Investment Banking Cover Letter Templates & Tips
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Writing an investment banking cover letter may look like a thing you can skip, but in reality, it's one of the best investments you can make. A well-written cover letter for investment banking jobs can significantly impact your chances of getting invited to an interview.
Read on, and I will show you everything you need to know about writing a cover letter that will help you unlock the next level in your career.
This guide will show you:
- Two investment baking cover letter examples better than 9 out of 10 others.
- How to write a cover letter for investment baking jobs, step by step.
- Investment banking cover letter samples to show you exactly how to write each part of your cover letter.
- A simple hack to make your cover letter for investment banking jobs even more effective.
Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from 20+ professional cover letter templates that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.
Sample Cover Letter for a CV—See more cover letter templates and create your cover letter here.
Check out some of the other guides that you may be interested in:
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- Consulting Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips
- How To Write a Motivation Letter? Examples & Writing Tips
- Career Change Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips
- Internship Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips
- Graduate Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips
Investment banking cover letter example
James Smith
123 Market Street
Manchester
M1 1AN
james.smith@email.com
078 3879 6162
Elizabeth Turner
Head of Recruitment
Barclays
1 Churchill Place
London
E14 5HP
1st August, 2024
Dear Elizabeth,
As a seasoned investment banker with over a decade of experience in corporate finance and M&A at JP Morgan, I was thrilled to discover the Senior Investment Banker position at Barclays. With a proven track record of driving multimillion-pound deals and leading cross-functional teams to success, I am confident that my expertise aligns perfectly with Barclays's high standards.
Throughout my career, I have consistently delivered exceptional results. At JP Morgan, I spearheaded the £1.2 billion acquisition of a leading pharmaceutical company, which resulted in a 15% increase in market share within the first year. My ability to identify lucrative investment opportunities and execute complex transactions has been recognised with multiple awards, including the “Investment Banker of the Year” by the Financial Times.
At JP Morgan, my achievements include:
- Leading the advisory team for a £750 million cross-border merger, enhancing the client’s global footprint.
- Driving a £500 million capital raise for a technology firm, significantly improving its innovation capabilities.
- Successfully negotiating and closing over 20 high-profile M&A deals totalling £10 billion in value.
Joining Barclays represents an exciting opportunity to leverage my skills and experiences to contribute to your esteemed firm’s continued success. I am particularly drawn to Barclays’ commitment to innovation and sustainable finance, areas where I have both passion and expertise.
I am eager to bring my strategic vision and execution prowess to Barclays and discuss how I can contribute to your ambitious growth plans. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to arrange a meeting.
Sincerely,
James Smith
P.S. I’d love to share how I achieved a 40% increase in client acquisition in a highly competitive market, potentially over a coffee at your convenience.
Investment banking internship cover letter example
Emma Johnson
45 Rose Lane
Edinburgh
EH1 2AB
emma.johnson@email.com
078 8456 5256
Michael Brown
Internship Coordinator
Goldman Sachs
Peterborough Court, 133 Fleet Street
London
EC4A 2BB
1st August, 2024
Dear Michael,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Summer Internship Program at Goldman Sachs. Currently pursuing a BSc in Economics at the University of Edinburgh, I have developed a solid foundation in financial analysis, corporate finance, and market research, and I am eager to apply these skills in a dynamic environment like Goldman Sachs.
During my time at university, I completed an internship at Deloitte, where I gained hands-on experience in financial consulting and developed key skills in data analysis and client communication. My role involved assisting in the preparation of financial reports and conducting market research, which culminated in a 20% increase in client satisfaction through streamlined reporting processes.
At Deloitte, I achieved the following:
- Conducted detailed financial analysis for 15 client projects, providing actionable insights.
- Assisted in the preparation of financial models that supported a £10 million investment decision.
- Developed a comprehensive market research report that identified new growth opportunities for a key client.
Goldman Sachs stands out to me not only because of its reputation for excellence but also due to its commitment to innovation and professional development. I am particularly impressed by your initiatives in sustainable finance and believe my academic background and internship experience have equipped me to contribute effectively to these projects.
I am keen to discuss how my skills and experiences align with Goldman Sachs's goals and how I can contribute to your team's success. Please feel free to contact me to arrange an interview at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
Emma Johnson
P.S. I would love to explain how my market research led to a 15% increase in investment opportunities identified at Deloitte, perhaps during a brief meeting or call.
You can use each of the examples above as your cover letter template for investment banking jobs. Now, let me share with you some actionable tips on writing a perfect investment banking cover letter:
How to write an investment banking cover letter:
1. Pick the best investment banking cover letter template
You should think of your investment banking cover letter as the finely tailored outfit you’d wear to a high-stakes negotiation. Just as that garment is meticulously chosen to convey professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail, your cover letter must be crafted to impress the discerning eyes of hiring managers.
Your cover letter is your first opportunity to make a lasting impression. It must reflect the precision, analytical prowess, and strategic thinking that define successful investment bankers. Here’s how to structure it to showcase your qualifications effectively:
Investment banking cover letter template
- Your contact information
- Investment bank’s contact information in a professional business letter format
- Date of writing
- Greeting (e.g., Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name])
- Engaging introduction
- Paragraph highlighting why you’re the ideal candidate
- List of key investment achievements to demonstrate your capabilities
- A paragraph explaining why you’re drawn to this specific financial institution
- Closing paragraph with a compelling call to action
- Complimentary closing (e.g., Sincerely) followed by your name
With a cover letter formatted to a T, it’s much easier to make a great first impression in the competitive world of investment banking, even if you’re writing an investment banking cover letter with no experience.
Read more: Cover Letter Formatting & Cover Letter Structure
2. Craft an attention-grabbing investment banking cover letter intro
Your investment banking cover letter introduction needs to capture attention like a blockbuster IPO. It’s crucial as it’s your first and best chance to make a lasting impression.
Think of your cover letter introduction as a powerful pitch—it needs to be concise, engaging, and tailored to the specific role and company. Start with a compelling statement followed by a highlight of your key achievements.
Investment banking cover letter: examples of introductions for an experienced candidate
| RIGHT |
|---|
Dear Mr. Brown, With over a decade of experience at Titan Capital, where I led the advisory team on the £1.2 billion acquisition of a top pharmaceutical firm, I was excited to learn about the senior investment banker position at Apex Finance. My track record of executing high-value deals and driving strategic growth initiatives has consistently resulted in significant revenue increases, and I am confident that my expertise aligns perfectly with the high standards of Apex Finance. |
Notice how the candidate in the sample above has mentioned a notable career accomplishment relevant to the desired job? First, they grab the recruiter's attention by addressing them by their name, and then they proceed with a clear value proposition.
| WRONG |
|---|
Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to express my interest in the senior investment banker position at your esteemed firm. With many years of experience in the financial industry, I have developed a strong skill set in various areas of investment banking. I believe my background makes me a suitable candidate for this role. |
The investment banking cover letter intro above is a perfect example of what not to do. It lacks personalisation, as it uses the dreaded “Dear Sir/Madam.” Plus, it’s so generic and boring that it could be a viable melatonin alternative for everyone with sleep problems.
Now, let’s look at some sample introductions for candidates applying for investment banking internships:
Investment banking cover letter: sample introductions for an internship candidate
| RIGHT |
|---|
Dear Ms. Wilson, As a top-ranking Finance student at the London School of Economics, I was thrilled to discover the internship opportunity at Quantum Bank. My recent internship at Griffin Advisory, where I assisted in the preparation of financial models for a £500 million capital raise, has equipped me with the analytical skills and market knowledge needed to excel in investment banking. I am eager to bring my passion for finance and strong work ethic to your esteemed firm. |
This example does everything right. It’s personalised, full of enthusiasm, and it highlights the candidate’s accomplishments during their last internship. Remember that if you don’t have any work experience, you can always highlight your relevant academic achievements.
| WRONG |
|---|
Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to apply for the internship position at your investment bank. As a student studying finance, I have always been interested in the financial industry and believe I have the skills to succeed. My education and background make me a good fit for your company. |
The example above is full of clichés and lacks specifics that could attract the recruiter's attention, which is why it fails to connect with the reader.
Before we move on to the next chapter, one last thing: remember that the main goal of your investment banking cover letter introduction is to hook the reader and make them want to learn more about you. That’s why you should avoid generic statements and also tailor this part of your cover letter.
Read more: How to Start a Cover Letter? Actionable Expert Tips
3. Craft a great middle paragraph for your cover letter for investment banking
The investment banking sector in the UK is on the rise. The number of investment banking businesses has increased, on average, by 7.6% yearly between 2018 and 2023. To jump in on the new opportunities, you need a strong cover letter middle, which will prove why you’re the perfect match.
The main paragraph of your cover letter is where you need to sell yourself as the best candidate for the job. Just like banks competing for the next big IPO, you need to present your qualifications compellingly and convincingly.
This is how to write a great investment banking cover letter middle:
- Present your relevant experience and achievements: mention specific achievements that align with the job requirements. Don’t forget to use numbers and details to make your accomplishments stand out.
- Explain your motivation for the position: show why you’re particularly interested in this role and this company. Make it clear to the reader that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely excited about the opportunity.
Let’s see some examples:
Investment bank cover letter examples—body paragraphs
| RIGHT |
|---|
During my tenure at Titan Capital, I successfully led the advisory team in the £1.2 billion acquisition of a major pharmaceutical company. This achievement not only showcased my ability to manage high-stakes deals but also demonstrated my expertise in strategic financial analysis and client relationship management. Additionally, I spearheaded several initiatives that resulted in a 20% increase in client satisfaction and a 15% boost in revenue. At Titan Capital, my key achievements include:
I am particularly drawn to Apex Finance due to its innovative approach to investment banking and its commitment to sustainable finance. Your recent efforts in promoting green investments resonate deeply with my professional values and personal interests. I am eager to bring my expertise in financial analysis and strategic planning to your esteemed firm and contribute to your continued success. |
The example above works because the candidate highlights their achievements and presents quantifiable results. What’s more, they also explain their motivation well, making themselves appear more trustworthy and genuine in the eyes of the recruiter.
| WRONG |
|---|
I have always been passionate about investment banking and have developed a strong set of skills over the years. My experience includes working with various financial models and participating in several high-profile projects. I believe I have the qualifications necessary for this position and would love the opportunity to work at your firm. I am excited about the prospect of joining your team because I have always admired your company. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a great fit for the role. |
This example sounds so generic that it’s almost cringe-worthy. After all, tailoring your cover letter to a particular job offer is both about being professional and respecting the recruiter’s time.
Let’s take a look at two more examples of investment banking cover letter middles—this time for internship candidates.
Investment bank internship cover letter examples—body paragraphs
| RIGHT |
|---|
During my internship at Griffin Advisory, I assisted in preparing financial models for a £500 million capital raise, which honed my analytical and quantitative skills. This experience, combined with my coursework in advanced financial analysis at the London School of Economics, has equipped me with a strong foundation in investment banking. At Griffin Advisory, I achieved the following:
I am particularly excited about the opportunity at Quantum Bank because of your firm’s dedication to innovation and client-centric approach. The chance to contribute to your team and learn from industry leaders is a prospect that aligns perfectly with my career aspirations. |
This candidate is not only proactive and results-oriented but also knows how to showcase these traits effectively in a cover letter. I’m sure they’re highly likely to get that internship!
| WRONG |
|---|
I am currently a finance student and have completed several projects as part of my coursework. I believe I have the skills needed for the internship position at your company. My education has provided me with a good understanding of financial concepts, and I am eager to gain real-world experience in investment banking. I am interested in your firm because it is well-known and respected in the industry. I am confident that I can be a valuable addition to your team and look forward to the opportunity to prove myself. |
If you want your cover letter to be effective, you need to strike a delicate balance between showcasing your awesomeness and focusing on what the recruiter is looking for. The candidate who wrote the sample above failed to do so, as they focused solely on themselves. To make matters worse, they wrote a cover letter that could describe any random investment banking internship candidate.
Read more: What to Include in a Cover Letter? + Examples
4. Close your investment banking cover letter with a strong call to action
No transaction is complete until you’ve closed the deal (and celebrated!). Similarly, your investment banker cover letter isn’t finished without a proper closing statement. Let’s find out how to craft a cover letter closing paragraph that leaves a lasting impression and entices the recruiter to contact you.
In the final paragraph, ask for an interview and express your enthusiasm for the role once again. Remember: a strong call to action is the sine qua non-element of an effective cover letter for investment banking positions! Let’s see an example:
Cover letter for investment banking jobs example—closing paragraph
| RIGHT |
|---|
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience at Titan Capital can contribute to the continued success of Apex Finance. I am eager to bring my strategic insights and proven track record in high-value transactions to your esteemed team. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to arrange a meeting. Sincerely, James Anderson |
This candidate knows how to write a cover letter for investment banking jobs—they’re confident but at the same time polite. Notice how they asked for a meeting without being pushy? This is how you leave a positive impression without making the recruiter feel pressured.
| WRONG |
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I look forward to speaking with you about my qualifications for the investment banking position at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time. Best regards, Alex Morgan |
Curt and robotic. Yes, the sample above shows exactly what not to do when writing an investment baking cover letter. Such a generic closing won’t leave a memorable impression and encourage the recruiter to contact you.
Maybe you’re wondering if there are any hacks to make your investment banking cover letter even more powerful. Actually, there is, and it’s called a postscript. While adding a PS is not necessary, it’s a great way to earn those extra points and increase your chances of getting a job interview invitation.
There are two ways in which you can use a PS in your investment banking cover letter. A postscript can:
- Highlight an additional impressive achievement
- Add personal touch
Check out a sample postscript below:
Investment banking cover letter examples—postscript
P.S. I would love to share how my innovative approach to financial modelling led to a 20% increase in client acquisition at Titan Capital. Perhaps we could discuss this over a coffee at your convenience?
This is how you should write a good PS for a cover letter—it sparks the recruiter's interest and suggests a casual meeting, which makes the invitation feel less formal and more approachable.
One last thing: remember to end your letter with a standard complimentary close, followed by your full name.
Read more: How to End a Cover Letter? Closing Statement + Sign-Off Samples
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your CV will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing.
Key takeaway
Let’s sum up how to write an effective investment banking cover letter:
- Pay attention to formatting.
- Address the recruiter by name.
- Write an attention-grabbing opening.
- Present your achievements and motivation.
- Finish with a clear call to action.
- Use a professional closing.
- Consider adding a PS.
Thanks for reading my article on how to write a cover letter for investment banking jobs. If you’ve any questions, feel free to reach out in the comments section down below!
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