You’ve matched up your skills with what the hiring organisation requires, you’ve drawn attention to how much you want the job and to work for the business and you’ve done it all in a concise, thoroughly checked, manner. You click send . 

Now you could just wait to hear back, or you could be proactive and send a follow up email to confirm that your application (and all accompanying documents)  has been received. 

Not only is this good practice, but it also puts you directly in the hiring manager’s inbox, meaning they will be more likely to remember your name and application, putting yourself in the best possible position of being invited to interview . 

Give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve just made the perfect application to your dream job.

5 Don’ts: Common cover letter blunders to avoid

Before you finish reading and head off to nail your cover letter ( if you’ve got one to write and that’s why you’re here) , take a look at these 5 common mistakes that people make when writing theirs:

• Your salutation isn’t specific - Your cover letter should always be directly addressed to the person who will be dealing with your application. More often than not, there will be a contact on the job description, but if not some simple LinkedIn investigation should give you what you need.
• You’ve just rewritten your CV - Just rewriting your CV is not the best way to sell yourself in a cover letter. It should be unique and prove to the potential employer that you are a worthy applicant. Be original and make yourself stand out.
• Your opening line is boring - You need to create a sense of intrigue. Think creatively how you can write about yourself and your career to captivate the reader’s imagination straight away - attention spans are notoriously short, so make an early impact!
• You’ve waffled on - There is not enough space to recount your entire life story, and anyway it is not relevant to the application. Be clear, concise, and keep it under 1 side of A4.
• You’ve said the job will help develop your skills - Whilst it very much may be true, telling your potential future employer how much you’d love this job because it will give you the chance to progress through your career is not something to include on your cover letter. Remember, you want to show what you can bring to the team not how this job will help you.

Free downloadable cover letter templates

Every cover letter that you submit as part of any job application should be unique. This said, you don’t necessarily need to start from scratch every time - the core basis of your letters can remain the same, you just need to tailor the contents to be as relevant as possible to the specific application.

Here are a few templates for situations where you may need a certain type of cover letter:

• Career Progression Cover Letter Template
• Changing Careers Cover Letter Template
• Currently Unemployed Cover Letter Template

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7 Essential Tips on How to Format a Cover Letter

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7 Essential Tips on How to Format a Cover Letter was originally published on Resume.io .

When you come to writing one of the most important letters in your life, you may need a few ground rules to help you to get started with the format of your cover letter.

That blank page can look awfully daunting otherwise.

Here are some must-follow tips around the structure and content of your cover letter:

Well-designed header

The header section of the cover letter should be attractive and space efficient. Graduates might be tempted to select a header design that reduces the amount of space that they need to fill for their cover letter, but you will have more to say than you think.

The header should contain all essential contact details (in addition to those on your resume) – full name, email, and mobile. You don’t have to include your full address and you definitely don’t have to include the “inside address” of your employer.

Mouthwatering intro

The intro of a recent grad or early career cover letter should be far more than a “this is what I want out of my career.” The hiring manager understands that you want the job – applicants need to prove to them that they are worthy of it. Make a compelling case.

The cover letter introduction should lead with your most relevant accomplishment for the role in question, with a hint of personality around how you achieved it. Avoid a generic cover letter that you send to everyone – you might not have much experience, but you should still strive to be as selective as possible.

Only relevant career stories with context

The length and content of your cover letter should be dictated by the amount of relevant experience that you have to share. Do not feel that you need to fill a page by parroting the responsibilities of the role or long lists of skills and personality traits without evidence.

Empty space is better than empty words – employers will value quality over quantity for the early career professional. What they want to understand in the cover letter is that you understand the demands of the role and can justify why you think you will do a good job.

Conclusion with call-to-action

End the conclusion of the early-career cover letter with a final detail about your personality and motivation and share your interest in learning more about the role. Saying that you hope to have the opportunity of an interview to learn more about the role is a powerful call-to-action which demonstrates your belief in yourself. Remember to keep the tone hopeful.

After the raw content come the syntax and visual choices:

Powerful action verbs

When you only have a certain number of sentences to create a favorable impression, your choice of verb can have a surprising impact on how your messages are received. Insightful action verbs can add a new level of meaning. Did you “manage” or “orchestrate” a project?

A word of warning: sprinkle action verbs and other buzzwords liberally. The cover letter should read like a conversation starter, so ensure that it sounds natural enough.

Impactful fonts, sensible sizes, and shot paragraphs

Increasingly the font size to take up more space on the page will fool no one. Stick with a standard 10 or 12 size and choose a suitable professional font that is easy to read.

Use short 2-4-line non-indented paragraphs and leave a line between each one. Give the reader a natural break between each of your career stories and consider using bullet points for your greatest accomplishments (the ones that you can ideally quantify with numbers). The cover letter should be strictly no more than one page – ideally aim for 3/4 of a page.

Right choice of template

Finally, very few cover letters or resumes are send as a blank word document these days. There are a wide choice of resume and cover letter templates – it is a great idea to use the same visual look for both your cover letter and resume. When a hiring manager is viewing a large number of candidates, this association will stick in their minds.

There is a subtle art to writing a persuasive cover letter when you do not have experience.

Strike a balance between outlining hopes for the future and sharing the greatest hits from your past. Your future employer will want to understand both.

If you are curious to explore further (you should be), the following article from Resume.io provides substantial further food for thought: “ How to Format a Cover Letter in 2022: Examples and Tips ”