ENTRY-LEVEL COVER LETTER TEMPLATE - BUSINESS/FINANCE

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

[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

I was impressed by [Company Name]'s recent [financial performance/strategic initiative/market expansion], which I analyzed in detail for my senior capstone project at [Your University]. As a recent [Your Degree] graduate with [relevant certification if applicable - passed CFA Level 1, completed financial modeling course, etc.], I'm eager to apply for the [Specific Job Title] position.

During my internship at [Previous Company], I [specific responsibility] that directly impacted [business outcome]. When tasked with [challenge/project], I [analyzed/built/recommended] [what you did], which resulted in [quantifiable result - $X saved, X% efficiency gain, X hours reduced, etc.]. This experience developed my proficiency in [Excel/financial modeling/data analysis/relevant tool] and taught me how to [relevant skill] in a fast-paced environment.

My academic background includes concentrated coursework in [relevant areas - corporate finance, financial accounting, investments, etc.], graduating with a [GPA if 3.5+] GPA. Through case competitions and projects, I've gained hands-on experience with [financial modeling, valuation, market analysis, etc.]. In [specific competition/project], my team [achievement and outcome], which required [relevant skills from job description].

What attracts me to [Company Name] is your [specific business strategy/market position/growth trajectory]. Your recent [acquisition/expansion/product launch] demonstrates the kind of strategic thinking I want to be part of. I'm particularly interested in [specific aspect of their business] and how it positions you in [relevant market/industry].

With my analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in [Excel, SQL, Python, Bloomberg Terminal, or other relevant tools], I'm prepared to contribute immediately to [specific team/department]. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with your team's goals. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

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CUSTOMIZATION TIPS:
- Include specific financial tools/software you know (Excel, Bloomberg, SQL, Tableau, etc.)
- Reference their recent quarterly reports, investor presentations, or press releases
- Quantify everything possible (dollar amounts, percentages, time savings)
- Mention relevant certifications or licenses (CFA, Series 7, etc.)
- Research their business model and competitive position
- Keep total length to 350-400 words