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Sales and trading cover letter: example and tips.

When applying to any sales and trading role you’ll need to have always prepared two things: a resume and a cover letter. However, there’s no getting around the fact that the former is much more important than the latter.

Think about the interview process from your interviewer’s perspective: they’re not just interviewing you, but potentially up to ten different people over a day or two. And these interviews – whether a first round or a superday – are usually being conducted during market hours where they (obviously!) have other things on their mind.

So, your interviewer isn’t going to spend a lot of time thoughtfully combing through your resume and reading through your cover letter prior to interviews beginning; given how many interviews will be occurring, that would involve a lot of prep time.

As a result, here’s the process that most doing interviewers will follow: prior to the interview, they’ll do a quick scan of your resume, looking at where you’re attending college and what past experiences you’ve had, and then judge you primarily on how you perform during the interview.

If they’ve been given a copy of your cover letter, which isn’t always the case, then they may quickly scan it as well (in particular, if they think you have an interesting resume). But most will just casually glance at the cover letter (again, if it’s even been provided to them to begin with).  

So, the reality is that your cover letter isn’t going to be something that’s closely scrutinized at every step of the interview process. But that doesn’t mean that your cover letter isn’t important.

The reality is that all resumes – especially for summer analysts – will look quite similar from a formatting and content perspective. In other words, there isn’t much variability. However, there is a ton of variability when it comes to the cover letters received from applicants: some make them far too long, some have loads of grammatical mistakes, some are more akin to personal statements that you’d use for getting into college, etc.

Therefore, even though your cover letter won’t be read by everyone, having a cover letter that conforms to a proper format and touches on a few key points is impressive and is a way that you can standout from the crowd.

Because even though your cover letter won’t be read by everyone involved in the recruiting process, you can be sure that it’ll be read (perhaps very quickly) by at least a few people. There are always some interviewers who, if they’re impressed by an applicant or are on the fence about them, will take a look at their cover letter to see how it’s formatted, how well it’s written, and what topics are touched on.

In the end, there are only so many ways to try to stand out in the sales and trading interview process. So, even though a cover letter may not be nearly as important as your resume, or how you perform during the interview, it will be read by someone at some point and could help land you a role.

The good news is that your cover letter can follow a bit of a “template” format, where you can just swap out the names of banks, so you don’t need to spend countless hours crafting a unique cover letter for every place you’re applying to.

Personally, I’ve always been impressed by cover letters that are properly formatted and hit some key points, even if they’re a bit generic, because it shows you “get” how cover letters are supposed to look. And, as I’ve discussed many times before, when applying to sales and trading one of the best ways to stand out is just to show you “get” what is involved (i.e., that you understand what market making is, that you understand the structure of desks and what desks are out there, etc.).

Sales and Trading Cover Letter

Below is a breakdown of how to structure and write your sales and trading cover letter. Included is also a template to show you what a submitted version should look like (although you’ll obviously need to make some personalized modifications to it).

Sales and Trading Cover Letter Format

Sales and trading cover letter example, sales and trading cover letter tips.

As I mentioned in the preamble, there’s an incredible amount of variability when it comes to the cover letters that are received; with some being far too long, some being far too personal, and some showing a lack of understanding (unintentionally) of what sales and trading is all about.

So, here are some formatting rules that your cover letter should follow. Needless to say, you don’t have to use all of these – but they’ll create a cover letter that stands out for being nicely formatted and, more importantly, doesn’t standout due to being abnormally formatted!

  • Your cover letter should, under no circumstances, be over a page. In fact, it should be short enough that there’s significant white space on the page. Having a short cover letter makes it more likely it’ll be read and just looks more conventional.
  • Your cover letter should be centered on the page with 11- or 12-point font – use whatever font you used for your resume, traditionally most will use something like Arial.
  • Your cover letter should be three-to-six paragraphs and no paragraph should be more overly long (you don’t want there to be a wall of text anywhere). Don’t worry about indenting paragraphs.
  • Your address should be in the top right-hand corner (several spaces down from the top).
  • The date you’re submitting the cover letter should be three or four spaces below the address (right-aligned).
  • You should use “To Whom it May Concern:” as the greeting, left-aligned.
  • All paragraphs in the body should be full-width justified.

When it comes to the actual content of the cover letter, here’s the general approach that I’d follow:

  • The first paragraph should cover who you are, what you’re studying, and any quasi-relevant experience you have (i.e., a prior internship related to finance).
  • The middle paragraphs should state why you’re interested in sales and trading, which always works best if you can tie it back to past experiences (i.e., internships, clubs on campus, etc.). Then you should provide a bit of detail on the areas of sales and trading that are of most interest and why you’re specifically applying to this bank (i.e., because it has a rotational program, because of your past conversations with current employees, etc.).
  • The closing paragraph should thank the reader for their time, and below that you should state your full name (followed below by your college e-mail address and your phone number).

In the end, you want to keep your cover letter simple and well formatted. You don’t want to be overly verbose, and you don’t want to say anything too specific about your exact interests in a certain desk if you’re applying to a summer analyst position.

For example, you don’t want to say you’re really interested in the equity derivatives desk, as that can seem a bit presumptuous, especially if the person who’s reading your cover letter is on a rates or credit desk. The obvious exception here is if you’re applying specifically for a certain desk, in which case you should make your interest in the desk clear and explain why.

Below is the text for a pretty good (albeit slightly generic) sales and trading cover letter. Your aim should be to craft a cover letter that can be reasonably quickly edited, as you’ll be applying to a number of different banks.

Needless to say, the text of the cover letter below isn’t perfectly formatted according to the rules I’ve listed above! So, to see the cover letter properly formatted in PDF format, just click here: sales and trading cover letter .

Here’s the cover letter content:

To Whom It May Concern:

I am currently a rising sophomore at Harvard College pursuing a concentration in economics and last summer completed an asset management internship at [X].

During my time at [X] I became increasingly interested in markets and, more specifically, the role that sales and trading professionals play in them. As a result, given how opaque the world of sales and trading is, I began networking as broadly as possible in an attempt to better understand the nature of the roles that exist and the attributes of various desks.

As you can imagine, these conversations have given me an appreciation for just how diverse a mix of roles and desks exist within the sales and trading universe. Indeed, this is partly why I’m so excited to be applying for a summer analyst position in sales and trading – especially at a firm as storied as [Y].

While I can’t confess to knowing exactly what desk is right for me yet, my work last summer did lead to an initial interest in [Z] – and I know [Y] is a leader in [Z] trading among, obviously, many other areas.

From all of those I’ve talked to, [Y] has a phenomenal summer analyst program that, due to it being rotational, provides a summer analyst broad exposure so they can figure out where exactly they best fit and can best contribute to the firm. The latter being something that I’d hope to do for many years to come.

Thank you very much for your consideration. Should there be any further questions, please let me know.

First and Last Name

In the above template, you’ll obviously have to change a few things around to make it fit your background (i.e., change the college and major, change around the past internship, etc.). But once you’ve crafted your own cover letter in this vein then you just need to swap out the name of the bank you’re applying to, and also change the second to last sentence based on if it’s a rotational or a fixed-placement program (if it’s fixed-placement, then just say that it will allow you to get a deeper understanding of a desk as opposed to only getting brief exposure as occurs in a rotational program).

Note: What you should be putting in [Z] is a broad asset type, not a specific desk. So, for example, you could say you’ve developed a general interest in rates or credit. But you shouldn’t say you’ve developed a specific interest in equity derivatives or interest rate swaps (as that’s a bit too specific and could be viewed as some as a bit presumptuous given your lack of experience).  

Whenever you’re applying to a hyper-competitive role, you want to take every opportunity to standout that you possibly can. The reality is – at least for sales and trading - the best way to standout with your cover letter is to keep it short, well-formatted, and hit on a few key themes (i.e., that you’ve talked to people in the industry, that you know the program is rotational or not, etc.).

You don’t want to be too over-the-top in what you’re saying, and you also don’t want to be too specific with what desk you want to end up on (unless you’re applying for a specific desk). Instead, you want to keep everything very professional, well-worded, and show that you’ve developed a reasonably good understanding of what sales and trading involves (i.e., by saying you’ve tried to better understand the role of those in sales and trading, aren’t sure exactly what desk is right for you, etc.).

In the end, it’s not a given that too many will read your cover letter. But even if they just briefly glance at it, as they flip over to your resume, if it’s well formatted (i.e., followed the rules I mentioned above) that leaves a subtly positive impression. And, when it comes to applying to hyper-competitive roles, those subtly positive impressions can make all the difference.

While it’s a safe assumption that the vast majority of your interviewers are not going to have read your cover letter, it’s an equally safe assumption that at least a few people involved in the process will have glanced at it.

Therefore, it’s worth putting time into creating a personalized template – following the general rules and format I’ve gone through in this post – that you can then quickly change around for each bank you’re applying to.

In the end, it shouldn’t take you more than an afternoon to create your own cover letter and then personalize it for each bank that you’re applying to. Just make sure, prior to submitting your cover letter, that you double check you’ve put in the right bank name! You’d be surprised how many cover letters at Goldman express the candidate’s interest in working at JPM!

If you’re currently gearing up for interviews, beyond getting your cover letter and resume in order, be sure to go through the sales and trading primer and review all the sales and trading interview questions I’ve put together here as well.

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Sales Cover Letter Tips, Templates, & Examples to Land Your Ideal Role

Aja Frost

Published: April 20, 2022

A strong sales cover letter can do a lot for you as an applicant — like demonstrate effective communication skills, show you're invested in the opportunity, and give you room to add some color to your application.

cover letter for sales and trading

That said, stringing cover letters together is often one of the more grating, monotonous tasks job seekers have to put up with — but while putting a sound sales cover letter together can be a chore , it doesn't necessarily have to be a challenge . There are some key tips, strategies, and structures you can fold into your letters to make them as compelling as possible.

Let's take a look at some of those tricks, review how to arrange your sales cover letter, and see an example of what a solid one looks like in practice.

→ Click here to access 5 free cover letter templates [Free Download]

Sales Cover Letter Tips

Keep it concise..

You should aim to keep your cover letter between three to five paragraphs, and under no circumstances should it be more than one page. Employers fielding a high volume of applications could be leafing through hundreds of cover letters every day. If you're too long-winded — stringing together a multi-page history of your entire professional life — you're going to get overlooked.

Use a professional font.

A cover letter is a professional document, so it warrants a professional presentation. Don't get too cute with your font selection or colors. Go with something like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri — and always have the text be black.

Avoid flowery language without sacrificing flow.

You're not writing an English essay or preparing for a poetry slam here. Again, you want to keep things professional. Avoid flowery phrases like, " At your leisure " or " Please find attached herewith. ” That said, you want your letter to flow and sound natural, so try not to come off too stiff.

Highlight relevant skills.

Pore over the listing for the role you're applying for. What is the company in question looking for? What specific skills and qualities do they call out in the job description? Once you have those questions squared away, try to find ways to include those elements in your cover letter.

Reference quantifiable achievements.

In most cases, employers won't look at the skills you highlight and just take you at your word — you need to point to hard, quantifiable results that demonstrate you're the real deal.

How to Write a Sales Cover Letter

If you’re applying to a conservative company or work in a formal industry — like finance, healthcare, or law — include a full heading: Your name and address, followed by a space, the date, followed by another space, and the company name and address.

But if you’re applying to a less formal place, you can probably get away with simply writing your name and email address — followed by a space and the company's name and email address.

Maybe you’re not sure who will be reading your cover letter — but don’t write " To whom it may concern, " " Dear hiring manager, " or any other generic title. With a little research, you can usually find the hiring manager’s name.

Let’s say you’re applying for the SMB Account Executive role at Joyfull. Google "SMB sales manager Joyfull" and see if you can find the team’s leader on LinkedIn. When applying to a conservative company, write “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last name].” When applying to a startup or relatively relaxed organization, write “Dear [First name] [Last name].”

Your intro paragraph should highlight why you’re a great fit. It’s a high-level overview, rather than an in-depth exploration of your work history and qualifications, so keep it under four sentences.

The standard cover letter opening line is something along the lines of:

"I’m interested in becoming a sales representative on your SMB team " or " I'm excited for the opportunity to apply for the SMB sales representative role. "

While these sentences might not kill your chances of getting the job, they generally don’t help. You want to grab the reader’s attention and sell yourself from the very start — so don't be reluctant to try a personalized, compelling line that will draw the hiring manager in and make them want to read more.

Here are a few examples:

" I love working with small businesses — in fact, I’ve helped more than 300 in the past year at my current job — which is why I’m so excited about the chance to help SMBs discover Joyfull. "

" Every week, I write a blog post about a common SMB challenge. Helping SMBs overcome this obstacle isn’t just rewarding -- it’s also a great lead gen strategy. My passion for this type of work led me to your SMB Account Executive position. "

Do you know a current or former employee who speaks positively about the company? Mention them in your intro. In some cases, you might have their referral — either by submitting your application or connecting you with the hiring manager — but even if you don't, you can still drop their name.

For instance, you might say something like, "As a self-starter who thrives in autonomous, results-oriented environments, I’m drawn to the BDR role at Red Shelf. I’ve heard great things about the culture and learning opportunities from Sarah Grossman, who started as a BDR and now works on your L&D team."

First Body Paragraph

In this paragraph, choose a relevant work experience. What does "relevant" mean? You’re trying to show your existing abilities and knowledge map well to the role you’re applying for, so if you currently work in retail and you want to become a business development rep, you might write:

" As a floor associate for Wilson & Co., I help 60-plus customers every day with questions about brands, fit, quality, and more. This experience has taught me how to provide a positive customer experience and be helpful while driving sales — both skills I’d use as a HubSpot BDR. Finally, it’s made me comfortable approaching strangers and acting as a product expert, which would be invaluable when reaching out to inbound leads. "

Second Body Paragraph

The second body paragraph follows the same structure as the first. Take another relevant work or educational experience, and connect the dots to the role you’re applying for. Imagine you’re currently an AE applying for a manager position. Your second section could read:

“ In the past 16 months on the Pacific West team, I’ve taken several opportunities to grow my leadership abilities. I started a mentorship program for new reps, pairing them with salespeople who have been at the company for at least two years. This program has been a huge success — the half-year retention is 20% higher for participants versus those without mentors. As a sales manager, I’d continue to look for ways to support, mentor, and train my salespeople so they can maximize their potential. "

Third Body Paragraph

If you have another relevant experience, discuss it here. But you don’t have to add a third paragraph just for the sake of adding one — a lot of the time, a shorter cover letter is better, provided you can convey an appropriate amount of relevant information.

Let’s suppose you’re applying for a sales engineer role — a highly technical and demanding job that likely warrants a three-paragraph cover letter. You could say something like:

"After spending two years in customer support, I’m in my element when answering product-related questions. There’s nothing I enjoy more than getting a challenging ticket I can dig into — and there’s nothing more satisfying than finally solving it. As a sales engineer for HubSpot, I’d get the chance to talk to customers about the product on a daily basis and answer their most complex questions. In addition, I could use the communication skills I’ve honed as a support rep."

This section doesn’t need to be long or flowery. Many people end with unnecessary statements like, "Please let me know if I can provide any more information” or "Thank you for your consideration."

The problem with these? A hiring manager can safely assume you’ll give more info if asked and are appreciative of their time. You’ll seem like every other applicant who’s grabbed a generic template from the internet — which, okay, you might be doing, but they don’t need to know that.

Instead, reiterate your interest with a strong summary line like:

“The best days at work are usually the longest and most demanding — because I go home knowing I’ve helped multiple owners dramatically change the course of their businesses. Your hyper-loyal user base suggests being a Joyfull AE comes with even more opportunities to help young and growing organizations.”

Sales Cover Letter Template

Dear Jane Doe,

I’m passionate about [helping X type of customer, solving Y goal, working in Z industry] — which is how I found the [open position] at [company name]. The more I learned about [company’s] mission to [insert mission here, i.e. “improve the remote working experience,” “make personal finance easy”], the more excited I became. My [applicable skill #1 and applicable skill #2], as well as experience in [field] and knowledge of [related topic], would make me an asset to the [department, i.e. “Customer Development”] team.

As a [title] at [current employer or skill], I’m responsible for [doing X and Y]. This has helped me develop [ability] -- in fact, [insert proof of your skill, e.g. “my boss recently said I was one of the most resourceful employees he’s ever had” or “I’m known for my ability to stay collected and take the lead during high-pressure situations.”] I’d use [X skill] as your [job title] to [achieve main objective].

I’m also [skilled in X/possess Y and Z positive traits], which comes from my [previous work or extracurricular experience]. [In that role, on that team], I developed a knack for [skill/traits]. This was instrumental in [hitting specific milestones/exceeding expectations]. You’re looking for someone with [X skill/character traits], and I believe I’m a good fit.

Over the past [number of years], [company] has [accomplished X goal, such as “become a leader in the CRM space” or “used creative marketing and social media campaigns to become a household name in Colorado.”] It looks like you have ambitious goals for the future -- I hope I get the opportunity to contribute.

[Your name]

Sales Cover Letter Example

an effective sales cover letter example

Why It Works

This cover letter is effective for a few reasons. For one, it speaks directly to how the applicant's hard, quantifiable achievements align with both the role's required technical acumen and the more abstract qualities needed to thrive in it.

By alluding to the fact that they're familiar with the vertical the role serves, the applicant establishes the relevance of their experience — and by touching on elements like their experience with mentorship, they're demonstrating their growth potential within the role.

If you're in the middle of a job hunt, odds are you're going to write your fair share of cover letters — so knowing how to put a compelling one together is in your best interest. It might be the difference between ultimately landing a sales role and not even popping up on an employer's radar.

Professional Cover Letter Templates

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Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

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Sales Trader Cover Letter Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

Create a standout sales trader cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Sales Trader Cover Letter Example

Are you looking to join the world of sales trading? Or maybe you already have some experience in the industry and want to take your career to the next level? This Sales Trader Cover Letter Guide is the perfect resource to help you land the job of your dreams. Get all the tips and tricks you need to craft your cover letter and wow your future employer.

We will cover:

  • How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
  • What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
  • The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
  • How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
  • What a cover letter template is, and why you should use it.

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Sales Trader Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Team,

I am writing to apply for the Sales Trader position currently available with your company. As a highly organized and motivated professional with five years of experience in financial trading, I am confident that I am the ideal candidate for this role.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated an exemplary ability to effectively manage a variety of financial trades. I have a comprehensive understanding of the financial markets and the ability to quickly and accurately assess risk levels. In my most recent role, I was responsible for developing and executing a wide range of trades, including stocks, derivatives, options, futures, and currencies. I was also responsible for providing market analysis and in-depth research and development for clients.

In addition, I have strong communication skills and the ability to work with a variety of people from different backgrounds. I have developed strong relationships with clients and understand the importance of providing exceptional customer service.

I am passionate about the financial markets and thrive in fast-paced environments. I am also eager to learn and am constantly looking for new ways to improve my skills and knowledge. I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team and look forward to discussing this opportunity with you further.

Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Sales Trader Cover Letter?

A Sales Trader cover letter is an essential part of the job search process, as it gives employers a glimpse of your work experience and serves as an introduction to your professional background. Writing a tailored and effective Sales Trader cover letter can be the difference between being considered for a job opportunity or being passed over.

  • To demonstrate your knowledge of the company and industry.
  • To provide a summary of your sales experience and expertise.
  • To illustrate your communication skills.
  • To highlight your accomplishments and successes.
  • To showcase your eagerness to join the team.
  • To express your enthusiasm for the role.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

  • Keep your cover letter to one page. Aim to use concise language that reflects your qualifications for the role.
  • Start with a strong introduction that provides a concise overview of your qualifications and experience. This should be followed by a few points that demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the role.
  • Highlight your skills and expertise that are relevant to the Sales Trader role.
  • Focus on the skills and experiences that demonstrate your ability to succeed in the Sales Trader role. Highlight any successes you have had in previous roles that are applicable to the new role.
  • Include any relevant qualifications or certifications that demonstrate your ability to succeed in the role.
  • Provide examples of how you have used your skills and expertise to succeed in the past.
  • Close your cover letter by thanking the recipient for their time and expressing your enthusiasm for the role.
  • Proofread your cover letter to ensure that it is free of typos and grammatical errors.

What's The Best Structure For Sales Trader Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Sales Trader resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Sales Trader cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Sales Trader Cover Letters:

  • Your contact information, including the date of writing
  • The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
  • A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
  • An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
  • A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
  • Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
  • A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
  • A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
  • An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

  • Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
  • Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
  • Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

  • Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
  • Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
  • Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

  • Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
  • Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
  • Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
  • Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
  • Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

As an experienced Sales Trader, I have a strong background in providing exceptional customer service, executing trades, and developing relationships with clients. My knowledge of the financial markets and trading strategies, combined with my commitment to client satisfaction, makes me an ideal candidate for your Sales Trader position.

At my current firm, I am responsible for managing client portfolios, executing trades, and providing market updates to ensure that their clients are informed of the latest events. I have developed an extensive network of contacts in the industry and have a proven track record of successfully managing client portfolios. I have also been recognized for my ability to quickly understand and respond to changing market conditions.

In addition to my experience in the financial markets, I have strong customer service and communication skills. I am able to easily build relationships with clients, answer their questions, and provide them with the best possible advice to meet their individual needs. I am also comfortable with technology and have experience using different trading platforms.

I am confident that my experience, knowledge, and dedication to customer service make me an ideal candidate for the Sales Trader position. I am eager to meet with you in person to discuss the role and my qualifications in more detail.

  • Key Skills & Qualifications
  • Extensive experience in the financial markets
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to quickly understand and respond to changing market conditions
  • Proficient in using different trading platforms
  • Knowledge of trading strategies and portfolio management
  • Dedicated to providing excellent customer service

I am excited for the opportunity to put my skills to work in your organization. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

  • Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
  • Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
  • Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
  • Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
  • Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
  • Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Sales Trader Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

  • Not proofreading your cover letter for errors
  • Being overly generic and not tailoring your cover letter to the specific position
  • Including irrelevant information or information that is not relevant to the position
  • Using a cookie-cutter approach to your cover letter
  • Using too many cliches or overly-familiar phrases
  • Neglecting to include your contact information
  • Failing to mention specific qualifications that make you a great fit for the job
  • Not addressing the cover letter to a specific person
  • Not including a call to action in your cover letter
  • Using a generic salutation (e.g. “To Whom it May Concern”)

Key Takeaways For a Sales Trader Cover Letter

  • Highlight your experience in sales, trading, and market analysis.
  • Demonstrate your knowledge of financial markets and products.
  • Showcase your ability to interpret and analyze data.
  • Emphasize your strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Describe your ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with clients.
  • Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with teams.
  • Describe your capacity to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Create Cover Letter

Sales Cover Letter Example for 2024 (w/ Templates!)

Background Image

You've always had a knack for sales, but now you’ve come a long way from making cold calls and practicing your pitch in front of the mirror. 

You’re ready to turn your talent into a full-time gig.

There's just one hurdle left: writing that dreaded cover letter. Staring at the empty page that's supposed to sell your skills and experience feels a lot like standing in front of a tough client you just can't land.

But don't worry!

In this article, we're going to show you how to sell your professional skills, one sentence at a time.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

  • What Makes a Great Sales Cover Letter Example
  • 5 Steps to Writing the Best Sales Cover Letter
  • 3 Essential Cover Letter Tips for Sales Pros

...and more!

So let's close the deal.

Sales Cover Letter Example

Sales Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Sales Cover Letter

You’ve seen what a great sales cover letter looks like. Now it's time to start writing your own . 

Simply follow these tried-and-tested steps:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Kick off your sales cover letter with your personal information right at the top, similar to your resume . Here's the lowdown on what to include:

  • Full Name. Your whole name should sit at the top of the document.
  • Job Title. Be specific about the sales role you're targeting (e.g. Sales Manager ). This helps the hiring manager sort through heaps of applications more efficiently.
  • Email Address. Keep it simple and professional. Your old, quirky email won't cut it. For instance, [email protected] is a no-no, but [email protected] is good to go.
  • Phone Number. Make sure it’s correct, and if you're aiming for a job in another country, add the international dialing code.
  • Location. Usually, your city and country are enough. But if you're open to remote work or moving, say so.
  • Relevant Links (optional). If you have a LinkedIn profile or a portfolio, this is a good spot to include those links.

Next up, list the hiring manager's details:

  • Company Name. Put down the company you're looking to join.
  • Hiring Manager’s Name. If you can find it, include the name of the hiring manager for the sales department. The company’s website and LinkedIn are good places to look.
  • Hiring Manager’s Title. If you learn the hiring manager's official title, use that instead of just "Hiring Manager." For example, the person reviewing your application might be the “Head of Sales”.
  • Location. Note the city and country, especially if the company is global. You can get more detailed with the street name and number if you want.
  • Email Address (optional). If you manage to find it, throw in the hiring manager’s email as well.
  • Date (optional). Include the date you’re writing the cover letter. It adds a touch of professionalism.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've laid down your contact information , it's time to address your cover letter to its intended reader. Skip the old ‘To Whom It May Concern’ —it's a snooze-fest.

First up, do a little digging. Look at the job ad, the company's website, or their LinkedIn page to find the name of the hiring manager for the sales role you're applying for. This way, you'll get their name and possibly their email too.

When it comes to addressing the hiring manager , it's good to be formal but not stuffy. Go for "Mr." or "Ms." followed by their last name. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, just use their full name. Like so:

  • Dear Mr. Johnson,  
  • Dear Emily Johnson,

If you hit a wall and can't find any details about who the hiring manager or the head of the sales department is, aim your letter at the department or the entire company:

  • Dear Sales Department,
  • Dear Sales Hiring Team,
  • Dear HR Recruitment Team,
  • Dear Sales Division Lead,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers usually only take a few seconds to scan each application. That means your opening paragraph needs to be as attention-grabbing as possible.

A good approach is to lead by stating why you're drawn to the sales job. A little enthusiasm for the field or that specific role can go a long way in catching a manager's eye.

Knowing a bit about the company can also set you apart from the crowd. The more clued in you are, the easier it is to show why you'd fit in well with their team. This signals that you're not just applying at random but are genuinely keen on this particular job.

If you've already got some experience under your belt, feel free to open with a big win or key skills that make you ideal for the role. 

That said, keep this part snappy. The aim is to hook the hiring manager into reading more about you, not going into depth about how you made your achievements happen.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The main section of your sales cover letter is where you should get down to business and elaborate on who you are as a candidate. 

Remember - this isn't a place to copy-paste your resume . Instead, aim to showcase why you're the ideal candidate for the sales role you're eyeing by providing additional information.

So, to begin with, avoid repetition. Don't regurgitate your resume; add color to it. Discuss the achievements that prove you're good at closing deals or retaining clients. Look at the job ad and let it guide you. If they're seeking someone who can work in a fast-paced environment, highlight a time you thrived under pressure.

Also, be specific. If the job focuses on B2B sales, point out how you've succeeded in that area rather than discussing your retail experience. This tells the hiring manager that you understand what they're looking for and can deliver on it.

And, as we already mentioned, knowledge of the company is a big bonus. If you understand their sales approach, competitors, or target markets, say so. It shows you're serious about the job and have done your homework.

Need more inspiration? Check out more cover letter examples in this article. 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Ending your sales cover letter on a high note is crucial. This is your last chance to make a lasting impression , so don't drop the ball here.

Start by summarizing why you're the right pick for the sales role. Reiterate your key skills or most noteworthy achievement(s). You've made your case; now wrap it up in a neat package.

Finally, add a call to action. Prompt the hiring manager to do something next, like contacting you for a further discussion. This proactive step can set you apart and enhance your odds of landing an interview.

Lastly, sign off the right way. Keep it professional yet personal. Here's an example of what this could look like:

I’m eager to discuss how I can contribute to your sales targets and team goals. Please feel free to reach out so we can set up an interview at your convenience.

Best regards,

If "Best regards" feels too played out for you, here are other sign-offs you can consider:

  • Kind regards,
  • Respectfully,
  • Thanks for your time,

This last section is your final shot to resonate with the hiring manager. Make it count.

sales cover letter structure

3 Essential Business Cover Letter Tips

You're now up to speed on the basics of cover letters. 

Next up, we'll dive into some must-know tips to take your sales cover letter to the next level, starting with: 

#1. Match Your Resume

Going for that sales position? Then having a sharp application matters.

For that exact reason, get your cover letter to match your resume in style and formatting. A mismatch might come off as unprofessional. 

Keep your information straight and clean on the page, and ensure your fonts are on point from top to bottom. Oh, and while you're at it, get those margins and line gaps just right. Let's keep that cover letter snappy and on one page. 

Pitch yourself perfectly!

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Want to skip all the hassle? 

Our cover letter templates are just the ticket. Use our resume builder while you’re at it, and then match your cover letter to the T. 

Not to mention, with input from global hiring experts, all our templates are top-notch and industry-approved.

Problem solved!

sales cover letter examples

#2. Mention Qualifications

You can't skip talking about your qualifications in your cover letter, especially for a sales job. 

Qualifications aren't just a checklist for hiring managers; they're the building blocks that show you can do the job well. So, dig a little deeper than your resume. 

Sure, your resume says you led your team in sales for three quarters. But in your cover letter, you can say how you did it. Did you initiate a new customer engagement strategy? Or maybe you excelled at cold calls? Make sure to explain it. 

By expanding on your qualifications, you're giving the hiring manager a sneak peek into how you operate and what you could bring to their team. Trust me, they'll appreciate the extra insight, and it might just land you that interview .

#3. Add Any Relevant Links

As an extension of your sales resume , your cover letter is a great place to add any relevant links. 

Sure, your resume might have a section for your LinkedIn or portfolio, but why not make it easy for the hiring manager? 

Direct them straight to the good stuff. Add a line in your cover letter that says something like, "You can see examples of my sales achievements on my LinkedIn profile," and then hyperlink it.

Doing this sends a clear message: you're not just talking about your skills and achievements; you're showing them off in real time. It saves the hiring manager time searching for them and gives them an easy way to learn more about you right away. It's a small detail, but it could make you stand out in a crowded field.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap on what makes a great sales cover letter!

We hope that our guide has made you more confident about writing your own sales cover letter and that you’ll land your dream job right away.

But before we go, let’s recap our most important points from this article:

  • Start your sales cover letter by including all your relevant contact information and then fill out the hiring manager’s contact information. Keep this factual, especially your email and phone number. Otherwise, you might miss an interview opportunity.
  • Add hyperlinks to your cover letter for convenience. Even if your sales resume already links to your LinkedIn profile or a sales portfolio, you should add them to your cover letter and make it easier for the hiring manager to see them.
  • The body of your cover letter is where you should go into detail about what makes you right for the job. Make sure you don’t skip your qualifications—they can make you stand out from other candidates and help convince the hiring manager you’re right for the job.
  • Before you send in your cover letter, sign it off professionally. Pick an appropriate closing line and add your full name underneath before sending in your application.

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How to Write a Finance Cover Letter

Not all jobs need them, but for those that do, here are some guidelines from morgan stanley’s recruiters on how to write one..

Searching the internet for tips on how to write a cover letter will produce a litany of dos and don’ts: Flex your communication skills, but don’t go over three paragraphs; don’t recite a generic list of skills, but do speak to every requirement in the job description; be professional, but also be personal…the list goes on.

Truth be told, not all jobs need cover letters, but for the times when they’re required, it needn’t be so complicated to get them right.   Our recruiters say that applicants can hit the mark as long as they follow a few basic rules,  and refrain from quoting Shakespeare or likening their job search to Fantine’s demise in Les Miserable. (It happens). 

1. Why You Need One

They provide a missing link between the living-you and the formulaic resume or CV. Your cover letter conveys three important things:

  • You understand what the firm is looking for.
  • You’ve got the skills.
  • You’re articulate.

2. What to Include

Write it like a letter—include your address, Dear Sir/Madam (or better still, the name of the person, if you know who the interviewer is), and make sure to end it with a closing (“Yours faithfully,” etc).

  • First Paragraph: An opening statement that sets out why you’re writing the letter. Begin by stating the position you’re applying for and if you became aware of it by going to a recruiting event.
  • Middle Paragraphs: Two or three paragraphs to explain what attracted you to the type of work, why you’re interested in working for the company, and why you think you’d be a good fit.
  • Last paragraph: Thank the employer and say you’re looking forward to receiving a response.

Wanted: Non-Finance Graduates

5 business communication skills for your career, don’t let these common interview questions trip you up, 3. beware the generic cover letter.

Cover letters  can end up being deal-breakers if  they have mistakes in them, and most mistakes are made when a generic letter is used for every application. You’d be surprised by how many times people forget to switch out the name of one firm for ours. Not only do we know you’re applying elsewhere, but it shows lack of attention to detail.

4. Strike an Authentic Tone

Another reason not to use a generic cover letter: It just doesn’t sound authentic. Writing it from scratch will create  a warmer, more engaging tone—even if it’s just a few paragraphs.

5. No Need to Repeat

Don’t use the cover letter to repeat skills that you’ve already outlined in the resume, which speak specifically to the requirements in the job description. 

6. Make the Most of Your Experiences

Do include  experiences or skills that might not be specifically called for in the job description, but you believe will add to your appeal and help you excel in the role.  Examples could be collaborative, leadership or problem-solving skills from extracurricular activities or previous jobs. Just ensure that they’re truly relevant and compelling, and not a stretch. 

7. Get a Second Opinion

Whatever you end up putting in your cover letter, make sure to check for mistakes. Get someone to proofread your letter for typos, grammatical errors, the wrong firm name, and any Broadway Musical references that might have made their way in.

Good luck! And feel free to reach out to our campus recruiting team members if you have any questions. 

Get Your Career Started At Morgan Stanley

cover letter for sales and trading

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How do you know if you're being overly eager? Should summer analysts speak up at meetings? Here are some answers.

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Sales Trader Cover Letter Examples

A great sales trader cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following sales trader cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write your own letter.

Sales Trader Cover Letter Example

or download as PDF

Cover Letter Example (Text)

(147) 674-5412

[email protected]

Dear Jonell Boase,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Sales Trader position at Goldman Sachs, as advertised. With a solid foundation in financial markets and a proven track record of success at J.P. Morgan, I am eager to bring my expertise and enthusiasm to your esteemed team. Over the course of five years in the industry, I have honed my skills in developing client relationships, executing trades with precision, and navigating complex market dynamics, all of which I am confident will contribute positively to the goals and aspirations of Goldman Sachs.

At J.P. Morgan, I was privileged to work in a fast-paced environment where the ability to make quick, informed decisions was paramount to success. My role required a deep understanding of market trends, risk management, and the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse client base. I have consistently exceeded sales targets and fostered long-term relationships with clients by providing them with tailored investment strategies and exceptional service, demonstrating my commitment to not only meeting but surpassing expectations.

I believe that my proactive approach to identifying new business opportunities, along with my dedication to continuous learning and professional growth, aligns perfectly with the innovative and client-centric culture at Goldman Sachs. I am particularly impressed by your company's commitment to integrity and excellence, and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your team's success.

I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing how my experience, skills, and ambitions can be in sync with the strategic objectives of Goldman Sachs. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how I can be a valuable asset to your team.

Warm regards,

Related Cover Letter Examples

  • Assistant Trader
  • Commodity Trader
  • Equity Trader
  • Sales Account Executive
  • Sales Account Manager

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Equity Sales Trader Cover Letter Sample

Increase your chances of scoring a job & find ideas for your own cover letter with this modifiable Equity Sales Trader cover letter sample. Copy and paste this cover letter example at no cost or alter it with ease in our easy-to-use cover letter builder.

Milan Šaržík — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

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Equity Sales Trader Cover Letter Sample (Full Text Version)

Eric Nielsen

Dear Recruiters,

When reviewing your posting for the Equity Sales Trader job within FWQ Financial, Ltd. in New York City, NY on LinkedIn.com, I was pleased to discover that your requirements and needs align perfectly with my qualifications. Therefore, I believe that I am a perfect candidate for the role and I am also confident that I could be a valuable addition to your team and company.

To briefly introduce myself, I am a Certified Equity Professional offering a strong attention to detail and accuracy and a proven track record of achieving extraordinary financial results. At Maven Securities, Ltd., where I worked for more than 5 years, I was recognized for my exceptional analytical skills and the important ability to operate under pressure. Besides developing and implementing short/long term trading strategies and managing multiple client accounts, I am also skilled in identifying and evaluating potential investment opportunities, supervising other employees, and communicating with clients to ensure that their goals are met. For exceeding all assigned targets, I have won the Trader of the Year Award twice which was a great satisfaction for all the hard work and effort which I have always put in.

Next, I am a holder of a master's degree in Finance and Capital Markets from the University of Michigan where I was among the top 2% of students with the best academic results (4.0 GPA). Moreover, I served as a President of the FinTech Society for one year and this tremendous experience has allowed me to become an effective leader and team player. I am adept at using all software programs necessary for the position at an expert level and I am certain that my qualities make me a perfect fit for your organization. I have attached my up-to-date CV for your review so please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. I can be reached at 555-555-5555 or via email at [email protected].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Kind regards,

Milan Šaržík — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

Edit this sample using our resume builder.

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Trading Analyst Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Trading Analyst cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

cover letter for sales and trading

Table Of Contents

  • Trading Analyst Example 1
  • Trading Analyst Example 2
  • Trading Analyst Example 3
  • Cover Letter Writing Tips

Trading analysts are responsible for analyzing financial data to make informed investment decisions. They must be able to work with large data sets and identify trends in the market.

When you’re applying for a trading analyst position, you need to show that you have the skills and experience to do the job. Use these examples and tips to write a cover letter that will impress hiring managers.

Trading Analyst Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Trading Analyst position at Topdown Trading. I believe that my skills and experience would be a valuable addition to your team.

I have more than five years of experience working in the financial industry. In my previous role as a Trading Analyst at ABC Trading, I was responsible for analyzing and forecasting market trends, developing trading strategies, and managing risk. I have a proven track record of success in this field, and I am confident that I can bring value to Topdown Trading.

I am a strategic thinker with a strong quantitative background. I have a deep understanding of financial markets and the ability to analyze data to identify opportunities and trends. I am also experienced in developing and implementing trading strategies.

I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to Topdown Trading. I am eager to learn more about the Trading Analyst position and to discuss how my skills and experience can contribute to your organization. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Trading Analyst Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing in regards to the Trading Analyst opening that I saw on your website. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for.

I have been working in the trading industry for the past three years and have a wealth of experience and knowledge that I can bring to your company. I have a proven track record of success and have consistently exceeded expectations. I am a strategic thinker and have a knack for finding innovative solutions to complex problems.

I am also an excellent communicator and have a strong ability to build relationships with clients and colleagues. I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to your team and am eager to contribute to your company’s success.

If you would like to discuss this position further, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.

Trading Analyst Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Trading Analyst position that you have posted. I believe that my experience as a trader and my education in finance make me an ideal candidate for this position.

I began my career as a trader at XYZ Bank, where I was responsible for managing a portfolio of equities and options. My responsibilities included analyzing market trends, identifying opportunities for profit and risk reduction, and executing trades based on these analyses. I also worked closely with traders from other banks to develop strategies for trading in different markets.

In addition to my work as a trader, I also served as a mentor to junior traders. I taught them how to analyze market data and how to identify profitable trades. I also helped them develop their own strategies for trading in different markets.

I left XYZ Bank after two years to pursue a Master’s degree in Finance at NYU. While there, I focused on financial modeling and quantitative analysis. I also took several courses in corporate finance and macroeconomics. I believe that these skills will be valuable in my new role as a trading analyst.

I am confident that my experience as a trader and my education in finance will allow me to contribute positively to your company. I am also confident that my experience working with traders will help me quickly integrate into your team. Finally, I am confident that my ability to work independently will allow me to succeed in this position even if it requires long hours or unusual working conditions.

Thank you for considering me for this position. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Trading Analyst Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. showcase your skills.

When writing a cover letter for a trading analyst position, it’s important to showcase your skills and experience. Some of the best ways to do this include:

  • Listing the financial products you’re familiar with and have experience trading.
  • Detailing the analysis methods you use to identify profitable trading opportunities.
  • Mentioning the trading strategies you’re comfortable using (e.g., technical analysis, fundamental analysis, swing trading).

2. Customize your cover letter

Just as you would for any other job application, it’s important to customize your cover letter to fit the specific trading analyst role you’re applying for. Highlight your skills and experience that are the best match for the job requirements, and make sure to mention how you can contribute to the company’s success.

3. Show your passion for trading

In order to stand out from the other applicants, it’s important to show your passion for trading. This can be done by describing your trading journey, including the highs and lows you’ve experienced. It’s also a good idea to talk about your trading goals and how you plan to achieve them.

4. Proofread your cover letter

One of the most important things to do when applying for any job is to proofread your resume and cover letter. This will help ensure there are no errors that could potentially disqualify you from the hiring process.

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Trading Cover Letter

15 trading cover letter templates.

Trading Cover Letter Sample

How to Write the Trading Cover Letter

Please consider me for the trading opportunity. I am including my resume that lists my qualifications and experience.

In my previous role, I was responsible for general analytical support to the Global Markets swaps trading desk including market data analysis, development of spreadsheets and pricing tools.

I reviewed the requirements of the job opening and I believe my candidacy is an excellent fit for this position. Some of the key requirements that I have extensive experience with include:

  • A thorough understanding of airtime optimisation to maximise revenue with minimal wastage
  • A reasonable understanding of industry guidelines and regulations (OFCOM, BCAP, Clearcast)
  • Experience of working in advertising sales
  • Experience of working within TV sales
  • Good understanding of underlying products and market mechanisms
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with both internal and external parties
  • Good team player with matured personality in handling adverse situations
  • To be aware/adhere to all regulatory and ethical market practices

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Hayden Paucek

  • Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
  • PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
  • Image File (.png) .PNG

Responsibilities for Trading Cover Letter

Trading responsible for traders with valuable insights based on analysis of market developments and identifying forward pricing patterns to inform trading positions;.

Trading Examples

Example of trading cover letter.

I would like to submit my application for the trading opening. Please accept this letter and the attached resume.

In my previous role, I was responsible for subject matter expertise related to the North American power markets and Independent Service Operators (ISOs), as well as, physical and financial trading in said markets, to share insight with the broader IT teams supporting those businesses and markets.

My experience is an excellent fit for the list of requirements in this job:

  • Solid track record of generating positive PnL
  • Highly motivated and engaged personality
  • Proven aptitude for technology
  • Deep knowledge of credit
  • Knowledge and experience with other asset classes
  • Have an understanding of Profit and Loss
  • Effective influencer who can represent the business as a key negotiator to secure deals that will satisfy a wider business strategy
  • Trading insight –Deliver a suite of trading insight to ensure that trading performance can be articulated accurately and in a timely manner – including root-cause diagnosis of any over or under performance

Thank you in advance for reviewing my candidacy for this position.

Briar Considine

In the previous role, I was responsible for analytical support to the team in identifying, evaluating, and modeling optimization opportunities related to pricing, hedging, forecasting, transportation, delivery hub options, and other commercial terms, primarily to help facilitate decision-making.

  • Credible and able to present work up to the MD Trading
  • Excellent communication skills (both verbal/written) at a senior level / exec
  • Exceptional stakeholder management skills to director level, able to inform, influence and challenge confidently with conviction
  • Experience of engaging multiple stakeholders and prioritising their needs alongside their own
  • Microsoft Office such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint skills
  • Experience within a faced paced, high pressured commercial trading environment
  • Experience of leading a medium sized support team
  • Commercially astute and adept at managing politics of cross functional work interactions and priorities

Thank you in advance for taking the time to read my cover letter and to review my resume.

Sam Kerluke

In the previous role, I was responsible for solutions to technical issues, including “hands-on” data and code enhancements and defect fixing to the applications in the portfolio using tools like Python, SAS, R.

Please consider my qualifications and experience:

  • Provide mitigation or go-faster recommendations –Identify opportunities / risks to our forecast and make recommendations on options to course correct to ensure the business continues to grow and flourish
  • Excellent numeracy skills along with technical skills including excel/database/modelling
  • A Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and/or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) qualification would be an asset
  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Reuters and Bloomberg
  • Strong interpersonal skills capacity to work collaboratively and being part of a global and diverse team
  • Availabilities to work outside of normal office hours and flexibility around weekly schedule
  • Experience with advanced digital Ad Serving technology
  • Hands-on experience with media optimization or yield optimization through a bid management platform like a DSP, SSP, or a Paid Search platform

Thank you for taking your time to review my application.

Hayden Reichel

Previously, I was responsible for rapid diagnosis of and response to real-time requests associated with trading connected to clients tied to Orion’s straight-thru processing mechanism platform – Financial Information Exchange (FIX).

  • Knowledge of the programmatic media business and underlying internet technologies
  • Brilliant collaborator and communicator who is comfortable to work as part of a team lead a virtual team in a face paced environment
  • Experience of working with multiple data sources and recommending priority calls / decisions based on commercial insight, (trading vs financial aspects vs operational)
  • Experience of working with, and presenting to senior stakeholders (HOD/Director and above)
  • Strong decision making and prioritisation of own workload
  • Track record of delivery of high performance against targets at large scale
  • Able to handle difficult conversations and manage conflicting views and opinions to mutually beneficial solutions
  • Actively networks to continually build relationships and source new ideas and ways of working to enhance Trading performance

I am excited to be applying for the position of trading. Please accept this letter and the attached resume as my interest in this position.

In the previous role, I was responsible for timely and accurate FX options pricing to clients, including the construction of tailor made hedging strategies that meet each client’s specific needs.

  • Expert insight and analysis skills which will underpin every commercial decision
  • Be proactive in understanding emerging contact centre trends and a creative thinker who isn’t afraid to do things differently
  • Articulate and able to command the respect of colleagues and direct reports
  • Create, develop and deliver category strategies to achieve stretching growth targets across key areas of Digital, Souvenirs & Gifting, Travel Accessories and Cards & Stationery
  • Manage the sourcing and buying of categories to achieve the optimum commercial terms
  • Maintain and strengthen partnerships with key suppliers
  • Drive continuous improvement in range and promotional offers and displays in store to achieve market-leading standards
  • Carry out detailed financial evaluation of sales, contribution and margin across multiple activities

Thank you for considering me to become a member of your team.

Blake Legros

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cover letter for sales and trading

5+ Trader Cover Letter Examples and Templates

5+ Trader Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Home » Cover Letter Examples » 5+ Trader Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Trader Cover Letter

Explore 5+ Trader Cover Letter Examples and Templates to craft the perfect application. Tailored to the trading industry, these templates guide you to express your skills and experiences efficiently.

cover letter for sales and trading

Are you aspiring to become a trader in the financial industry? A well-written cover letter is a crucial tool to capture the attention of potential employers and highlight your qualifications and passion for the role. By effectively showcasing your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for trading, you can increase your chances of securing an interview.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with examples and templates for crafting a compelling cover letter tailored specifically for a trader position. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting in the field, our tips and techniques will help you create a persuasive cover letter that sets you apart from other applicants.

Trader Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Trader Cover Letter

1. Trader Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Trader position at [Company Name]. With a strong background in finance and a proven track record in executing trades and analyzing market trends, I believe I am a perfect fit for this role.

During my previous role as a Trader at [Previous Company], I successfully executed trades across various financial instruments, including stocks, options, and futures. I consistently achieved positive returns and generated profits for my clients through diligent research, risk management, and strategic decision-making.

I am highly skilled in utilizing trading platforms and tools such as Bloomberg and E-Trade to gather and analyze market data and make informed trading decisions. Additionally, my strong analytical skills and attention to detail allow me to identify patterns and trends in market behavior, which drives my strategy and ensures profitability.

I am confident that my ability to execute trades effectively and my in-depth understanding of financial markets make me a valuable asset to [Company Name]. I am eager to leverage my expertise to identify lucrative trading opportunities, mitigate risks, and contribute to the company’s success.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my qualifications align with your needs further. Please find attached my resume for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to interview with you and further demonstrate my suitability for the Trader position.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. Short Trader Cover Letter Sample

I am writing to express my interest in the Trader position at [Company Name]. With a strong passion for financial markets and a proven ability to execute trades, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of [Company Name].

As a Trader at [Previous Company], I successfully executed trades across various financial instruments and consistently achieved above-average returns. I have experience utilizing trading platforms and tools to analyze market data and make informed investment decisions. My strong analytical skills and ability to identify market trends enable me to generate profitable trading strategies.

I am confident that my expertise in executing trades and my passion for financial markets make me a valuable addition to [Company Name]. Attached is my resume for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your needs in more detail.

Thank you for considering my application.

3. Trader Cover Letter for Job Application

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the Trader position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. With a strong background in finance and extensive experience in executing trades and analyzing market trends, I am confident in my ability to contribute to [Company Name]’s success.

In my previous role as a Trader at [Previous Company], I successfully executed trades across various financial instruments, including stocks, options, and futures. I consistently achieved positive returns and generated profits for my clients through diligent research, risk management, and strategic decision-making. Additionally, I have a deep understanding of trading platforms and tools such as Bloomberg and E-Trade to gather and analyze market data.

I am confident in my ability to execute trades effectively and my strong analytical mindset allows me to identify patterns and trends in market behavior. Furthermore, my excellent problem-solving skills enable me to adapt to changing market conditions and make informed trading decisions.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]’s success as a Trader. Attached is my resume for your consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and qualifications align with your needs in more detail.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to interview with you.

4. Trader Cover Letter for a Candidate with no Experience

I am writing to express my interest in the Trader position at [Company Name]. Although I have recently graduated with a degree in Finance, I am eager to apply my knowledge and passion for financial markets to contribute to [Company Name]’s success.

During my academic studies, I developed a strong foundation in financial analysis, risk management, and trading strategies. My coursework and projects provided me with hands-on experience in using trading platforms and tools to analyze market data and make informed investment decisions.

I am a quick learner with a strong analytical mindset and attention to detail. I am confident that my ability to analyze market trends and my passion for financial markets make me a strong candidate for the Trader role. Additionally, my internship experience in a different field has equipped me with valuable transferable skills such as teamwork, time management, and effective communication.

I am eager to contribute to [Company Name]’s success as a Trader. Attached is my resume for your consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and qualifications align with your needs in more detail.

5. Sample Application Letter for Trader with Experience

I am excited to apply for the Trader position at [Company Name]. With over [Number of Years] years of experience in executing trades and analyzing market trends, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to support [Company Name]’s growth.

In my current role as a Trader at [Current Company], I have successfully executed trades across various financial instruments and consistently achieved positive returns. I have a deep understanding of trading platforms and tools, including Bloomberg and E-Trade, and leverage them to gather and analyze market data to make informed investment decisions.

I am highly skilled in analyzing market trends and identifying lucrative trading opportunities. My strong analytical skills and attention to detail enable me to develop and execute profitable trading strategies. Additionally, my excellent problem-solving skills allow me to adapt to changing market conditions and mitigate risks effectively.

I am confident that my extensive experience and strong trading skills make me an ideal candidate for the Trader role. Attached is my resume for your review. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and qualifications align with your needs in more detail.

How to Write a Trader Cover Letter

To create an effective trader cover letter, you need to follow a clear structure and include relevant information that showcases your qualifications and demonstrates your potential as a trader. Let’s explore step-by-step guidelines to help you craft an compelling cover letter that impresses potential employers.

Objective of a Trader Cover Letter

  • Introduce yourself and express your interest in the trader position.
  • Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and academic background.
  • Demonstrate your knowledge of financial markets and trading strategies.
  • Showcase your analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Thank the employer for considering your application.

Key Components for Trader Cover Letters

  • Contact Information: Begin your cover letter with your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top.
  • Salutation: Address the reader by their name or use a professional greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager” if the name is unknown.
  • Introduction Paragraph: State the position you are applying for and introduce yourself briefly. Clearly express your interest in the role and the company you are applying to.
  • Body Paragraphs:
  • Skills and Qualifications: Highlight your skills relevant to trading, such as analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, mathematical proficiency, and computer literacy.
  • Experience and Achievements: Discuss your previous roles, internships, or academic projects related to trading or financial analysis. Mention any achievements or results you obtained in these positions.
  • Knowledge of Financial Markets: Demonstrate your understanding of financial markets, trading strategies, and risk management practices. Mention any certifications or licenses you hold, such as series licenses or CFA designation.
  • Passion for Trading: Explain your passion for the trading industry, why you find it exciting, and how you stay updated with current market trends and news.
  • Fit for the Company: Connect your skills and experiences to attributes that align with the company culture, values, or investment philosophy. Show enthusiasm for the company and emphasize how you can contribute to its success.
  • Closing Paragraph: Summarize your key qualifications and interest in the position. Express your availability for further discussion and provide your contact details. Thank the employer for considering your application.
  • Formal Closing: End your letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards,” followed by your full printed name.
  • Signature: Sign your name between the closing and your printed name. If submitting electronically, you can type your name instead.

Formatting Tips for a Trader Cover Letter:

While writing your trader cover letter, you should pay attention to format and appearance. Consider the following tips:

  • Limit the cover letter to one page.
  • Use a professional font and size, such as Arial or Times New Roman in 11 or 12 points.
  • Utilize spacing effectively by leaving a blank line between each of the sections.
  • Align text to the left and justify it for clean and uniform appearance.
  • Use bullet points or paragraphs to highlight crucial information and ensure readability.
  • Proofread carefully for any spelling, grammar, or formatting errors to maintain a professional image.

Tips for Writing Your Trader Cover Letter

When crafting your cover letter for a trader position, consider the following tips to boost your chances of success:

  • Customize your cover letter to the specific requirements of the trader position and the company you are applying to.
  • Highlight your relevant quantitate and analytical skills such as proficiency in data analysis, mathematical modeling, and statistical techniques.
  • Mention any experience or internships directly related to the industry, such as work with trading firms, investment banks, or financial institutions.
  • Showcase your ability to handle pressure and make sound decisions under challenging market conditions.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with trading platforms, analytics tools, and financial software.
  • If you have a track record of successful trades or investments, mention any notable achievements that highlight your ability to generate positive results.
  • Clearly communicate your passion for trading and enthusiasm for a career in the financial markets industry.
  • Use dynamic and action-oriented language to convey your ideas and proactive approach to trading.
  • Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible to provide context and validate your claims.

How Long Should a Trader Cover Letter Be?

A trader cover letter should generally be concise yet impactful, aiming for approximately three paragraphs. Focus on including your most relevant qualifications and achievements while ensuring that the letter remains easy to read. Remember, quality over quantity is vital when drafting your cover letter.

How Do I Write a Trader Cover Letter with No Experience?

If you are an aspiring or entry-level trader with limited experience, there are still ways to craft a compelling cover letter. Consider the following tips:

  • Highlight relevant transferable skills from other industries, such as strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.
  • Emphasize your educational background and course projects related to trading or finance.
  • Discuss any involvement in investment clubs, finance-related student organizations, or relevant coursework/competitions.
  • Show a strong willingness to learn and develop your skills in the trading field.
  • Mention any certifications, such as securities licensing exams or knowledge of trading software and platforms.

Competing in the job market as a trader with no experience can be challenging, but by demonstrating your passion, motivation, and transferable skill set, you can still make a strong impact with your cover letter.

Key Takeaways

Writing a well-crafted trader cover letter allows you to demonstrate your skills, passion, and potential as a successful trader. Remember the following key points:

  • Tailor your cover letter to the trader position you’re applying for.
  • Highlight your relevant skills, accomplishments, and quantitative abilities.
  • Exhibit your industry knowledge and passion for financial markets.
  • Maintain a professional tone throughout, using action-oriented language whenever possible.

In Conclusion

A professionally written trader cover letter is an essential component in a successful job application in the finance industry. Customize your letter to win the attention of potential employers, highlighting your best features, and demonstrating your qualifications. By following this guide, you’ll be equipped to create a winning cover letter that helps you stand out from the competition.

Now it’s time to put your skills to work and start crafting your tailored Trader cover letter. Good luck!

Career Expert Tips:

  • If you're stepping into the professional world, understanding the basics is crucial. Learn What is a cover letter and its role in the job application process.
  • How to start a cover letter can be a challenging task. Get a comprehensive guide on how to kickstart your cover letter and make a strong first impression.
  • Looking for inspiration to draft your own cover letter? Browse through these Cover letter examples to find a style that fits your profession.
  • Why start from scratch? Use these Cover Letter Templates tailored for various professions to simplify your job application process.
  • How long should a cover letter be : The length of a cover letter is vital in conveying your message concisely. Discover the optimal length to make sure your cover letter is not too short nor too long.
  • Ensure that you know how to write a resume in a way that highlights your competencies.
  • Check the expert curated popular good CV and resume examples

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The Perfect Sales & Trading Resume Template?

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cover letter for sales and trading

I still remember the beginning of my freshman year and my first visit to the career office…

I was eager and determined to craft the perfect resume that would land me a summer internship in Sales & Trading at a bulge bracket bank.

After spending hours and days working with an advisor going back and forth, I sent it over to a buddy of mine who was a trader at Citi, who had promised to help me with it…

In less than 5 minutes, he emailed me back with his assessment: “This is sh*t.”

And that was my welcome to the world of trading – blunt, rude, and to the point.

Ultimately, I completely revamped my resume and used it to land an offer at a bulge bracket bank – coming from a non-target school with absolutely 0 on-campus recruiting.

Here’s how I did it, and how you can do the same:

The Template & Tutorial

Let’s jump right in:

Sales & Trading Resume Template [Download]

Downlaod Template – Word

Download Template – PDF

Note: You should always submit your resume in PDF format unless they tell you otherwise.

Here’s the tutorial video:

  • View Large Version
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  • Download iPod Version
  • Download the MP3

Your Resume Template Starting Point

Let’s not waste time with the basics: you need to use the existing resume template on this site as your starting point.

Yes, it says “investment banking resume” but it works equally well for Sales & Trading, and you save time by eliminating the need to format everything.

Forget about multi-page resumes (unless you’re in Australia, maybe), and resist the urge to write a laundry list of halfhearted experiences: still focus on the top 3-4 work/leadership experiences you have.

You still use the same sections: Education, Work & Leadership Experience (or “Professional Experience”), and then the section at the bottom with your Skills, Activities and Interests.

And the same advice about quantifying experience and going into the details and results of what you did still applies.

What’s different with Sales & Trading is the input to this resume template.

Above all else, S&T recruiters look for these 3 characteristics on your resume:

Quantitative Ability

Analytical skills, passion for the financial markets.

Note the contrast between what they’re looking for in IB vs. S&T : in investment banking they care more about your ability to work long hours, leadership / teamwork skills, and general passion for business and finance rather than the markets specifically.

Those characteristics can still be important in S&T since it’s far from a 9-to-5 job, and since you do interact with salespeople / traders.

But the overall focus is more on quantitative / analytical ability and passion for the markets.

It’s trickier than it looks to convey these skills on your resume, but you must get them across if you want a good shot at winning interviews and landing offers.

This is one of the most important skills required to land a job in S&T. Whether you’re in fixed income or equity, you must be able to work quickly and efficiently with numbers.

You’re constantly calculating prices to quote to clients, and one tiny little error can end up costing your firm or your client millions of dollars…

…and in some cases even your job (I’m looking at you, fat finger traders).

So you should emphasize anything related to math on your resume:

  • Math or math-related major or minor
  • Quantitative coursework
  • High math SAT scores (750+) or math A-Levels (if you’re in the UK)
  • Math club / Math-related competitions
  • Previous internship or experience where you did a lot of quantitative work – think number-crunching, engineering, anything with spreadsheets, and so on.

If a trader glances at your resume and sees that you’re an English major with no math-related coursework and no quantitative work experience, he’ll (rightfully) be skeptical of whether you can do the job.

So if that’s you, get relevant experience right now: take a more quantitative class and write about an extended project you worked on, or get a part-time internship doing something that involves numbers.

It doesn’t even have to be finance-related: it just needs to demonstrate that you’re comfortable working with numbers.

Wait, isn’t this the same as quantitative ability?

No, not quite.

“Quantitative ability” refers specifically to numbers, whereas “Analytical skills” refers to any type of analysis you do, whether it’s quantitative or qualitative.

If the central bank raises interest rates, what does that mean for your positions or your clients’ positions?

You may not be able to answer that with a number, but you can come up with qualitative guesses for what might happen and how you should react.

If you’re from a liberal arts or mixed background you might be tempted to demonstrate this one via your analysis of Moby Dick or Hamlet , but that would be a mistake: find something that’s more relevant to business, even if it’s qualitative.

The best way to demonstrate this is via coursework or previous work / internship experience:

  • Write about how you analyzed a company’s strategic position vs. competitors as part of a case competition or a business class.
  • Write about how you analyzed your firm’s marketing efforts and found ways to save money and improve the ROI of their spending.
  • Write about how you analyzed a stock and decided to invest via your personal account based on valuation metrics and value investing criteria.

There’s no such thing as over-using the word “Analyze” when you write your bullet points for this one (Ok, maybe keep it to one mention per bullet point…).

If you don’t have some experience with the financial markets, don’t even bother applying for S&T roles .

You might be able to get into IB or PE without trading or following the markets very much, but it’s almost impossible to do that here.

Unlike bankers, most traders actually enjoy what they do – at least when they first start out – so they want to see that you will also enjoy it.

You could demonstrate this passion with:

  • Your major – Being a finance major helps.
  • Previous work experience – Anything where you traded or dealt with the markets.
  • Clubs in school – Think of any type of finance or investment society where you present your ideas, talk about possible investments, and so on.

If you have absolutely nothing in these categories, you could list a mock trading account or personal trading account – but beware that many professionals don’t take these seriously, so doing so could hurt you.

Also, realistically, you will  not win S&T offers at large banks if all you have is mock trading experience. You need a sequence of previous finance internships to maximize your chances.

Got Education and Work Experience?

That covers the main points for your Education and Work & Leadership Experience sections on your resume.

But traders like to have a good time , too, so the last section of your resume is also important.

Skills, Activities & Interests

Not too much is different here from what you see on IB resumes: note any language skills you have, any organizations or activities beyond what you’ve already written about, and any certifications such as the CFA (no, it won’t help much for S&T, but it’s worth noting especially if you don’t have much experience).

The most common question here: should you list “Interests” like gambling and poker?

Short answer: yes , they can definitely help because sales & trading is all about risk management, probability, and keeping your emotions in-check… just like gambling.

I know an analyst who made a deal with his boss that he could use the boss’s money to play poker and take 25% of the profit…

Sounds crazy, but it’s true – anyone on the public markets side of a bank loves to take calculated risks, or they wouldn’t be working there.

Just make sure that you don’t come across as overly obsessed with gambling / poker – don’t devote huge portions of your resume to it, and don’t spend half your interview talking about your poker winnings.

No firm wants to hire a rogue trader that will lose them a billion dollars.

Putting It All Together

As I mentioned in the beginning, the same resume template still applies for S&T, so there’s nothing new there.

What’s different is how you write about your experiences and what you emphasize.

More Questions?

I know, you still have a few lingering questions so let’s go through them…

What’s the Difference Between a Sales Resume and a Trading Resume?

Nothing! Or at least, very little.

When you apply, you apply for S&T, not a specific group… during the interview you can stress your preference for one or the other.

So you still need to write about your quantitative and analytical abilities and your passion for the financial markets…

…but if you’re more interested in sales , you must also be a “people person,” a good communicator, and a team player.

Sales is all about making your client feel special and making sure that they are sending your bank business.

You take your clients out 3-5 times a week, and you’re on the phone with them all day.

So you should emphasize a few points more strongly if you’re planning to join the sales side:

  • Social Clubs (fraternities/sororities).
  • Sports Teams – S&T recruiters love athletes (it shows you are a team player, and that can handle stressful situations).
  • General involvement in extracurricular activities / non-work-related activities.

What About High School / Secondary School Experience? Can I List It If It’s Really Impressive?

Normally it’s not a good idea to write about high school, especially if you’re already several years into university or you’ve already graduated.

If it’s something truly amazing – placing well at the International Math Olympiad, a national math competition where you placed well, etc. – you can make an exception and list that.

But if you’ve already been working full-time for several years, you should not devote much space to it unless you have absolutely nothing else to demonstrate your math skills.

No, Seriously, What About Certifications, Degrees, and Series Licenses?!!

Sure, list them if you want to but don’t kill yourself getting them.

It’s far better to spend that time 1) Networking or 2) Getting experience trading / investing on your own.

Series 7 and 63 and so on are more helpful for S&T than they would be for banking, but they still won’t make or break your chances of winning interviews.

What If I Really Have Nothing Related to the Financial Markets?

Then you have a problem. You need to get some experience ASAP, and the fastest way to do that is to join a student-run fund or professional organization, or to start trading your own personal account, whether simulated or real.

Of course, this begs another question: if you don’t have any markets-related experience, are you sure Sales & Trading is even right for you?

It’s like aspiring to become a novelist but having no writing experience.

What About S&T Resumes for Those with Full-Time Work Experience?

To be blunt, you don’t have much of a chance of getting into S&T at a large bank if you’ve already been working full-time in another field.

There are fewer spots available, and traders rarely even hire from the MBA pool, let alone experienced professionals elsewhere.

If you have your heart set on this, your best bet is to aim for a sale role instead (experience elsewhere is more transferable), or to go for prop trading or something else where results are valued more than pedigree.

Your actual resume will not be much different: focus on all the points above, but put your Education section at the bottom, keep your experience to work-related experience, and leave out student clubs and activities.

You should still list professional organizations and your own investing track record, but you can’t eliminate real work experience in favor of those.

Anything Else?

The floor is yours. Ask away.

This is a guest post from a reader who broke into Sales & Trading (S&T) coming from a non-target school. In the upcoming features in this series, we’ll continue to explore the sales & trading recruiting process with coverage of interviews and more.

  • Sales & Trading Recruiting, Part 1 – Overview
  • Sales & Trading Recruiting, Part 2 – Networking
  • Sales & Trading Recruiting, Part 3 – Resumes
  • Sales & Trading Recruiting, Part 4 – Interviews – Your Story and “Fit” Questions
  • Sales & Trading Recruiting, Part 5 – Interviews – Markets, Brainteasers, and Mental Math

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  • Detailed, line-by-line editing of your resume/CV – Everything that needs to be changed will be changed. No detail is ignored.
  • Your experience will be “bankified” regardless of whether you’ve been a student, a researcher, a marketer, a financier, a lawyer, an accountant, or anything else.
  • Optimal structuring – You’ll learn where everything from Education to Work Experience to Activities should go. Regional badminton champion? Stamp collector? You’ll find out where those should go, too.
  • The 3-point structure to use for all your “Work Experience” entries: simple, but highly effective at getting the attention of bankers.
  • How to spin non-finance experience into sounding like you’ve been investing your own portfolio since age 12.
  • How to make business-related experience, such as consulting, law, and accounting, sounds like “deal work.”
  • How to avoid the fatal resume mistake that gets you automatically rejected . Nothing hurts more than making a simple oversight that gets you an immediate “ding”.
  • We only work with a limited number of clients each month. In fact, we purposely turn down potential clients in cases where we cannot add much value. We prefer quality over quantity, and we always want to ensure that we can work well together first.

FIND OUT MORE

cover letter for sales and trading

About the Author

Brian DeChesare is the Founder of Mergers & Inquisitions and Breaking Into Wall Street . In his spare time, he enjoys lifting weights, running, traveling, obsessively watching TV shows, and defeating Sauron.

Free Exclusive Report: 57-page guide with the action plan you need to break into investment banking - how to tell your story, network, craft a winning resume, and dominate your interviews

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90 thoughts on “ The Perfect Sales & Trading Resume Template? ”

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Hi! I am just wondering whether I could get help from resume screen for prop shops (like JS, Optiver, etc.)? Has been devastating to keep getting rejected :(

cover letter for sales and trading

Are you asking if we can review your resume and offer feedback? If so, no, not for free, though we do offer it as a paid service (detailed edit) and also if you’re a customer of one of our courses (quick review and comments).

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Hey Brian, I got a question. I had two trading internship, but my bosses in these two companies didn’t let me do things besides operation. I could only try to look at the P&L to see how the trading room profit. My question is that is there any project that I can put on the resume to fill the blank and convincing my future employee I got passion in trading office. The FX project.

I don’t know. Maybe try to spin your work into saying that you improved the firm’s efficiency or profitability or something like that, and you initially started in operations but became interested in trading after observing the traders there and tracking their records.

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For both ibanking and s&t resumes, would you include the company name of whatever company you invest in or not?

For example, Apple Inc. or $100 billion Technology Company

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Yes, I’d include the company name.

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I am almost an aerospace engineer and I have to complete to more years to get a degree in business administration. I have just taken an internship in a small company similar to Bloomberg but quite smaller.

After the exams, I thought that it would be a good idea to take another internship. What do you think about a mutual fund, or something related to wealth management or similar??

Thank you in advanced

I made a mistake: ” I have to complete *two* years more”

Sure, an internship in asset management can be useful.

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I’ve been working for a short while now. I had a solid CV when I was a student thanks to you guys. i’ struggling now though to build a CV that I think would be strong for a mildly experienced sales person. Do you have any advice on the kinds of things I can include under my work experience to reflect everything that I’ve learnt in my current job?

I’d focus on the impact you’ve made i.e. how much sales you generated. If you’ve done any analytical work I’d include that too.

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There’s a typo on the text on the template download button, it says downlaod. Feel free to delete this comment later!

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Hello Brian, thank you very much for this interesting topic and thank you to the entire team for this great website with which I learned a lot of things.

My situation is a little bit complicated. I’ve ended a Management School this year (4 months ago) with a Master in Financial Engineering with decent grades in a good school in my country (Belgium), and I am looking actively for a job now. I am 25 years old and passionate about financial markets and quantitaive analysis/macroeconomics. I have some interesting staff from an academic point of view on my resume (like my quantitative classes, my master Thesis or the fact that I speak 5 languages). I am also a self learner, trying now while I am looking for a job to improve my math,finance, programming skills .

I would like to work in the trading area/research/quantitaive analysis in London, but unfortunately I lack the essentials on my resume for this kind of position. The extracurricular activities (I don’t think that Tai Chi Chuan would be relevant for a trading position), the work experience (only 3 months of internship), or the trading account ( I’ve found some little funds now and I am in touch with a broker to do it as quickly as possible). I demonstrated my leadership during our group works at the university, but doubt that it will be relevant.

My questions are as follow:

1. How in those circumstances try to show my dedication and passion (through my self learning), but without appearing as a nerd, and to try to obtain an internship this year?

2. While I am aware that getting an internship this year in S&T investment banks and/or funds would be difficult, there are 2 opportunities at one of the Big 4 firms (they come often in my School to recruit and 3 of my finance teachers work for them), 1 opportunity is at an advisory department for corporate finance and the other is for risk management (with a lot of quantitative staff to do , but it is not a junior job rather a trainership). Would this be viewed as a negative work experience on a trading floor for a big investment bank or hedge funds/prop trading ? And with addition of a trading record?

3. The idea would also be to work for the Big 4 company 1-3 years, spare money and go for an econometric master in London School of Economics, but then wouldn’t my age (28-30) be a problem?

4. I completely agree that network is essential, nevertheless it is quiet a problem knowing that I want to go to London but will be working on continental Europe, do you have some tricks for this kind of situation?

Of course if I don’t get a position that I really want this year, my projects will be to work, spare money, have a trading account, network as hard as I can and maybe do some certifications (if time allows).

And as to “how bad do I want to get in this area”, my answer is… bad…really bad.

Thank you very much for your help !

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Can i use the same advice for summer internship in asset management?

Which advice were you referring to?

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First of all, i would like to say a big Thanks for creating this website, it really benefits me so much! You have kept my worrisome aside! My name is Chew,22, I come from Malaysia, studying in last semester of my undergraduate finance local University, my current CGPA is around 3.65/4, and I’m fighting to get First Class honor in this semester which it must be 3.75 or above. It was a big regret that my parents coudnt afford to send me to University of Queensland to finalize my last year degree. I really don’t know how to depict how passion am i to financial market, i started to trade stock when i was 18 and move to forex 2 years ago, proper risk management, mindset and psychology is applied at trading. And i have read some books about option trading, unfortunately due to my busy school work, i do not have extra time to practice it. In addition, Im very interested in trading any financial instrument, i found them very interesting. Actually i have spent most of my university time on learning how to become a professional trader and building my track record since i know Im not coming from famous business school(my university is quite famous in Malaysia though). My ambition is to join hedge fund as junior trader then target to become a portfolio manager, or to become an investment bank trader. I plan to start my career in Singapore since there are lot of companies doing fund management, so the opportunities are much more and the future is brighter there, then i may move to Hongkong or Sydney if there are better opportunities. If i cant get into Singapore, i may start with local investment bank for 2-3 years. Besides, there are some experience i got for my past 3 years – i have joined several stock trading competitions in past 3 years(no awards), i was give a month trial by a private company to manage a pool of funds but fail to get it and i have actually started my own small MAM account(Manage account) last year to help few of my friends and my family to trade/invest, my objective is to gain responsibility and get the experience to work under stress condition during my earlier age, because i know im eager to work in fund management next time. In the meantime, I have deep understanding about the global microeconomics, i understand what drive the current market and those factors that may affect the market, i am also have the agility to react to sudden news events or making big decision, and i have strong investment gut feeling which able to predict the movement accurately most of the time. In my trading experience, i have suffered time of up and down and eventually know how to become a professional trader. Last but not least, I was previous a state swimmer during age of 12-15, i understood how having playing in sport have affected my attitudes(high self-confidence, competitiveness and wanting to win) and also i plan to do CFA lvl 1 in December, would you suggest me to do so? Since im going to graduate in 2 months time, and i should be ready to write my resume and apply for trading job. There are few questions before i start writing the resume, should I mention those trading competitions under working experience? Should i mention i was a sportsman? Base on my information given above, could you suggest me which part should i focus more when writing resume? How do you think about my experience?

I really appreciate! Thank you very much. Hope to hear from you soon. My email [email protected]

In response to your questions: – should I mention those trading competitions under working experience? Yes, under trading experience – Should i mention i was a sportsman? Yes – this would help – Base on my information given above, could you suggest me which part should i focus more when writing resume? I think the article gives you quite detailed guidelines to follow. If you follow that this would help you

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Hi M&I I’ve put down mock trading under interests, how does that sound? Should I also perhaps specify what platform I am using? Also I have four university degrees, one which I am currently doing while I work, must I list all my degrees? For instance my undegrad was a BA in politics which seems like just a waste of space right?

Yes I may include more details re. your mock trading experience

Yes it is best to list all your degrees assuming you have space. You can perhaps spend less space on the degrees that are less recent and may not matter as much

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Hey all ! I have a question about career strategy planning here. I am currently finishing my master’s degree in France but couldn’t land any interview for Sales&Trading so far. I’ve done internships in a big bank but not related to trading (energy & commodity financing loans). I might have a chance to land a trading job/internship in Colombia (my second homecountry); but I wonder whether it would be possible afterwards to go back to europe for a real sales/trader job in a big firm. Would an experience in an emerging country be as valuable ? Many thanks for your prompt reply!

It might help, but they would still discount the experience since it’s in an emerging market. But if that is the best option you have for doing S&T, I would take it because it will still be better than doing something unrelated in Europe.

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Brian, thank you for your sharing. May I ask why did you hide the names of those stocks being pitched in the resume template? Should we do in that descriptive way or just give the ticker/name?

Thanks, Lorraine

If the information isn’t sensitive (most likely isn’t), you can list the name of the stock.

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if i want be an Wall Stree Investment Banking Sales & Trading what can I do now

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Hey – First of all great article as usual, keep up the good work!

I have a question: one of my main hobbies is Urban Exploration (which is, according to Wikipedia, “the exploration of man-made structures, usually abandoned ruins or not usually seen components of the man-made environment”) The thing is that this “sport” has a sketchy reputation, so do you think I should include it on my resume?

Thanks in advance!

No it is fine, you can include it on your resume.

But should I?

I think it may be a good idea to list it. I don’t see anything wrong with it.

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Hi I’ve been working at a prop trading firm in NY for several years, but looking to transition into big bank, then hedge fund. Strangely, I may have better leads in U.K. or Singapore than NY. If there’s an opportunity abroad, can traders easily transfer to NY after a couple years? Not sure how that works. I wouldn’t mind learning/trading a new product to get into a bank, but would prefer to live in NY over long run. Thanks.

It depends on your market knowledge (and visa – but I presume you have the work permit since you’ve worked in NY for several years.) I think it is doable to transfer locations though you’ll have to demonstrate your track record as well as your market knowledge

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What would be an appropriate heading for the blurb in my resume under experience about my personal trading? Just graduated from college and have been actively trading daily for 3 years using technical analysis and calculated entries and exits.

I’d put it under Personal Trading Experience, under Professional Experience

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Your website is unbelievably helpful and encouraging! I really appreciate you guys’ detailed hard work. Hopefully one day I can contribute to this website!

I have 2 questions:

1) I have been managing 3 real money online stock accounts. One of them was opened in 2009, and the other two were started this year. I was investing for two years since 2009, and have been swing trading since this year (But getting really serious only since June).

My question is, do I list this in Work & Leadership Experience section or as an Activity on my resume? I have a lot experience and thinking to list, but I wonder this may not qualify for a “Work Experience”.

2) For this recent quarter, my accounts are making losses right now. The reason was mainly because I’m also a full time college student, which I cannot monitor the stock market and find news in time everyday (But I have tried my best whenever I have time).

I read above in a similar comment where you said “avoid listing the results of your trades and instead explain your thinking behind them in detail” and “say they were fairly recent so it’s too soon to tell since you plan to hold for the long-term”. But my question is, is it good to list (or say when asked) that I have been “swing trading” (since this is more focused on short-term results than investing)? How do I answer? I do have a lot of experience to talk about, but I can only see a profit later this year or early next year.

1. You can list it under Trading Experience 2. Yes you can still list it – just talk about your strategy, your reasoning, what you’ve done etc

Thanks a lot!

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Thanks for the article above. My resume is highly IBD focused but still shows very a strong ‘quantitative ability’ and solid ‘analytical skills’… but I don’t have a passion for the financial markets (FTSE etc)… but do like reading up about M&A deals etc. However, because I study at LSE, and because of my quantitative degree/background, recruiters/people in the industry automatically categorise me as a ‘quant hedge fund analyst/trader’… even though I have IBD experience and present my resume in the ‘IBD’ way. BBs have called me requesting I apply for a S&T internship, not IBD, but I am not interested in S&T (i have shadowed traders and didn’t see myself do that for even 3 months!) so there is a problem. Do you know what I can do?

I’m not quite sure what your resume is like so it is hard for me to advise you on this forum

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My apologies for the ignorance and grammatical errors. I’m on lunch break right now.

M&I: I’m going to be a senior in high school next year and I’m interested in finance. I know it sounds cliche because everyone thinks they want to be an investment banker when their in highschool-but I want to be an investment banker. I plan to get an MBA after 2-3 years of working after college. I’d like to start out at as an associate at a decent firm. What can I do to start preparing now? What should I major in for my undergraduate studies? I’m going to Washington and Lee (hopefully) and they don’t exactly have a straight finance major, just economics, accounting, etc. I’ve had a mock-portfolio for two years and I plan on setting up an account when I get home from this internship I’m doing right now at a mutual fund. The buy side is pretty interesting and pleasant, so why would I ever want to be an i-banker? This group hasn’t hired anyone in 11 years and they rarely take interns. Also, I have many connections to some bigwigs at well known firms, so networking won’t be as hard for me. You blog is remarkably interesting, by the way.

Try to major in business preferably finance and accounting if you can. Otherwise, try economics. Yes if you are interested in investing the buy side would be interesting for you

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Hey Brian, I agree with this article very much. I just finished my internship with Standard Chartered Global Markets (Manila, Philippines) and got to sit with the different trading desks (not to mention 1 month with Debt Cap. Mkts). More than anything they appreciated my hunger to trade and passion for the market (and never-stressed nature). They like the fact that I trade with simulation accounts and when I’ve got downtime, they see me reading newspapers or money.cnn.com, WSJ etc. Traders don’t find it weird that you’re so enthusiastic and trade with simulator accounts – they think you’re genuinely hungry enough to do this. They don’t teach trading in school, so they want you to want really bad it because they’re taking time away from watching the market to teach you, some random college kid.

(Got invites to work with them when I graduate btw, from multiple desks, DCM and the MD, thank you for all the advice you post on this site, I read it religiously.)

“Traders don’t find it weird that you’re so enthusiastic and trade with simulator accounts – they think you’re genuinely hungry enough to do this” : Yes, because the above shows that you have a genuine passion for the markets. Your work is a major part of your life, esp if you work in trading/IB! I believe one needs to have a passion for the markets (and interviewers can tell whether you have a genuine passion in it or not), a strong EQ and ability to manage one’s emotions, and a strong drive to succeed in order to excel in trading

Congratulations!

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Love the template and advice given. Just got a question about the work and leadership section. Would it be better to put in the experience in order of time or by relevance? I did a corporate finance internship last year, but currently doing some less relevant work such as mentoring and tutoring.

In order of time is best because interviewers usually value your most recent (and most relevant) experience. Are you working FT as a mentor/tutor? If its not a full time role, I’d highlight put your corp fin experience as the 1st work entry under your work experience and put your mentor/tutor experience at the bottom of your resume or below your corp fin entry depending on what you do as a mentor/tutor

well, im tutoring high school maths and english, part time. So i guess this is less relevant and should be below the corp finance experience

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I loved this article, will you guys be doing any “day in the life” articles for S&T? I read the intern one but I’d like a good idea of what a full-time S&T employee does on a daily basis. Thanks!

Thanks! And yes, we hope to do more day in the life features on S&T soon. There is the intern one right now but I want to cover different desks and what full-timers do as well.

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I am a Software Engineer with 7 years software engineering experience and have a BEng degree and nothing else related to finance. I play Poker in small club and I am an endurance cyclist with a couple of my old friends. I have my own mock account I trade on but it only picks stocks from the London Stock Exchange. What sort of layout in brief do I need to get into Sales and Trading. My experience at work saved hours and money and we resurrected few customers on our account at work because of the changes I advised on.

You can list your mock account, stocks you invested in and the returns you generated.

OK. So in this case my resume will be education, experience (here I will put any achievements and advices I made which is basically software development but will make it business oriented and how much I have saved the company), skills, activities and interest (I will put I am fluent in arabic, oracle certified, have my own mock account in trading, I will also add in the CV I won 3 times in a row the investment competition when I was in school 18 years ago). Is that good ? Or is there a better layout.

Sure. Education, Experience, Skills, Activities & Interests …

One last point. Under which section do I list the mock account ? is it under professional experience and it should it be before my current job ? Please let me know. Also in the article it says if you are in full time education you put the experience before the education and leave out Skills, Activities & Interests … Is this all still true ?

Under Professional Experience works. If your current job isn’t finance related, yes I’d list your mock account above your current job Yes I’d follow the article’s guidelines

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In London, fantasy trading accounts are not viewed positively. I have spoken to people at all levels (analyst up to a CEO of one of the most prestigious boutiques in the city).

The logic is, ‘I do not want you on the floor if you’ve got a punting account,’ It is unfortunately as simple as that.

You are far better off making sure you have very very strong opinions (developed by reading/following the markets) and knowing your stuff than having a fantasy account. Even if you’re using real money, it isn’t viewed in a positive light.

One caveat I’ve seen is some traders preferring to hire people (this is for the UK only) kids with an A in A level mathematics + a liberal arts degree (french, history, politics, economics etc) just b/c these kids tend to be “more interesting”

I find that hard to believe, especially if you’re using real money. How else could you possibly know if you are good at trading without trading yourself first? And if it comes down to 2 people with similar profiles, would the non-trader really win out?

Still, there may be regional differences and it could be the case that trading accounts are not viewed positively in the UK.

From discussions with traders at bulge bracket banks in New York, I know that most of them would much prefer someone who’s passionate about trading and who has done it before vs. someone who just thinks it sounds cool but doesn’t have any experience.

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For the Fall recruiting season, when do first-round interviews for S&T Analyst positions typically start? Prior to the first-round interviews beginning, will they inform you of their decision to advance you to the first round by messaging you via e-mail or through phone?

If you are asked to come for a real interview in an office in NY or London, say, would they mail you the airplane tickets several days or weeks in advance? (I’m not sure how the logistics of this works out.)

FT Analysts roles – usually quite early in the US, maybe August or September. But it varies a bit by bank and region.

If you make resume cutoff they will usually just email you, would take a long time to call everyone.

They will either book the tickets for you online or tell you to do it and reimburse you.

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Hi, would you please release the general accepted fees (introduction, success) wages and expenses scheme, I’m negotiating and don’t want to be pretentious neither be lower nor out of bounds. Thanks & regards

Sorry but I don’t understand your question. I think you’ve asked something like this on Facebook before and I didn’t understand it then either.

If you’re asking about the fees you pay to a bank when they advise you on selling a business, it varies widely based on deal size, circumstances etc. so impossible to say from what you’ve said there.

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How much do boutiques pay on average.? What are the hours like? Is the actual work difficult? How much knowledge do I actually need to know about valuation?

https://mergersandinquisitions.com/top-investment-banks/

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I’m a junior at University of Michigan. I’m studying Nuclear Engineering. And I’m also considering adding either Finance (Ross school of business) as second major, or Financial mathematics. I’m leaning more towards financial mathematics. I’m highly interested in financial market, and I trade daily on the virtual portfolio.

What are you opinions on financial math degree in relation to Finance? Is it worth adding either of those as second degree?

I don’t think you’ll see a huge difference between the two. I also don’t know if you should necessarily take on a 2nd major – it might be too much work and simply adding a minor in one of those would give you a similar boost. Financial math would probably be better for public markets roles and anything more quantitative, finance would be better for transactional roles (IB/PE).

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Dear M&I,

How would the above S&T Template change from someone from a non-target school but with relevant financial experience i.e. interned at Research and GCM in bulge bracket now trying to join S&T.

Should more emphasis be made on extra curricular activities of a quantitative and analytical nature since I am from a non-traditional background?

If you already have that kind of experience then you can list it as is – you definitely don’t want to focus on activities if you have 2 highly relevant internships already.

Do focus on the more quantitative / analytical tasks in the internships though. You can still list activities but I wouldn’t go beyond 1 or 2 since you have the internships already.

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Hi Brian, what do u do if ur mock trading account is making losses? How can u spin that into something positive?

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I am not Brian but coming from a personal experience I would strongly recommend to start learning how to trade and understand whether you like fundamental or technical analysis. Then you need to learn and master your strategies and then understand market psychology. Also, trading journal helps a lot. You need to be able to reflect from your trades.

You can just avoid listing the results of your trades and instead explain your thinking behind them in detail. If they ask you how the trades have performed so far, just say they were fairly recent so it’s too soon to tell since you plan to hold for the long-term.

Thanks Anton and Brian, good stuff there and nice response =)

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One more question-

Saying that I do choose finance as my major, can you name any good public schools (for business) off the top of your head?

UC Berkeley, UCLA, Michigan, UVA, UNC all come to mind. More banking recruiting at the first 3.

Hello! Since you don’t email anymore, I’ll try to get in touch by these comments.

I’m currently an upperclassman in high school, and I had a couple of questions for you.

1. I’m interning at a wealth management firm next year (networked my way into that (: ). Do you have any advice on what to do when I’m there? My goal is to go into IB after college, but I’m quite happy to work there.

2. Is an Ivy League education completely necessary to get into investment banking? I want to go to the University of Western Ontario, which has a great reputation for its business school, but I hope that the banks don’t just focus on the Ivy League grads.

3. Any other advice on what to do when in high school? I downloaded your free program (modeling, etc) and I was surprised that I understood most of it! I want to just practice interview skills, network and get a good knowledge of the job. Any other tips?

Thank you for your time!

1. Network, get to know the markets, get referrals from other people, figure out if you like the work.

2. No but it makes it a lot easier. In Canada I think they mostly recruit at 5 schools – see: https://mergersandinquisitions.com/investment-banking-canada/

3. Not really, keep your options open and remember there is life outside of finance as well. You shouldn’t be dead-set on pursuing a certain path at this point.

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Your guest suggested emphasising mock/simulator trading. If you don’t have actual experience to point to, is it still a good idea to list this as a work experience entry? e.g. Choose companies that have actually been profitable in share price terms over the past 5 months or so, and expand showing that the investment would have been profitable in a real-life portfolio?

Sure, but I would still try to list some type of student activity / volunteer / other leadership experience as well just to show that you can work in teams and in formal roles in addition to trading on your own.

How would you rate the travel opportunities associated with Sales & Trading? Are there many opportunities, or are you primarily based in the one place?

For trading you are basically just in one place. Sales may involve more travel depending on what’s going on at the moment (e.g. a roadshow). Overall consulting is by far the most travel, followed by IB, then sales/trading.

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There is actually a fair amount of traveling when it comes to the busy season (springtime). BB Research Analysts are going to meet clients in various parts of the US and depending on where you are based you could be out 2-5 days a week.

Actually Brian, just to follow up:

In markets outside of the US, would you still imagine there to be a similar trend around those times too? While it is not the main focus for sales & trading, would you deem it of value to emphasise any international experience/language capability on the CV>

There may be, but generally for trading languages / international experiences don’t matter as much because everything is in English… for sales or research it can be more of an advantage (see the podcast we did on S&T). Not sure how frequent travel would be outside the US but perhaps someone else can answer.

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Great article!

I did an internship in a high-frequency trading firm. Since HFTs are normally quite secretive, the name is not know. I want to emphasize on my resume that it’s a HFT firm, how can I do this?

You can just add a 1-line description next to it or after the company name, or put the description in your summary sentence.

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Hey Brian, I read that there is a slim chance for people who already have a full-time job to get in S&T. Is this a dead-end for me or I still have a shot? What would be the best approach for someone like me who graduated 6 months ago in accountancy and is currently working in the backoffice in the pension industry. Is going back to school for a master in finance, MBA or something in a quantitative discipline a good way to revamp myself? Or the best approach would be to network heavily? Or is there another way out of this?

If it’s just 6 months of full-time work experience you still have a shot but less so at large banks. I would try:

1) Focusing on prop trading firms or other small places that don’t care as much about your current status.

2) Thinking about a Master’s in Finance program.

3) Still try networking and maybe even focus on something like sales roles and see if you can work your way into trading from there.

4) Think about back/middle office roles at banks – it’s more do-able to get into sales & trading from those than it is to get into IB.

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Few quick questions:

1) For “Quantitative Ability”, are we looking for only arithmetic/statistics-related stuff, or should I put down “Multivariable Calculus” in the Relevant Coursework section?

2) Is sports betting a good thing to put under interests, in the same vein as poker etc. Also, what happens if somebody asks how good you are at betting/poker. Is it okay to say “I’d rather not say”, or should you reveal your strategies etc. What if you’re too successful (not saying I personally am) – will the interviewer question your motivations as to why you want an S&T job when you’re making a nice income off poker/betting?

3) I’m in a frat, but I don’t have a leadership position. In that case, where do I list this in my resume?

4) How intense does your mock trading account have to be? I have a real trading account (which I’ve had for a year), but I’ve only held positions in 5 stocks, and never more than 3 at a time – I’ve also only sold/bought/fiddled with the allocation only 3 or 4 times. Is that enough?

5) Is knowing just the front page of the WSJ, MarketWatch etc. enough – how detailed are people expecting your market knowledge to be? I’d love to spend all my time looking at it, but I also have homework to contend with.

Okay, so it’s a bit more than a few quick questions, sorry! And thanks in advance, guys!

1) Anything math-related is good, so Calculus certainly counts.

2) Yes, it could be if you can explain your strategies properly. If asked, just say that you have some experience doing it and consider it a hobby to divert away questions of why you don’t do it full-time.

3) You should still list it at the bottom, either by itself or note one of your accomplishments.

4) Sure. Doesn’t have to be that intense, just be able to describe a couple of trades and investment ideas quite well.

5) We’re going to cover this in the next few parts of this series – there’s a specific list of indicators you should be familiar with. Not that many to know, but they will expect basic knowledge like interest rates, oil/gold prices, GDP growth, unemployment, etc.

Thanks so much for your reply! I think my resume’s solid now, and I’m on my way to be prepared for the interviews.

Glad to hear!

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Sample cover letter for Internship position at Citi

Sales and trading summer analyst.

Dear Hiring Manager:

This summer, I am highly interested in securing a position with Citi’s sales, trading and quantitative analysis program, specifically the sales and trading track. After review of the program description on __, I am intrigued by the opportunity for analysts to rotate across different desks while working alongside knowledgeable professionals. Currently, I am a sophomore at __ studying economics and I am confident that my skills would allow me to make valuable contributions to your team.

My experiences at Cornell demonstrate my passion for financial markets, my sound quantitative skills and my focus on achieving group objectives. As an associate with the __, I have increased my awareness of financial markets while taking advantage of opportunities to analyze securities and present stock pitches. Through demanding economics and business coursework, I have been able to enhance my attention to detail and develop dependable quantitative and analytical skills. In addition, my involvement on the business sub-team of the __ project team has taught me to take a team oriented approach to my work and consider the needs of the different sectors of a team.

As displayed on my resume, my strong academic record, problem solving skills and enthusiasm for finance reveal a drive which would allow me to be a successful summer analyst at Citi. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications when you visit __ on __. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely yours,

COMMENTS

  1. Sales and Trading Cover Letter: Example and Tips

    Sales and Trading Cover Letter Example. Below is the text for a pretty good (albeit slightly generic) sales and trading cover letter. Your aim should be to craft a cover letter that can be reasonably quickly edited, as you'll be applying to a number of different banks. Needless to say, the text of the cover letter below isn't perfectly ...

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  3. Sales Cover Letter Example and Template for 2024

    Using numerical data in your cover letter can show a hiring manager evidence of your skills. When you describe your previous sales experience, include data that shows your success in the role. This data can emphasize the value you might bring to the organization. 2. Relate your skills to the position and company values.

  4. Sales Cover Letter Tips, Templates, & Examples to Land Your Ideal Role

    Maybe you're not sure who will be reading your cover letter — but don't write " To whom it may concern, " " Dear hiring manager, " or any other generic title. With a little research, you can usually find the hiring manager's name. Let's say you're applying for the SMB Account Executive role at Joyfull. Google "SMB sales manager ...

  5. Sales Cover Letter Example & Tips

    4. Sales cover letter template. Finally, here's a sales cover letter template that you can easily copy and paste into Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Today's Date. Hiring Manager's Name. 123 Company Address. Company's City, State, Zip Code. (xxx) xxx-xxxx. [email protected].

  6. Sales Trader Cover Letter Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

    Sales Trader Cover Letter Sample. Dear Hiring Team, I am writing to apply for the Sales Trader position currently available with your company. As a highly organized and motivated professional with five years of experience in financial trading, I am confident that I am the ideal candidate for this role.

  7. Persuasive Sales Cover Letter Examples & Templates

    Here's a sales cover letter example from an account executive applicant: Awarded Top Sales Consultant in the territory for two straight quarters and numerous other recognition for helping drive the business, with over $70,000 worth of merchandise sold in the top-performing quarter at Best Buy.

  8. Sales Cover Letter Example for 2024 (w/ Templates!)

    Top ↑ Sales Cover Letter Example 5 Steps for the Perfect Sales Cover Letter #1. Put Contact Information in the Header #2. Address the Hiring Manager #3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement #4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details #5. Wrap It Up and Sign It 3 Essential Business Cover Letter Tips #1.

  9. Sales Cover Letter Examples, Templates and Writing Tips

    Let's check out two salesperson cover letter examples to start things off: 1. Sales Cover Letter Examples. Let's have a look at Melvin. Melvin's the oldest of the Rios siblings, 5-foot-9, and an expectant father. But—the lead-in to capture the director of sales' attention needs more.

  10. Sales Cover Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide [w/ Tips & Examples]

    Place your contact details at the top, adhering to the standard business letter format. Aim for a length of 3-5 paragraphs totaling, at the most, 400 words. Choose a professional, easy-to-read font such as Arial or Calibri. Stick to a font size between 10 and 12 for maximum readability.

  11. How to Write a Finance Cover Letter

    Middle Paragraphs: Two or three paragraphs to explain what attracted you to the type of work, why you're interested in working for the company, and why you think you'd be a good fit. Last paragraph: Thank the employer and say you're looking forward to receiving a response. 3. Beware the Generic Cover Letter.

  12. Sales Trader Cover Letter Examples and Templates

    Cover Letter Example (Text) Cloe Cori. (147) 674-5412. [email protected]. Dear Jonell Boase, I am writing to express my strong interest in the Sales Trader position at Goldman Sachs, as advertised. With a solid foundation in financial markets and a proven track record of success at J.P. Morgan, I am eager to bring my expertise and enthusiasm ...

  13. Sales Cover Letter: Sample and Complete Guide [20+ Examples]

    Ending strongly on a cover letter for retail sales positions is just as critical as an attention-grabbing start, like the perfect value proposition. Read this for more tips and examples: How to End a Cover Letter: Sample & Complete Guide [+20 Examples] 6. A Postscript to Seal the Deal. Wait, you said we were done!

  14. How to Write a Sales Cover Letter (With Examples)

    Be convincing and honest and reflect on your understanding of the requirements of the job. Related: How to write a sales associate resume (with examples) 4. Talk about why you're an ideal candidate. Once you've convinced the cover letter's recipient that you want the job, you can talk about why they ought to hire you.

  15. A Real Sales Cover Letter Example That Worked

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  16. Equity Sales Trader Cover Letter Sample

    555-555-5555. [email protected]. FWQ Financial, Ltd. New York City, NY, United States. 22/04/2020. Application for the position of Equity Sales Trader. Dear Recruiters, When reviewing your posting for the Equity Sales Trader job within FWQ Financial, Ltd. in New York City, NY on LinkedIn.com, I was pleased to discover that your requirements ...

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  19. How to Write an Outside Sales Representative Cover Letter

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  20. Sales Trader Cover Letter Example

    When writing a Sales Trader cover letter remember to present your relevant work history and skills according to the job you are applying for. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or have been in your career for a few years, exposing your relevant achievements in your cover letter can allow you to stand out and get that job interview. ...

  21. 5+ Trader Cover Letter Examples and Templates

    Sincerely, [Your Name] 2. Short Trader Cover Letter Sample. Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my interest in the Trader position at [Company Name]. With a strong passion for financial markets and a proven ability to execute trades, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of [Company Name].

  22. Goldman Sachs Cover Letter

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  23. Sales & Trading Resume Template

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  24. Citi Cover Letter

    Sales and Trading Summer Analyst. Dear Hiring Manager: This summer, I am highly interested in securing a position with Citi's sales, trading and quantitative analysis program, specifically the sales and trading track. After review of the program description on __, I am intrigued by the opportunity for analysts to rotate across different desks ...

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