Accounting being a high-level profession, applicants must sell themselves on their application to convince the hiring managers that they are overall a good fit for the job position. When applying for a job, sending a cover letter increases the chances of being selected by the hiring committee. Therefore, accountants send a cover letter as part of their application. The cover letter highlights the unique qualifications, skills, and personal traits that set the candidate apart from other applicants. With the help of this article, readers will be able to write a professional cover letter.
Free Sample Letters
If you want to craft a cover letter, the best way is to start with a pre-made template. Here is a collection of free templates you can use
Importance
A well-written cover letter markets the applicant by emphasizing their suitability for the position based on professional qualifications and personal qualities. This way, the applicant can reference the requirements given in the job description and persuade the hiring manager they are all-rounded and suitable for the position and the company. Additionally, this cover letter marks the beginning of a relationship with the potential employer. Unlike a resume, which lists qualifications, a cover letter should have a personal touch and mention accomplishments (professional and personal), current employment status, core values, etc.
Points to Remember
A compelling cover letter should have several features that ensure it stands out.
- It should focus on what you bring to the company and position and your most vital marketable soft skills.
- It should highlight how these qualities have been utilized previously to attain the mentioned benefits using metrics and statistics.
- The letter shouldn’t focus on educational qualifications too much or use technical language that only accountants would be familiar with.
Lastly, it would be best to avoid generic cover letters; write a customized one that befits the respective company for each accountant application.
How to Write the Cover Letter
When writing an accounting cover letter, you should highlight the best and most authentic version of yourself to outshine other candidates. This will typically involve discussing various things that make you suitable for the position.
Below is a step-by-step procedure of what to include when writing your cover letter for an accounting job application:
Header
The cover letter should take up a business format since it is a matter of official record. Therefore, it is an excellent way to introduce your professionalism through a cover letter. Also, it goes into your employee file if you get the position.
The cover letter should therefore have a header that outlines the following information:
- Date: The cover letter must be dated. Indicate when the letter was written as the first item. Ensure to show the day, month, and year.
- Your name and contact details: The next item is writing your name and contact information after skipping a line. This includes your official name, street address, city, state, and zip code.
- Recipient’s name and contact details: After your contact information, skip a line and address the letter to the appropriate staff member and company. If you know the recruiter or hiring manager’s name, address it to them. However, if you are not familiar with their name, you can use applicable terms such as “Hiring manager/officer” or “hiring committee.” Then indicate the company address, city, state, and zip code.
- The subject of the letter: A subject line should also be included. Ensure the subject communicates the letter’s purpose of seeking employment for an accountant job.
- Salutation: After the subject line, add a formal and respectful salutation. The salutation should include Mr/Mrs/Ms followed by their last name. Respective titles, such as Dr., can also be used.
Introduction
The next section of the cover letter is the introduction. The introduction must include the purpose of the letter, the position you are applying for, and where you heard about the job vacancy.
Body
The body of the letter should get into details about how the applicant is suited for the position.
This section should discuss the following details in one or two paragraphs.
Show your passion for the job
Start by declaring your passion for accounting and a brief background of how this passion developed and grew to become your career. Then, you can align your passion with multiple disciplines.
Detail your qualification in reverse chronological order
Next, mention your professional qualification in reverse chronological order, from the most recent to the oldest. Qualification can include master’s, bachelor’s degrees, or any finance, business, and economics certifications.
Highlight your relevant experience and achievements
Experience is a huge consideration for most recruiters. After discussing your qualifications, talk about any experience you have gained that has positively contributed to your professional development and other aspects of your life. Review the job description and note down the skills and experiences the recruiter is most likely to prioritize. Try to align your cover letter to the shortlisted qualifications.
Also, mention any significant achievements you’ve had in your career and personal life.
EXAMPLE
Accolades for outstanding work. Achievements can be backed with statistical data showing measurable benefits.
Highlight your accounting, analytical and soft skills
In the next paragraph, you should discuss the skills that make you the most suitable candidate. This includes hard and soft skills used in accounting. Align these skills to the job requirements.
EXAMPLE
Knowledge in Microsoft Office, accounting software, regulatory and legal laws, etc.
Accountants should be analytical and have skills such as statistics, data manipulation, report preparation, error checking, information presentation, and reconciliations. In addition, you must include interpersonal skills such as organizational skills, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, analytical skills, written and verbal communication skills, teamwork, etc.
Conclusion
The cover letter should have a comprehensive conclusion. An excellent conclusion will outline the following details:
- Thank them for reading your letter: Add a thank you statement that expresses your thankfulness to the hiring team reviewing your letter. An appreciation statement is a courtesy gesture, which indicates politeness and professionalism.
- Sign-off: Next, sign off the letter by providing a complimentary close such as “sincerely” or “sincerely yours.”
- Your signature: Lastly, sign the letter to authenticate the document.
The Cover Letter
Given below we have template and samples with all essential information you can include in your letter:
template
[Date]
[Your name]
[Street address]
[City, state, Zip code]
[Hiring officer’s name]
[Company Name]
[Street address]
[City, State, ZIP code]
[Subject line]
[Salutation]
I am [name], applying for the accountant position at [company name]. I viewed your job posting on your website on [date]. As shown on my resume, I’m a reliable accountant with [number of years] experience and a proven record. Therefore, after carefully reviewing your job description, I believe I’m the right person for the job.
I’ve always been [discuss your passion for accounting]. Accounting has granted me that opportunity and contributed to my personal growth. I have [qualification] in [field]. I also have [qualification], which I completed two years ago. I’ve worked for [previous or current employer], where I gained extensive practice in accounting. I was responsible for [list duties and responsibilities]. In my first year at [company name], I was able to [mention achievement(s)].
I am proficient with Microsoft Office for these purposes and have sufficient knowledge in [accounting program of choice]. In addition, my knowledge in regulatory and tax laws would be a positive addition to your company’s plan to expand in other states. I’ve excellent organizational skills, and I’m a critical thinker, analytical, and a good team player. I’m an excellent time-keeper and articulate communicator. My skill set and ability to interact with people from different backgrounds can hugely contribute to coordinating and streamlining finance-related matters in your company.
Thank you for reviewing my application. I do believe I’m an excellent fit for your company. Kindly do not hesitate to contact me for any queries. Also, I’m available for an interview if needed.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Sample Letters
sample 01
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the Accountant position at Sunbright Enterprises. With a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Clearwater University and four years of experience at HighPeak Accounting Services, I have honed my skills in financial analysis, tax preparation, and budget management.
At HighPeak, I managed a portfolio of small and medium-sized enterprises, helping them streamline their financial operations and maximize profits. I pride myself on my attention to detail and ability to communicate complex financial information in an easily understandable way.
I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise to Sunbright Enterprises and contribute to your team’s success. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
sample 02
To the Recruitment Team,
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to apply for the Accountant position at Global Tech Innovations. As a CPA with over five years of experience in the technology sector, I believe my background aligns well with the needs of your company.
During my tenure at TechFin Solutions, I played a key role in financial reporting and analysis, contributing to a 15% reduction in costs through strategic budgeting and forecasting. My strengths lie in my analytical skills and my proficiency in accounting software such as QuickBooks and SAP.
I am eager to bring my blend of technical expertise and industry knowledge to Global Tech Innovations and am confident in my ability to be a valuable asset to your finance team.
Best regards,
John Smith
sample 03
Dear Selection Committee,
I am excited to apply for the Accountant position at Emerald Group. With a Master’s in Accounting from Riverdale University and three years of experience in a public accounting firm, I have developed a strong foundation in financial accounting, auditing, and tax services.
At Jenkins & Associates, I was responsible for managing audits and preparing tax returns for a diverse clientele. My commitment to accuracy and deadline-driven approach has consistently resulted in high client satisfaction.
Joining Emerald Group would be a significant step in my career, and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your esteemed organization. Thank you for your consideration.
Warm regards,
Emily Johnson
Analysis
The sample cover letters provided serve as useful guides for someone seeking to write their own cover letter for an accountant position due to several key factors:
- Professional Tone and Clarity: The applicants have written the letters in a professional tone, essential for making a positive impression in a business setting. The language is clear and straightforward, making them accessible and easy to understand. This clarity is crucial in conveying qualifications and enthusiasm effectively.
- Relevant Qualifications and Experience: Each candidate highlights their relevant educational background and work experience, which is central to demonstrating their suitability for the accountant role. By mentioning specific degrees, previous job titles, and key responsibilities or achievements, they provide concrete examples of their qualifications.
- Suitability for the role: The writers emphasize their suitability for the role by mentioning specific skills and achievements, such as expertise in financial analysis, tax preparation, budget management, and the use of accounting software. This not only demonstrates their competence but also gives potential employers an idea of what the candidate could bring to the role.
- Conciseness and Structure: The letters are concise, each consisting of a brief introduction, body, and conclusion. This structure is effective in keeping the reader’s attention and organizing information logically. The introduction captures the purpose of the letter, the body details qualifications and experiences, and the conclusion reiterates interest in the position and thanks the reader.
- Polite and Positive Closing: The writers end the letters with a polite and positive closing, leaving a good impression. This is a key aspect of professional communication and can impact the reader’s overall perception of the candidate.
These elements collectively make these letters effective examples for someone looking to write a compelling and professional cover letter for an accountant position. They demonstrate how to effectively convey qualifications, show fit for a specific role, and maintain a professional tone throughout.
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Do’s and Don’ts
It would be best to write a cover letter that best reflects your personality, professional capability, and why you would be a positive addition to the company.
To ensure your cover letter achieves this, below are some points you should have at the back of your mind before and during writing the letter:
Do’s
The do’s of writing the cover letter include:
Use right format
In terms of formatting, consider using a business letter format. The letter should have a header, introductory paragraph, body, and conclusion. Also, write using a traditional font like Arial or Times New Roman with a 10.5-12 points font size and use 1 and 1 ½ inch margins. Additionally, keep the letter short and detailed – one page is enough with 250-350 words.
Check for mistakes
In terms of correctness, you should correct any grammar and spelling mistakes before handing the letter to the employer. Afterward, verify the name of the organization and recipient before submitting the letter. Lastly, ascertain that the letter is legible and organized.
Don’ts
Avoid the following things when writing a cover letter for an accountant position:
- It would be best not to rewrite your resume. Instead, borrow the essential and best bits and discuss how they make you suitable for the position while adding some personality.
- Even though the aim is to be genuine throughout the letter, you should avoid providing explanations for experience and skills gaps.
- You shouldn’t reuse a cover letter, even though sometimes it might feel like a lot of writing work is pending.
- You must avoid providing outdated and unprofessional contact information that should not be used.
- You must avoid using company-specific terminology. Instead, use language that is standard at an industry level.
Job Seeking Tips
Below are some job-seeking tips you can implement to simplify the often frustrating job search process:
- Develop a job-seeking plan that befits your current situation. For example, if you’re unemployed, aim to get a temporary job while job hunting. If you’re employed, set targets on how many jobs you want to apply for each day or week.
- Be proactive when job searching and go to fairs, conferences, or any other social settings where you can learn current openings.
- Consult fellow and more established accountants and learn what it takes to get in senior positions and what interviewers are looking for.
- Look for openings from different avenues. For example, consider online channels and traditional job ads in the newspapers.
Conclusion
An accountant’s cover letter is an opportunity for applicants to market themselves to the hiring manager or recruiter. The cover letter should summarize your strengths, describing how these strengths make you the right person for the position you are applying for. As a result, your cover letter will differ from other candidates. You should write the cover letter in a formal business format. It should reflect your professionalism to create a positive lasting impression on the recruiter. To ensure this is achieved, the cover letter templates are common.
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