Six Steps to Write a Cover Letter in Applying for an Accountant Job

Faizah Imani reports:

"When seeking an accountant position with a company or firm, it is important to use every selling tool in the book to sell yourself to the employer. A professional resume is one of those selling tools, as it highlights your skills, qualifications and educational background. The cover letter is another tool you should use. The cover letter is a formal way of warming up and introducing yourself to the potential employer...Use standard business letter formatting for your cover letter. Include your name and mailing address in the upper left-hand corner of the letter. Include one line break followed by the date. Include another line break followed by the name and address of the potential employer. Call the employer in advance to get the hiring manager's name. Include a 'C/O' (care of) line after the company name...Include a professional salutation, including the hiring manager's name...Mention in the first paragraph that you are submitting the letter to express an interest in becoming an accountant with the company/firm. Provide one to two sentences on how you are qualified for the position...Mention your knowledge of auditing and compliance or accounting standards. Indicate whether or not you are a certified accountant. State why you believe you are the best candidate for the open position...State some of your accounting accomplishments in the second paragraph. You do not have to list every accomplishment. Refer the employer to your resume to see all of your accomplishments...Include four or five bullet points of how your accounting skills can benefit the potential employer. Format the bullet points in bold font to make them stand out from the rest of your letter. Before listing the bullet points, include a short statement such as 'As an accountant for your organization, I can provide:'...Create a closing paragraph. In the closing paragraph, express your desire to meet with the potential employer to further discuss your skills and qualifications. Include your telephone number and the best time to reach you. End the letter with a professional closing, such as 'Sincerely,' followed by your name and signature."