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Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter as a trainee accountant can be an exciting yet challenging task. From crafting an engaging introduction, to highlighting your most relevant qualifications and experiences, it’s important to make sure your cover letter is well-written and stands out from the competition. This guide provides key tips and an example of a trainee accountant cover letter, to help you create the perfect cover letter that will get you noticed.

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Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to apply for the position of Trainee Accountant at [Company Name]. I am a highly organized and detail- oriented individual with a passion for numbers and working with data.

I recently graduated from [University Name] with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and have acquired a professional accounting designation. I have had two internships and a part- time job in an accounting department which have provided me with experience preparing financial statements, auditing, and analyzing financial data. I am also proficient in using popular accounting software such as Sage and QuickBooks.

I believe I have the necessary skills and experience to make a positive contribution to [Company Name]. My ability to process large amounts of data quickly and accurately will be an asset to the team. I am also confident that my strong problem- solving skills and natural aptitude for organization will help me succeed in this role.

I am a motivated and hardworking individual who will go above and beyond for every task I am given. I have a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration, which I believe will be beneficial in this role. I am excited to learn more about the position and believe I could be a great asset to your company.

I am confident that my qualifications and experience make me an excellent candidate for this position. I have enclosed my resume and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

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What should a Trainee Accountant cover letter include?

A cover letter is an important component of any job application; it introduces the applicant to the potential employer and provides a brief summary of their qualifications for the role. As a Trainee Accountant, your cover letter should include the following key points:

  • An introduction that explains why you are the ideal candidate for the position and why you are interested in the Trainee Accountant role.
  • A summary of your relevant qualifications and experience, such as accounting qualifications and any professional internships or certifications.
  • A discussion of key skills that you possess which are applicable to the Trainee Accountant role, such as advanced knowledge of accounting software, excellent problem- solving skills, and the ability to effectively communicate with clients and colleagues.
  • A brief explanation of your career goals and how they align with the position.
  • A closing statement that expresses your enthusiasm for the position and reiterates your interest in the Trainee Accountant role.

By including a carefully crafted cover letter with your job application, you can demonstrate to potential employers that you are the right candidate for the Trainee Accountant role.

Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Writing Tips

Writing a successful cover letter for a trainee accountant position should include a few key elements and strategies. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Research the company and role you are applying for. This will allow you to tailor the content of your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for.
  • Write a concise and professional opening statement that briefly explains why you are a good fit for the position.
  • Highlight your accounting skills, experience and qualifications. Be sure to mention any relevant coursework, experience or certifications you have obtained.
  • Explain why you are passionate about becoming a trainee accountant and how you can bring value to the company.
  • Provide clear examples of any related experience you have, such as working as an intern or volunteer.
  • Include any extra- curricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
  • Conclude your cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the role and reiterating your interest in the position.
  • Be sure to proofread and edit your cover letter before sending it out. This will help ensure that it is free of errors and mistakes.

Common mistakes to avoid when writing Trainee Accountant Cover letter

Writing a cover letter for a trainee accountant position is a challenge. You want to make sure you stand out from the competition and make a strong impression on the hiring manager. However, making mistakes in your cover letter can cost you the job. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing your trainee accountant cover letter:

  • Not Customizing Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be customized for each position. You should include specific details that demonstrate your knowledge and interest in the company. Taking the time to customize your cover letter will show the hiring manager that you are serious about the position and willing to go the extra mile.
  • Not Highlighting Your Relevant Qualifications: You should use your cover letter to highlight your qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the trainee accountant position. Make sure to include your education, professional experience, and any other relevant skills and qualifications that would make you stand out from other applicants.
  • Not Proofreading Your Cover Letter: Before submitting your cover letter, make sure to proofread it for any errors. Typos, grammar mistakes, and incorrect punctuation will make a poor impression on the hiring manager and can cost you the job. Make sure to triple check your cover letter before submitting it.
  • Not Providing Specific Examples: Instead of making general statements about your skills, provide specific examples to demonstrate how you have used your skills in the past. This will help the hiring manager visualize what you could bring to the role.
  • Not Following the Instructions: Make sure to read the job description carefully and follow all instructions. If the instructions ask you to submit your cover letter in a specific format, make sure to do so. Not following instructions can be an easy way to end up in the “no” pile.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your cover letter for a trainee accountant position stands out from the competition and makes

Key takeaways

Writing an impressive Trainee Accountant cover letter can increase your chances of getting a job. A good cover letter should be tailored to the job you’re applying for and highlight the experiences, qualifications and skills that make you the best candidate for the role. Here are the key takeaways for writing an impressive Trainee Accountant cover letter:

  • Research: Research the company you’re applying for and the role to make sure you’re a good fit. This will help you tailor your cover letter and make sure it’s relevant and compelling.
  • Show passion: Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and show that you’re passionate about the job and what you can bring to the company.
  • Highlight key skills: Showcase the skills and qualifications you have that make you the best candidate for the job.
  • Demonstrate experience: Showcase your experience and emphasize the qualities you have that make you the right person for the role.
  • Keep it concise: Your cover letter should be concise and to the point. Keep it to one page and don’t repeat information that’s in your resume.
  • Proofread: Always proofread your cover letter to make sure there are no spelling or grammar errors.

By following these key takeaways for writing an impressive Trainee Accountant cover letter, you’ll be able to make a great first impression and increase your chances of getting the job. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i write a cover letter for an trainee accountant job with no experience.

Writing a cover letter for an Trainee Accountant job when you have no experience can be a challenge. However, it is possible to make a great impression on potential employers by highlighting your enthusiasm for the role and explaining why you feel you would be a great fit even without experience. Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the Trainee Accountant role. Explain that even though you do not have any experience, you are eager to learn and will work hard to achieve success. Provide examples of related skills that you possess, such as an aptitude for numbers or a strong attention to detail. Finish your cover letter by reiterating your enthusiasm for the role and indicating that you would be a great fit.

2. How do I write a cover letter for an Trainee Accountant job experience?

When writing a cover letter for an Trainee Accountant job with experience, it is important to focus on the specific qualifications that make you a great candidate for the role. Begin your letter by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the Trainee Accountant job. Then, provide a brief summary of your relevant experience that is applicable to the job. Showcase the skills you’ve acquired in previous roles that would be beneficial for the position. Demonstrate your mastery of accounting concepts and your commitment to accuracy and efficiency. Finish your cover letter by reiterating your enthusiasm and offering to provide additional information if needed.

3. How can I highlight my accomplishments in Trainee Accountant cover letter?

One of the best ways to highlight your accomplishments in a Trainee Accountant cover letter is to provide clear examples of your work. Share any successes that you have had in previous roles, such as a high rate of accuracy in your financial reports or successful project completion. You can also mention any awards or recognition that you have received for your work. Additionally, include any relevant technical skills you have acquired in the field, such as knowledge of financial software or software to manage data. Finally, it’s important to emphasize how your qualifications make you a great fit for the position and how you can use your skills to contribute to the organization’s success.

In addition to this, be sure to check out our cover letter templates , cover letter formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

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Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Example

Boost your chances of getting hired & learn to perfect your next cover letter with this expertly drafted Trainee Accountant cover letter example. Download this cover letter example for free or revise it in our proven and tested cover letter maker.

Milan Šaržík — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

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Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Karina traczyk.

Dear Hiring Managers,

I am writing to express my interest in the Trainee Accountant position at Zarmey Consulting, Inc. in Melbourne, Australia. With a strong background in financial services and extensive field knowledge, I believe I am well-suited for this role.

During my tenure at Cobham Consulting, Ltd., I provided support to Senior Accountants through various tasks such as audit assignments, financial statement preparation, and record maintenance. I also actively participated in team meetings, calculated tax liabilities, and executed financial transactions.

My experience has honed my critical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, and analytical skills, all of which are essential for this position. With a degree in Accounting & Finance from Monash University and certification as a Financial Accountant, I am proficient in using important software programs like FreshBooks, Wave, Sage 50cloud, Xero, and Zoho Books.

I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to a dynamic company like yours that values growth and flexibility. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, Karina Traczyk

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.

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  • Writing your covering letter

What makes a great CV

Update History

Why is a covering letter important?

How to write a good covering letter.

  • What about a cover letter for a job that's not advertised?

Points to remember

Covering letters - top 10 crimes.

A cover letter should be brief, well written and highlight the main points why you are a good candidate – your key strengths, job-relevant skills, experience and knowledge.

A covering letter should summarise what’s in your CV and provide specific examples to support your ability to do the job. It should not introduce anything new that’s not in your CV. It is a good idea to think about what competencies the role is asking for in candidates and to make sure the covering letter (and your CV) highlights your capabilities in these areas.

Make sure you tailor your covering letter according to each job application rather than have a ‘one-size fits all’ letter. Many candidates do not spend enough time on their covering letter, so having a personalised, well-written covering letter will help you stand out from the crowd.

Including a covering letter with your CV can boost your chances of getting a reply.

The way you write about yourself, the layout of your letter as well as your grammar and attention to detail forms part of the impression a recruiter gains from your application. In fact, some recruiters can place more emphasis on your cover letter than your CV. This is because the way you write a covering letter can help tell an employer if you are articulate and have a good command of the English language or whether you demonstrate logical thinking or are organised with a good eye for detail. These are all very valuable qualities that most employers would want to see in any good quality candidate. So it is vital that you take care to produce a good covering letter to go along with your good CV.

A covering letter should be concise, clear and easy to read. It should be no more than one side of A4 paper and should include:

  • your name, full address and contact details to enable to recruiter to respond to you – hopefully inviting you for an interview.
  • a heading and an opening line to make it clear which job you're applying for (eg, 'In response to your advertisement in XXX magazine of ZZZ date for the role of XYZ, I write to enclose my CV for your consideration'.
  • an introductory paragraph about you / why you think you are right for the role that is being offered followed by bullet points or short statements relating to your skills, experience or capabilities for the role in question.
  • a few specific examples.
  • say when you are available to start (be as flexible as possible).

Please note that in some international locations, conventions regarding CV styles and covering letters are very different to the format we know in the UK. So if you are applying for a job outside the UK, please do your research regarding the accepted style and format of applications in the country you are applying to.

You can find a suggested covering letter structure at the end of this article.

How do I start and end a cover letter?

  • If you know the name of the person you need to send your application to, then you should address the letter to that person and begin the letter (eg, ‘Dear Mr Edwards’ and end it with ‘Yours sincerely’, Helen Smith).
  • If you don't know the name of the person, but have a job title, such as the HR Director, then you should address your covering letter to the HR Director and address them as ‘Dear Sir or Madam’. You should end this letter with ‘Yours faithfully’, Helen Smith.
  • Make sure to include a final sentence that ends positively, politely and looks ahead to the next stage, for example, 'I would be happy to provide further information at interview' or 'I thank you in advance for your consideration and look forward to hearing from you'.

What about a cover letter for a job that's not advertised?

If you are planning to send a speculative application (ie, applying to a prospective employer without knowing if they are actually recruiting or not), simply follow the same rules as mentioned above: concise, no more than one side of A4 paper, enthusiastic in tone and highlight your strengths.

One key difference however, is that because you’re not applying for a specific job advert or known vacancy, you will need to do some research about the organisation, any of their previous job adverts, the values of the company or the competencies they ask for from applicants and then tailor your letter accordingly.

Try to find out the name of the correct person or their job title to send you application to. Otherwise, use your common sense. If you are applying for a finance-based role (as an example), it is probably going to be someone in the finance team that you could send your speculative application to.

Unless asked, you should avoid sending your speculative application to the Managing Director or Chief Executive. In most companies, they are unlikely to be the correct person to receive your unsolicited mail.

  • A good covering letter is vital to support your CV.
  • It is a summary of your capabilities, qualities and your suitability for that specific job.
  • No more than one side of A4 paper – it is not an essay.
  • Keep it concise. Avoid jargon and don’t use five words if two will do.
  • Tailor your covering letter to each job application, rather than have a ‘one-size fits all’ approach.
  • Use action verbs.
  • It demonstrates your writing style (far better than your CV), so many employers will place just as much importance on your covering letter as what’s on your CV.
  • Make your letter easy to read for an employer. Content, grammar, spelling and layout are all vital – double check everything you write as spell check won’t pick up ‘from’ instead of ‘form’. Take time and care with your letter.
  • Relate your skills (eg, communicating, leadership, team working, problem-solving, resilience and self-motivation) to the job and the qualities or skills that the employer is looking for in candidates.
  • If you are emailing your application (CV and covering letter), then paste the content of the covering letter into the email body and attach the CV. If you attach both and don’t write anything in the body of the email, then it may be misidentified as spam.
  • If you are applying for a job in a country that requires a work permit or visa, you need to include whether you are eligible to work or whether you are looking for an employer to sponsor you.
  • Too long One employer received a covering letter that was just as long as the CV. Needless to say, the application went straight into the bin. Remember to keep it concise.
  • Too generic No attempt has been made to personalise the CV or covering letter. It is obvious to an employer when you have sent a standard letter rather than attempting to match your skills and strengths to those that the job or company is looking for. Remember to tailor your letter according to the skills and attributes that the employer is looking for.
  • Poor spelling Incorrect spelling (eg, ‘there’ and ‘their’ or ‘to’ and ‘too’), poor grammar and use of jargon. Visit the BBC Skillswise website for grammar and spelling tips.
  • Poorly formatted Inconsistent style or formatting (eg large bullet points in some places and smaller ones in other places or inconsistent use of full-stops, hyphens etc).
  • Poorly researched Wrong spelling of company name or person you are writing to. Worse still is leaving the name of a company you have previously applied for in the letter.
  • The show off Complicated, pretentious language and rambling structure.
  • The shouter Unless asked to do so, don’t write in upper case – it’s like shouting at an employer!
  • Not proof read Don’t just spell check your letter, make sure you carefully re-read and double check every word. Spell check won’t pick up the difference between ‘form’ and ‘from’ for example.
  • Not being positive Negativity, lack of confidence in your approach or suggestion of neediness (eg, ‘I don’t have any relevant experience but I’m sure with lots of mentoring I would be OK.’)
  • Remember where you're applying to For UK applications, don’t Americanise your letter. Many automatic spell check systems will change words to the American spelling (eg, ‘organize’ is American spelling vs ‘organise’ which is English spelling).

Read out this code to the operator.

Jobcentre Near Me Logo

Trainee Accountant Cover Letter

Martha Smith

123 Your Street

Your City, ST 12345

(123) 456-7890

[email protected]

4th September 2020

Becky Reader

CEO, Company Name

123 Address St 

Anytown, ST 12345

Dear Ms. Reader,

With great willingness, I am applying for the position as trainee accountant which was advertised on your company’s website. I believe that my education and skills-set make me a suitable candidate for this vacancy.

I have a strong background in accountancy, from financial accounting to tax accounting and from management accounting to auditing and management control. I very much enjoy my courses in the area of management accounting. I am seriously considering taking my certification to be a CMA.

In addition to my personal qualities, I have a solid educational foundation and a passion for accounting. I am extremely enthusiastic in learning more about your open position and how I can meet the needs of your organization. I look forward to hearing from you and welcome an opportunity for a more in-depth discussion on how I might be of service to your company.

Please find my attached CV which shows my experiences in detail.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and I look forward to hearing from you.

© 2024. Jobcentre Near Me . All rights reserved. Privacy Policy / Terms and Conditions  / Cookie Policy UK / Privacy Statement UK / Cookie Policy EU / Privacy Statement EU / Disclaimer

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Your CV may be a masterpiece of self-promotion, but who is going to read it if your email or covering letter fails to impress? See what our experts have to say

For job-hunters, emails offer a number of advantages over the handwritten or typed letters that traditionally used to accompany CVs in the post. They are easier to compose, they generally require less formality in content and tone, and they are much more immediately accessible to the recipient. But simplicity, informality and speed can have drawbacks. Unless you observe some straightforward rules, the CV in which you have invested so much time and effort may never be opened.

Emails are typically read much faster than letters – but if the recipient’s inbox has piled up with applications, he or she might be more prone to making snap judgments, simply to expedite the initial screening process. A neatly-composed, correction-free handwritten letter will always stand out from those that have been dashed off in a hurry – but with email, there is a more level playing field, and it is what you say that will primarily dictate how the recipient responds.

Mind your language

‘It’s usually OK to be a little less formal in an email,’ says Charlie Carnall, a director at recruiter Hays Accountancy & Finance. ‘However, that’s not a green light to be over-familiar. If you’re in any doubt about whether your tone might strike the wrong note, it’s better to err on the side of caution.’ Remember that the purpose of your email (or covering letter) is to get your CV opened and read. But if technology gives you the ability to fire off your CV to scores of employers, the downside is that those employers will be on the receiving end of hundreds of applications. Many will therefore raise the bar considerably – and if they are looking for reasons to reject (which, in most cases, takes far less time than to accept), your email must be tailored accordingly. Make it personal. Address the recipient by name, saying why you are emailing them. If you have been asked to quote a reference number, do so. Don’t fall into the trap of assuming that the person you are emailing has only one function, which is to sift through applications for a single solitary job. ‘They may well use the same address as they do for their regular email, or for applications for other vacancies,’ says Gert Nzimiro, a director at Reed Accounting. ‘If the recipient has to work out for themselves why you have emailed them because you’ve not taken the time to explain yourself – when an explanatory email takes just minutes – it might indicate that you can’t follow simple instructions, or that you don’t regard your potential employer’s request as sufficiently important to comply.’ Nor will taking short cuts – by typing the reference number into the subject field and attaching your CV – pass muster with most recipients. ‘There needs to be a sense of a human being behind the email,’ says Carnall. ‘If you were posting a printout of your CV, you wouldn’t just scribble a reference number at the top of the front page; you’d write or type a letter. Yes, it’s easier for recipients to open emails, and then open attachments – but doesn’t mean you should leave it to them to find out why you’re emailing them.’

Why not me?

Your email may only be given a cursory glance – so get straight down to business. Referring back to the requirements that you know about (or those you safely assume would be needed), summarise why you think you would be right for the job. ‘Making a direct reference to what the employer’s looking for shows that you’re taking the application seriously – instead of just sending what is obviously a template email,’ says Tomas Bergl, manager at recruiters Robert Half in the Czech Republic. ‘If you’re applying via a recruitment consultant, tailoring the email demonstrates that you’re genuinely interested in the opportunity with their client. That may well keep you at the forefront of your consultant’s mind when new jobs arise, which can only be a good thing.’ If the job specifically requires someone who is part-qualified, make it clear that you are studying ACCA and state how far advanced you are in your studies. And if you have passed all your exams first time so far, say so. ‘If the company sponsors its trainees through exams for professional qualifications, they may look favourably on you as someone who’s unlikely to cost them a fortune in re-sits,’ says Carnall. ‘If you’ve managed to pass your exams while holding down a demanding job, that’s even better.’ In a job market that increasingly sees candidates who resign receiving counter‑offers from their present employer, recruiters and their clients appreciate evidence that you are committed to changing jobs, not window-shopping in order to force up your salary. By saying why the job for which you are applying appeals to you, you are saying 'I really do like the sound of this opportunity'. According to Nzimiro, that counts considerably to those who decide who gets called in for interviews. ‘Motivation is a key factor for employers,’ he says. ‘They want reassurance that candidates in whom they plan to invest time interviewing are worthwhile prospects.’

If the recipient is hovering on the cusp of inviting you in for interview but isn’t yet certain, how you conclude your email can make an impact on their decision – and on your prospects of being invited to make your case in person. ‘Leave them in no uncertainty; make it clear that you can do the job, you want the job and that you’d be happy to attend an interview,’ says Carnall. Take care not to be overly demanding when signing off. Politely asking for confirmation of receipt by reply might not seem like a big ask – but multiplied by 10, or by 50 (or even more), and it becomes untenable. Some candidates ask for confirmation as a misguided strategy to strike up a matey dialogue with the recipient, in the hope that they might then receive favourable attention. ‘Unless you have good reason to suspect that your email has gone astray – for instance, if you receive an undeliverable message from the employer’s server – it’s best to leave well alone and wait for a reply,’ says Bergl. ‘Many organisations will have automated reply systems in place. But even if they don’t, or if you don’t receive an immediate reply, it’s better to hold back. Careful screening of emailed applications takes a lot of time and manpower.’ Once you have sent off your email, don’t forget to save it. Email may facilitate job-hunting in volumes that wouldn’t be humanly possible with handwritten letters – but that makes good housekeeping essential. ‘It strikes completely the wrong note if a candidate doesn’t appear to remember the job for which he or she has applied,’ says Nzimiro. ‘That initial spark of interest at the employer’s end can easily be snuffed out.’ Similarly, make sure you know which version of your CV you sent. If you have modified it to highlight specific experience or competencies, but you don’t remember the modification, you risk looking as if you have falsified your application, even if that is absolutely not the case. And if that happens over the interview desk, your careful preparation may come undone…

Putting pen to paper...

Thousands of people still like to send a printed CV off to recruiters and employers by regular post. If that includes you, ensure your application makes a good impression as soon as it emerges from the envelope. An easy read : only send a handwritten letter if your writing is legible – ask an impartial friend for their honest opinion; if they cannot read it, then busy recruiters and HR professionals with pressing demands on their time won’t give it a second glance. Plain and simple : stick to plain white or cream paper, and use dark blue or black ink; deviating from convention might make your application stand out – but for all the wrong reasons. Proof read ruthlessly : before you write your ‘proper’ version, write out what you plan to say in draft form, and read it back to yourself, making any necessary tweaks to spelling, grammar or vocabulary as you go along. Only when you are happy should you put pen to paper. Sign your name : even if you are sending a typed covering letter (which is perfectly acceptable in this day and age), signing your name on the printout is a nice touch that personalises your application. But take care not to smudge – allow the ink to dry and fold your letter so that your signature isn’t affected by creases in the paper. Take a copy : emails and letters typed on a PC can easily be saved, to be retrieved at a later date. Try to keep photocopies of any handwritten letters you send – if that is not possible, at least keep a record of the companies to which you have written, including notes about how you might have adjusted your standard wording to fit a specific job or organisation.

"It’s usually OK to be a little less formal in an email. However, that’s not a green light to be over-familiar. If you’re in any doubt about whether your tone might strike the wrong note, it’s better to err on the side of caution." Charlie Carnall, Hays Accountancy & Finance

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Trainee Chartered Accountant

Stop press....

We have filled all our vacancies for August 2024, we are now accepting applications for our August 2025 trainee intake.

Just Imagine...

Looking for a trainee accountant role? How about being part of an accountancy firm that puts a passion for business ahead of profits. A firm that genuinely cares.

If so, HURST could be the firm for you.

You’ll be wondering why we’re different to other leading firms in the UK… and why you should consider forging your future career with HURST.

Headquartered in South Manchester, our 120-strong team has been supporting the ambitions of the North West’s most admired organisations for the past four decades.

But we go beyond the world of accountancy, and it’s that extra mile and additional insight that truly helps our clients to thrive. Whilst providing the services you’d expect of any leading practice, we also deliver the strategic and visionary guidance you wouldn’t expect from anyone other than HURST.

But it’s not just about the leading technical competency you’ll find amongst your colleagues. Or the fact that you’ll have the freedom to make your mark with many of the North West’s most admired brands. It’s the sense of ownership you’ll feel. And the fact you’ll be surrounded with like-minded teammates that are as friendly as they are forward-thinking.

Your future starts here

Your first step towards a career at HURST is through our accountancy training scheme (ICAEW/ACCA). Whether you are a graduate or a school leaver, we are looking for high calibre audit trainees to join the HURST Business Services team for our 2025 intake.

What you get from HURST

For graduates, we will put you through a paid Level 7 Apprenticeship Programme, over four years and you will be exam-qualified with the ICAEW/ACCA in three years.

For school leavers, we will provide paid leave for study and examinations, that will lead to the same qualifications as though you had graduated from university, in a similar time frame. You will also become a certified ICAEW/ACCA member.

As a part of your HURST trainee journey, once qualified you will be provided with a mentor and tailored career plan, which could include secondments to other teams within the firm and overseas secondments to the US, Australia and Europe.

As well offering support with tuition and professional qualifications, we also provide you with a wide range of benefits, as expected from a leading employer.

You’ll never feel like a ‘junior’ member of the team with HURST. In fact, the ambition, ideas and energy of trainees is the lifeblood of our business. That’s why we give our people the trust and freedom to make their mark, as we guide them towards becoming qualified – and far, far beyond.

The Trainee Accountant Scheme

Our scheme is designed to give you an idea of what it’s like to be a professional qualified accountant at HURST. As a Trainee at HURST, you will be working with Partners and Managers on a range of exciting assignments with entrepreneurial clients mainly throughout the Northwest, but increasingly across the UK. Through your work, you will acquire the core audit, accountancy and tax knowledge that underpins the qualification. Watch this short video below to learn more about being a trainee chartered accountant at HURST.

video of trainee accountant

What you'll need to succeed

Our trainee accountant scheme is open to college leavers and university graduates alike.

  • You must have 3 A-Levels or equivalent, and, if a university graduate, a minimum of a 2:2 degree.
  • We accept applications from relevant and non-relevant disciplines.
  • We welcome applicants seeking to make a career change.

At HURST, we look at more than just your academic results. All successful applicants attend an induction that provides a look into HURST, our practices, our strategy and our culture. You will also receive practical skills-based training and key insight into current accounting and tax issues throughout the duration of the scheme. We will be considering your strengths and achievements alongside a number of other metrics to ensure that you have the skills to succeed at HURST.

As an equal opportunity’s employer, HURST is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership.

We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join HURST.

The application process

Successful candidates will be invited to one of our trainee assessment days, which are held in our Stockport office. Candidates will be shortlisted throughout the day, and successful candidates from the morning will then be asked to stay for an interview in the afternoon.

What you need to do now

If you’d like to join us at HURST, please click apply now in the box towards the top left, with an up-to-date CV and a short cover letter explaining why you feel HURST would be the right fit for you and what you can bring to the firm. If you require any assistance, please email  [email protected] .

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Call 0161 477 2474 or send us a message online.

Get in touch

Call 0161 477 2474 [email protected]

StandOut CV

  • Trainee accountant CV example

Andrew Fennell photo

If you’re looking to secure a place on an accounting course, your first port of call is to create an interview-winning CV.

A well-written and tailored CV will allow you to land a spot on the best training courses and get your foot in the door to a fulfilling and lucrative career.

This complete guide, which includes an example trainee accountant CV, covers everything you need to know to secure a place.

Guide contents

  • Structuring and formatting your CV
  • Writing your CV profile
  • Detailing work experience
  • Your education
  • Skills required for your trainee accountant CV

CV templates 

Trainee accountant CV example

Trainee Accountant CV-1

The example CV above gives you an idea of how your finished CV should look, and the type of information  it should contain. The following guide will explain how to create your own wining CV.

CV builder

Trainee accountant CV structure & format

First impressions count, so a sloppy, disorganised and difficult-to-read CV won’t do you any favours.

Instead, perfect the  format and structure of your CV by working to a pre-defined structure and applying some simple formatting tricks to aid readability.

Don’t underestimate the importance of this step; if your CV lacks readability, your written content won’t be able to shine through.

CV structure

Formatting Tips

  • Length:  Recruiters will be immediately put off by lengthy CVs – with hundreds of applications to read through, they simply don’t have the time! Grabbing their attention with a short, snappy and highly relevant CV is far more likely to lead to success. Aim for two sides of A4 or less.
  • Readability: Help out time-strapped recruiters by formatting your CV for easy reading. Using lots of bullet points and lists will help them to skim through your info, while clearly formatted headings will allow them to navigate towards the content that is most useful to them.
  • Design:  It’s generally best to stick to a simple CV design, as funky or elaborate designs rarely add any value to your application. A clear, modern font and a subtle colour scheme work perfectly and allow your skills, experience and achievements to speak for themselves.
  • Avoid:  Ditch logos, images or profile photos. Not only do they take up valuable space, but they may even distract recruiters from your important written content.

Structuring your CV

Break up your CV content into the following key sections:

  • Name and contact details – Place them at the top of your CV, so that employers can easily get in touch.
  • CV personal statement  – A punchy sales pitch of your key experience, skills and achievements to reel readers in.
  • Core skills section – A bullet-pointed snapshot of your abilities.
  • Work experience – A well-structured list of your relevant work experience.
  • Education – An overview of any relevant qualifications or professional training you have.
  • Hobbies and interests – A short description of any relevant hobbies or interests (optional).

Next, I’ll talk you through what to include  in each of the CV sections above.

CV Contact Details

Contact details

Write your contact details in the top corner of your CV, so that they’re easy to find but don’t take up too much space.

You only need to list your basic details, such as your:

  • Mobile number
  • Email address
  • Location – Don’t list your full address. Just share your town or city, such as ‘Chester’ or ‘Coventry’.
  • LinkedIn profile (if you have one) – Make sure it’s professional and up-to-date.

Trainee accountant CV Profile

Your personal statement (or  CV profile , for more experienced applicants) provides a brief overview of your skills, abilities and suitability for a position.

It’s ideal for busy recruiters and hiring managers, who don’t want to waste time reading unsuitable applications.

Think of it as your personal sales pitch. You’ve got just a few lines to sell yourself and prove you’re a great match for the job – make it count!

CV profile

Tips to consider when creating your personal statement:

  • Avoid clichés:  If your CV is riddled with clichès like ‘hardworking and determined results-driven graduate’ , hit that delete button. Phrases like these are like a broken record to recruiters, who read them countless times per day. Hard facts, skills, knowledge and results are sure to yield far better results.
  • Tailor it:  No matter how much time you put into your personal statement, it won’t impress if it’s irrelevant to the job you’re applying for. Before you start writing, make a list of the skills, knowledge and experience your target employer is looking for. Then, make sure to mention them in your CV profile and throughout the rest of your application.
  • Keep it short and snappy: The best CV personal statements are short, sharp and highly relevant to the target role. For this reason, it’s best to write 8-15 lines of high-level information, as anything over might be missed.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

What to include in your trainee accountant CV profile?

  • Qualifications:  Provide a summary of your education, such as your A-Levels and degree(s). Make sure to highlight any maths or accounting qualifications and their grades, in particular. If applicable, you can discuss relevant modules, assignments and exams in more detail; showcasing the skills and knowledge you gained during your studies.
  • Relevant experience: Whether it was a short internship, a placement, a voluntary role or a full-time job, highlight any relevant experience you’ve gained. This doesn’t necessarily have to be directly related to accounting — anything which shows your analytical, numerical, financial and business acumen is worth highlighting.
  • Skills:  Take a look at the course/role description and pinpoint the skills, knowledge and qualities they’re looking for. Then, try to showcase how you fit these criteria.
  • Career goals + motives:  Briefly discuss why you’re applying for the trainee accountant roles, aiming to showcase your motivations and interests in the sector.

Core skills section

In addition to your CV profile, your core skills section provides an easily digestible snapshot of your skills.

As trainee accountant jobs might receive a huge pile of applications, this is a great way to stand out and show off your suitability for the role.

It should be made up of 2-3 columns of bullet points and be made up of skills that are highly relevant to the job of an accountant.

CV core skills

Work experience/Career history

Recruiters will be itching to know more about your relevant experience by now.

Kickstart this section with your most recent (or current) position, and work your way back through your experience.

You can include internships, placements, work experience, part-time jobs and freelance work, too.

Work experience

Structuring your roles

Whilst writing your CV, it’s essential to look at it in the eyes of a recruiter.

If they’re met with giant blocks of text which are impossible to navigate, they might skip onto the next CV.

Instead, make use of the 3-step structure, as shown below:

Role descriptions

Kickstart with a brief summary of your role as a whole, as well as the type of company you worked for.

“Worked as an assistant to a team of accountants; assessing, reviewing and filing tax returns for a range of small businesses and small traders.”

Key responsibilities

Next up, you should write a short and snappy list of your day-to-day duties within the job.

Recruiters are most interested in your sector skills and knowledge, so highlight these wherever possible.

  • Shadowed accountants as they prepared tax returns and worked out taxes owed.
  • Helped accountants develop budgets using periodic reports; assisted with budget maintenance and analysis.

Key achievements

Finish off by showcasing 1-3 key achievements made within the role.

This could be anything that had a positive effect on your company, clients or customers, such as saving time or money, receiving exemplary feedback or an award or increasing revenue.

  • Identified cost-saving systems and processes, which saved the company 15% annually.

In your education section, make any maths, accounting or finance degrees , qualifications or training a focal point.

As well as mentioning the name of the organisation, qualification titles and dates of study, you should showcase any particularly relevant modules, assignments or projects.

Additionally, if you have room, you can provide a brief overview of your academic background, such as A-Levels and GCSEs.

Interests and hobbies

The hobbies and interests CV section isn’t mandatory, so don’t worry if you’re out of room by this point.

However, if you have an interesting hobby or interest that could support a recruiter’s decision making, you might want to add them.

Be careful what you include though. Consider hobbies that exhibit skills that are required for roles as an accountant.

But generic hobbies like ‘watching TV’ won’t impress recruiters, so you’re best off saving the space for other CV sections.

Essential skills for your trainee accountant CV

Remember to tailor your skills to those listed in the job description. However, employers will generally expect trainee accountant applicants to possess:

Numerical skills – You’ll need to prove an aptitude for numbers and the ability to make calculations and work out formulas without trouble.

Analytical skills – Strong analytical abilities are needed for all accountancy roles, so try to showcase how you’ve used analysis and critical thinking in your studies or work experience.

IT skills –   Make sure to highlight any computer and/or accountancy software you’ve used, as using a range of programmes and software will be a part of your day-to-day role.

Communication skills –  You’ll likely be part of a team and working with various clients, so being a confident communicator is a must.

Writing your trainee accountant CV

Creating a strong trainee accountant CV requires a blend of punchy content and considered structure and formatting.

By creating a punchy personal statement and core skills list, you’ll be able to hook recruiter’s attention and ensure your CV gets read.

Remember that research and relevance is the key to a good CV, so research your target roles before you start writing and pack your CV with relevant skills.

Best of luck with your next application!

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Accounts Assistant Cover Letter Template

  • Cover Letters

Accounts Assistant

If you’re looking to apply for a range of  Accountancy jobs , we can help get your cover letter ready with our Accounts Assistant cover letter template. Simply follow the examples provided.

If you also need to go over the basics of cover letter writing, be sure to check out our guide on  how to write the perfect cover letter .

Your name Your address Hiring manager’s name Company name Company address

Dear ( use hiring manager’s full name if you know it, if not, use sir/madam ) ,

I am writing to apply for the role of Accounts Assistant, currently being advertised on  Fish4.co.uk . Please find enclosed a copy of my CV.

I have valuable experience when it comes to working with accounts and financial matters. In my previous role, I was required to create spreadsheets, deal with customer and employee queries, answer the telephone and manage the petty cash, ensuring that it balances, all of which I carried out with ease and enthusiasm. These skills, coupled with my excellent organisational and communication skills, I strongly believe make me an excellent candidate for the position of Account Assistant.

I am a confident and focused individual with a great attention to detail which is vital to this role. My polite and patient disposition means that I work well under pressure as well as in a team. I have a genuine interest in business and finance and am always looking to expand my knowledge and skills within this sector, particularly at a company with a great reputation like ( insert company name ).

Thank you very much for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you,

Yours sincerely,

Your name Contact phone number

Related links

  • How to Become an Accountant
  • 4 Steps to Becoming an Accountant
  • How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

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  1. Best Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Example for 2023

    Here are the key takeaways for writing an impressive Trainee Accountant cover letter: Research: Research the company you're applying for and the role to make sure you're a good fit. This will help you tailor your cover letter and make sure it's relevant and compelling. Show passion: Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and the company ...

  2. How To Write an Accountant Cover Letter (With Examples)

    Identify the name of the person who receives your cover letter, or that of the recruiter. 2. Address the recipient by name. Finding the name of the recipient of your cover letter allows you to address them by it. By doing so, you show the reader that you're serious about the position and diligent.

  3. Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Examples & Samples for 2024

    Free Trainee Accountant cover letter example. Dear Mr. Saunders, I read the online posting for Trainee Accountant with Seamless Accounting Services published on TopFinancialJobs.com with great excitement. I am interested in applying for this position with your company as I believe my experience aligns well with the requirements you seek.

  4. How to write an accounting graduate cover letter (With ...

    1. Write a header. At the top left-hand side of your cover letter, write a header containing your name, phone number and email. If you're posting a hard copy of the letter, you may also include your physical address. Most employers prefer electronic copies, and in this case, you don't need to include your physical address.

  5. Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Example

    555-555-5555. [email protected]. Zarmey Consulting, Inc. Melbourne, Australia. 09/11/2019. Application for the position of Trainee Accountant. Dear Hiring Managers, With a demonstrated experience in financial services and well-developed field knowledge, I am pleased to be applying for the Trainee Accountant job at Zarmey Consulting, Inc. in ...

  6. Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Example

    Here is the Skilled Trainee Accountant Cover Letter Example: Dear Ms. Sample, It is with great enthusiasm that I write you to apply for the posting of Trainee Accountant at your firm. I am a graduate of the Bachelor of Commerce program at Framingham State University. My area of concentration was finance. Upon graduation I articled at Allegis ...

  7. Trainee Accountant CV Example & Tips for Your Career

    Trainee Accountant. NumberCrunch UK Ltd., London. July 2022-Present . Key Qualifications & Responsibilities. ... Cover letter: Elevate your application with a personalised cover letter outlining your distinct qualifications and eager anticipation to contribute to the company. Begin with a succinct overview of your experience, followed by a ...

  8. Accounting Cover Letter: Sample & Ready-To-Use Templates

    An accountant cover letter template for you to copy, adjust, and prepare in only 15 minutes. Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now. Create your cover letter now.

  9. Writing your covering letter

    Relate your skills (eg, communicating, leadership, team working, problem-solving, resilience and self-motivation) to the job and the qualities or skills that the employer is looking for in candidates. If you are emailing your application (CV and covering letter), then paste the content of the covering letter into the email body and attach the CV.

  10. Accounting cover letter tips and example

    Highlight your most relevant experience. Use your cover letter to provide choice examples of your most relevant work, but avoid the temptation to list all your skills - that's the job of your CV. Read the job ad and shortlist the skills and experience that'll be most important to the hiring manager, then summarise these in plain English.

  11. Accountant Cover Letter Examples for a Job in Accounting

    Read this for more examples: How to End a Cover Letter [20+ Sign Off Examples] 6. A Postscript to Seal the Deal. I know I said that was all, but let me briefly sell you this. Adding a P.S. isn't necessary, but it's a great hack when writing an investment banking cover letter or financial analyst cover letter: P.S.

  12. How to write an accountant trainee CV

    Learning how to write an accountant trainee CV that's both compelling and competent improves your chances of securing placement on a course or internship. Steps for writing a trainee CV include: 1. Get the structure right. By structuring your CV properly, you include all relevant information neatly and logically.

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    Yours sincerely (if you know their name) / Yours faithfully (if you do not know their name) Your name. Contact phone number. In order to be considered for accountancy and finance jobs, you will need a cover letter which briefly explains why you are the perfect candidate for the job. Our accountancy cover letter template can help you get started.

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