Bookkeeper Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Students, interns, or experienced professionals — everybody needs a bookkeeper cover letter that speaks volumes about what makes them the perfect job candidate. Our guide brings you all the best writing tips, customizable templates, authentic cover letter samples, and plenty of examples to help you make your job application impossible to resist. Let's begin!
Julia Mlcuchova — Career Writer
Julia Mlcuchova
Career Writer
Last updated: Sept. 9, 2024
Average: 4.9 (193 votes)
Junior Financial Controller Cover Letter
Created with Kickresume

Average: 4.9 (193 votes)

Despite its conciseness, a truly great bookkeeper cover letter manages to say a lot about you as a potential employee. Whether it's your skills at tracking income and expenses, managing payroll, or preparing financial reports, your cover letter has to tell it all!

Let's dive into the nuts and bolts of crafting the perfect cover letter. From helpful tips to tried-and-true templates, this guide will walk you through each step. We’ll explore cover letter examples and real-life samples that highlight key strengths, so you can effectively showcase your expertise.

Junior Financial Controller Cover Letter
Junior Financial Controller Cover Letter
Finance Intern Cover Letter Example
Finance Intern Cover Letter Example
Trust Accountant Cover Letter Example
Trust Accountant Cover Letter Example
See more examples like these

Keep on reading and find out all about:

  • Reviewing authentic bookkeeper cover letter samples 
  • Deciding how to format your bookkeeper cover letter 
  • Crafting informative bookkeeper cover letter header 
  • Making your bookkeeper cover letter headline pop
  • Personalizing the greeting of your bookkeeper cover letter 
  • Hooking the reader with your bookkeeper cover letter introduction
  • Flashing out your bookkeeping skills and accomplishments
  • Weaving powerful action verbs into your bookkeeper cover letter
  • Making a lasting impression with your bookkeeper cover letter closing statement 
  • Dodging the most common cover letter mistakes
  • Pairing your bookkeeper cover letter with a matching resume
  • Average salary and job outlook for bookkeepers 
  • Accessing useful resources for job-seeking bookkeepers 

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

Bookkeeper cover letter sample

Bookkeeper Cover Letter Sample
Created with Kickresume

Why does this cover letter example work?

  • Mentioning relevant education and certification: Writing about their Certified Public Bookkeeper certification and a bachelor's degree in Accounting & Finance from a respected institution like Sorbonne University is a big plus. Both of these qualifications are relevant and they also strengthen the applicant's credibility. Plus this also indicates they have the formal education and knowledge necessary for the job.
  • Software proficiency: The applicant also highlights proficiency in specific software programs like QuickBooks, Xero, Netsuite, and FinancialForce Accounting. By listing specific tools (which are probably mentioned in the job posting), they show that they are tech-savvy and can work with the tools required for the position. 

What could be improved?

  • Personalized greeting: The letter opens with "Dear Hiring Manager," which is perfectly fine. However, the greeting could be improved significantly with a little bit of personalization. Taking the extra step to find the name of the hiring manager would make a much stronger impression. Because a personalized greeting shows attention to detail and genuine interest in the company. 
  • Inclusion of quantifiable data: While this sample mentions relevant responsibilities like managing accounts payable/receivable and processing payroll, it lacks any quantifiable data to support these claims. For example, instead of simply saying they “improved efficiency,” the applicant could write something like “reduced payroll processing time by 20%.” Including specific numbers gives the hiring manager a clearer idea of the candidate’s impact.

Budget analyst cover letter sample

Budget Analyst Cover Letter Sample
Created with Kickresume

Why does this cover letter example work?

  • Easy-to-spot header: The applicant’s name, contact details, and the company information are all clearly laid out at the left side of the cover letter. This makes it super easy for the hiring manager to see how to get in touch with the candidate. Plus, a well-organized and informative header helps the cover letter look polished and professional right from the start.
  • Detailing relevant work experience: The candidate also does a great job of highlighting specific responsibilities and achievements from their previous roles. Managing a €25 million budget and working on revenue analysis and expense management are both more than relevant to a Budget Analyst role. This shows the hiring manager that they have the experience to handle the job’s responsibilities.

What could be improved?

  • Eye-catching headline: This headline is quite generic and lacks a strong hook. Something a bit more engaging and pacific could make a bigger impact. Instead of “Application for the position of Budget Analyst,” the candidate could try something like, “Certified Budget Specialist with 3+ Years of Experience and a Proven Track Record of Managing €25 Million Budget.” 
  • Use of action verbs: While this sample mentions relevant tasks, the use of action verbs would make the writing more dynamic and engaging. Instead of “I was responsible for” or “focused on,” the applicant could use verbs like “led,” “implemented,” “optimized,” or “analyzed.” These would add a little more energy to the descriptions and show the candidate as someone who's proactive and driven.

Revenue accountant cover letter example

Revenue Accountant Cover Letter Example
Created with Kickresume

Why does this cover letter example work?

  • Highlighting recognition for a major achievement: Including a notable achievement on your cover letter is a great move: being awarded Employee of the Year for reducing accounting expenses by 15% in one year. This isn’t just a nice pat on the back — it’s a concrete, quantifiable achievement that shows the applicant is capable of delivering tangible results.
  • Mentioning relevant soft skills: Along with technical expertise, the candidate also emphasizes valuable soft skills like strong analytical abilities, teamwork, and composure under pressure. These are all important qualities in a revenue accountant and demonstrate that they bring more than just technical knowledge to the table.

What could be improved?

  • More memorable conclusion: The conclusion is polite but incomplete. The candidate could create a stronger closing statement by reiterating their excitement for the position and including a clear call to action. For example, something like: “I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to PPO International and would love the chance to discuss how my background can benefit your team. Please feel free to reach me at [phone number] or [email address] to set up an interview at your earliest convenience.”
  • Appealing to company values: While the candidate shows excitement for the role, they don’t mention anything specific about PPO International, Inc. or why they want to work there. Adding a sentence or two about the company’s values, culture, or recent accomplishments would show the applicant has done their homework and is genuinely interested in working for this specific organization.

1. How to format your bookkeeper cover letter to impress

As someone who makes a living by keeping information organized and accessible, you can appreciate the power of good formatting

Just like a well-maintained ledger, a neatly formatted cover letter not only looks professional but also makes it easier for the reader to find the key points about you. On the flip side, a cluttered, messy cover letter can give off the wrong impression, even if you have all the right skills. 

So, if you want to make your cover letter look sharp and clean, follow our practical formatting tips: 

  • Choose a reader-friendly font: Stick with a clean, easy-to-read font like Arial or Times New Roman, size 11 or 12. No need for fancy fonts or wild colors. Black text on a white background is always a safe bet. 
  • Give your letter room to breathe: A cover letter full of tightly packed text can feel overwhelming. Make sure to leave enough space between paragraphs, and don’t be afraid to use margins (1 inch) wisely. White space makes the letter more inviting and easier to read. 
  • Keep it aligned and polished: For a clean look, align your text to the left. It’s easier to read, and it keeps everything looking uniform. Centering or justifying your text can create awkward spacing and make the letter feel off-balance. Left alignment is your safest bet.
  • Follow the tried-and-true blueprint: Your cover letter should be broken down into clear sections. The conventional cover letter format includes: a header, an introduction, 2-4 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. This tried-and-tested structure enables employers to quickly find the information they're looking for.
  • Stay concise — one page only: It might be tempting to list every single thing you've done, but keep it concise, one page max. Hiring managers are busy, and they appreciate brevity. Focus on the most relevant details — think quality over quantity.
  • Spotlight your strengths with bullet points: If you have a few standout accomplishments, throw them in a bulleted list. This is a great way to highlight key points without overloading the text. Plus, bullet points break up the paragraphs, making it visually easier to digest. 
  • Set the right tone: The way you sound on paper matters. Since you’re applying for a bookkeeper position, you’ll want to strike a balance between professionalism and approachability. Also, show a little personality! Mention why you enjoy bookkeeping or what excites you about the role you’re applying for. 

If formatting isn't something you enjoy, you can simply pick any of our professionally designed cover letter templates and gain more time to focus on the content! 

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2. How to craft an informative bookkeeper cover letter header

Before recruiters dive into the main body of your cover letter, the first thing they notice is your header!

The cover letter header consists of a few lines of text and usually sits at the very top of the document. However, in some more creative cover letter designs, the header can be positioned off to the side for a unique look.

No matter where you place it, the purpose of the cover letter header is always the same: to clearly display your contact information and that of the recipient. Here's a more detailed breakdown: 

1. Your contact information

  • Your name
  • Job title 
  • Phone number
  • Email address
  • Link to your LinkedIn profile (if applicable) 

2. The recipient’s details

  • Their full name
  • Company name
  • Company address

Bad example of a bookkeeper cover letter header

Richard Price, 
456-7890 | ric209@gmail.com 

Hiring Manager

Why is this example so ineffective? Firstly, the email address doesn't look professional at all. Next, the phone number is incomplete — it should include the area code. Finally, the recipient information is pretty much absent. You should include the company’s address and ideally the name of the hiring manager if you have it.

Good example of a bookkeeper cover letter header

Richard Price, 
(123) 456-7890 | richard.price@gmail.com | linkedin.com/in/richard-price

Alexa White, Hiring Manager 
Happy Pets 
123 Doggo Lane, Paw City, NY 12345

What makes this example so much better? Unlike the previous example, this one includes all the necessary information in the correct format—from the phone number with an area code to a professional-sounding email address. Plus, including the hiring manager’s name and the company's address completes the header nicely.

Getting the header right might seem like a small thing, but it really sets you up for success. It’s the first thing recruiters look at, so make sure your info is clear, correct, and looks polished.

3. How to make your bookkeeper cover letter headline pop

Another thing that shouldn't be missing from your cover letter is an attention-grabbing headline. 

It’s usually a single sentence that sits right between your header and greeting. It should be short, punchy, and to the point — something that shows the reader why they should hire you right from the get-go. 

But why is a headline essential?

Think about it this way: when you’re scrolling through the latest news articles, you only stop to read the ones with headlines that grab your attention. That’s exactly what hiring managers do as well. They are busy people who need to sift through hundreds of job applications daily, so you need to catch their eye before they even get to the main body of your cover letter. 

Here's how to make your headline pop:

  • Keep it straightforward: Your headline should be concise and direct. Skip any filler or extra words.
  • Keep it job-focused: Make sure your headline is customized for the specific role you’re going after. Highlight the key abilities and experiences the employer is seeking in a candidate.
  • Keep it engaging: Use powerful language that grabs the reader’s attention. You want your headline to stand out and encourage the hiring manager to read on.
  • Keep it detailed: Be clear about what you bring to the table. A generic headline won't help you stand out, but one that emphasizes your unique qualities and strengths will.

Bad example of a bookkeeper cover letter headline

Seeking a Job in Bookkeeping

What's wrong with this headline? All its issues boil down to its vagueness and generality. This headline doesn’t offer any insights into the candidate’s strengths or qualifications that would make them stand out from other applicants. Hiring managers might skip over this because it doesn't give them a reason to read further.

Good example of a bookkeeper cover letter headline

Certified Bookkeeper with a Proven Record of Cutting Monthly Expenses by 15%

Why does this example work so much better? Who wouldn't want to hire a bookkeeper who can help them save money? By mentioning a specific achievement, this example states the applicant's value in a clear language. Plus, mentioning their certification adds to the credibility of the applicant's experience.

Keep in mind that your headline doesn’t have to be fancy, but it should get straight to the heart of why you're the perfect candidate. This way, recruiters instantly know how you can support the success of their business before even reading the rest of your letter!

Bookkeeper cover letter headline examples

4. How to personalize the greeting of your bookkeeper cover letter 

One of the key advantages of sending a cover letter is its ability to connect with the hiring manager on a more personal level

The hiring process, at least in its initial phases, can feel a little too impersonal. If you want to break the ice and make your communication less stiff, you'll want to address the recipient of your cover letter directly by their name

Checking these sources can help you find out who's likely going to read your job application: 

  • The job posting
  • The employer’s website ("About Us" or "Team" pages)
  • LinkedIn
  • Contacting the employer 

Was your search a success? In that case all you need to do now is formulate your salutation like so: 

Examples of personalized greetings include

  • Dear Ms. White,
  • Dear Ms. Alexa White, 
  • Dear Hiring Manager Ms. White, 

Sometimes, no matter how much digging you do, you just can’t find the hiring manager’s name anywhere. In that case, it’s okay to use a more general greeting, but try to avoid overused phrases like “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, you can draw inspiration from these examples: 

Polite and professional greeting examples

  • Dear Hiring Manager,
  • Dear [Department] Team,
  • Dear [Company Name] Recruitment Team,

Taking the time to find the hiring manager’s name and personalize your greeting can go a long way. It’s one of those little details that shows the reader you’re not just sending out the same cover letter to every job posting you see. It also demonstrates that you care about the opportunity enough to put in a bit of extra effort.

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5. How to hook the reader with your bookkeeper cover letter introduction

We’ll continue with the theme of attention-grabbing for a little while because your cover letter introduction serves a similar purpose. 

The quality of the opening sentences in your cover letter can be the difference between having it read or tossed aside. A catchy headline sets a high bar and you need to do your best to keep the momentum going. 

For inspiration, you can make you introduction compelling by including some (or all) of these elements: 

  • Brief overview of your work history
  • Your most significant accomplishment
  • Rundown of your professional goals
  • Any significant qualifications or skills 
  • Display of your enthusiasm for the job (and company)
  • Impactful referral (if possible)

PRO TIP: If you're switching careers, it’s important to address this and explain your reasons for the switch in the introductory paragraph. The hiring manager will notice the change as soon as they review your resume, so take the matter into your own hands and frame the change in a positive light. 

To prove our point, let's look at two bookkeeper cover letter introduction examples and see which one works better: 

Bad example of a bookkeeper cover letter introduction

I am applying for the bookkeeper position at your company. I have experience in bookkeeping and think I would be a good fit for the job. I look forward to discussing my qualifications with you.

Why does this introduction fall flat? This introduction doesn’t do much to grab attention. It’s super generic and doesn’t mention any standout skills or achievements. It also lacks enthusiasm and doesn’t give the reader any real reason to be excited about the candidate. 

Good example of a bookkeeper cover letter introduction

With five years of experience in bookkeeping, I am thrilled to apply for the bookkeeper position at Happy Pets. At ABC Corp, I enhanced the invoicing process, cutting errors by 25% and processing time by 40%. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my QuickBooks expertise and financial reporting skills to your team. Jane Smith, a current employee, recommended your company for its great work culture, and I am eager to contribute to your continued success.

What makes this example so much more engaging? Unlike the previous example, this one provides a brief overview of the applicant's work experience, highlights a key accomplishment, and expresses their enthusiasm for the role — all of which makes the hiring manager want to continue reading. Additionally, sneaking in that mutual acquaintance gives this example an extra layer of credibility. 

Tips for newcomers to the field 

Starting out in the bookkeeping world as a fresh graduate, intern, or someone making a career change can feel a bit daunting, especially when you’re up against candidates with more experience. But don’t worry — everyone has to start somewhere, and there are plenty of ways to make your cover letter shine even without years of hands-on experience:

This is what you can draw from when crafting the introduction to your no-experience cover letter:

  • Show your enthusiasm and commitment to learning. 
  • Write about any relevant projects or internships you've partaken in. 
  • Mention the skills you've picked up during your studies/internship/apprenticeship. 

As an example, look at this model introduction:

Cover letter opening example for fresh graduates

As a recent graduate with a degree in Accounting from ABC University, I have gained a solid foundation in bookkeeping through both my academic studies and hands-on experience during my internship at DEF Accounting Firm. During my internship, I helped with account reconciliations and financial reporting, which sparked my passion for bookkeeping. I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your team and contribute to Happy Pets’ success.

What makes this example so impactful? This example does a great job of showing off the candidate's qualifications and enthusiasm. It starts by mentioning the degree and relevant internship experience, which is perfect for a recent grad. Plus, talking about specific tasks like account reconciliations makes the experience feel more real. Also, the note about passion for bookkeeping and excitement to join Happy Pets adds a nice personal touch. 

So there you have it — our best tips for crafting a killer cover letter introduction that’ll grab attention and set you apart from the other candidates. Remember to keep your intro engaging and specific, and you’ll be well on your way to landing that interview.

Bookkeeper cover letter introduction tips

6. How to flash out your bookkeeping skills and accomplishments

Now that you've got the hiring manager's attention, it's time to make the most out of it! The body of your cover letter is where you really show off your bookkeeping skills and accomplishments in a way that makes you stand out. 

Ideally, you should aim for 2 to 4 body paragraphs that give the reader insights into: 

  • How will you add value to the team or company?
  • Can you demonstrate your relevant skills through specific accomplishments? 
  • What makes you stand out from the competition? 
  • What's your motivation for working for this particular employer? 

But first, let's start with the most obvious question: how do you know which skills to spotlight? 

Sure, you might be an expert in graphic design or know everything about social media marketing, but that’s not really going to convince anyone you can handle bookkeeping duties. The trick is to always focus on the skills that directly tie into the job you're applying for. 

To find out which skills are most relevant, you need to turn your attention back to the job posting. Read it carefully and identify what the employer is expecting of their future bookkeeper. Try to understand their needs and cater to them accordingly. 

Best hard skills for your bookkeeper cover letter

  • Proficiency in Accounting Software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero, Sage)
  • Accounts Payable and Receivable Management
  • Bank Reconciliation
  • Payroll Processing
  • Financial Reporting and Analysis
  • Knowledge of GAAP 
  • Data Entry Accuracy
  • Tax Preparation and Compliance
  • Budgeting and Forecasting
  • Excel Skills for Financial Modeling and Analysis

For bookkeepers, soft skills are just as important as technical (hard) skills because they show that you can handle the job while also being a dependable team member, communicator, and problem-solver. That's why you need to focus on showcasing both to to prove that you're a well-rounded job candidate. 

Best soft skills for your bookkeeper cover letter

  • Attention to Detail
  • Time Management 
  • Communication
  • Problem-Solving
  • Organization
  • Trustworthiness
  • Adaptability
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Teamwork
  • Customer Service

But presenting your skills is more than just listing what you’re capable of — it’s about showing how you’ve used those skills to get results. Employers want to see the value you’ve brought to past roles, so this is your chance to give them exactly that. 

The most effective way of presenting the value of your skills is by describing real-life scenarios you've handled and the results you've achieved, supported by quantifiable data. Something like this: 

Here's how to describe accomplishments in your bookkeeper cover letter

  • I reduced monthly payroll processing time by 25% by automating manual data entry tasks and implementing more efficient software systems.
  • By streamlining the invoicing process, I reduced overdue payments by 20%, which led to improved cash flow management for the company.
  • I managed accounts receivable and payable for over 150 clients, maintaining a 98% accuracy rate and ensuring all payments were processed on time.
  • I helped the company save $10,000 annually by identifying cost-saving opportunities and negotiating better vendor contracts.

Tips for newcomers to the field

If you're a fresh graduate or someone changing careers, writing the body paragraphs of your cover letter can feel a bit intimidating. But there are plenty of ways to show that you’ve got what it takes, even without years of professional bookkeeping experience.

The key is to focus on transferable skills and relevant experiences that show your potential. For example, you can draw from your:

  • Education
  • Internship
  • Apprenticeship
  • School projects
  • Volunteering work

Examples of skills in a bookkeeper cover letter for fresh graduates

  • In my accounting capstone project, I tracked and categorized expenses for a mock business, reducing errors by 20% compared to previous iterations.
  • I implemented a new filing system for financial records during my internship, which improved document retrieval time by 25%.
  • As a Sales Manager, I analyzed sales data and generated monthly financial reports, reducing reporting errors by 15% through improved data management.
  • During my time as an Administrative Assistant, I maintained records of office expenses amounting to $50,000 annually, ensuring all expenditures were documented with 100% accuracy.

To sum it all up, the purpose of these paragraphs is simple: prove you're the right fit for the job. By presenting your skills and accomplishments in a clear, engaging way, you can show the hiring manager that you understand their needs and have the experience to back it up. 

7. How to weave powerful action verbs into your bookkeeper cover letter

When you’re putting together your cover letter, make sure to keep it engaging all the way through. Besides your most illustrious achievements and skills, there's another way to keep the hiring manager invested in your cover letter — by using action verbs

Action verbs make your cover letter less dull and more dynamic. Instead of just listing your duties, you’re actively demonstrating your impact and accomplishments. . 

For example, saying you “increased efficiency” is far more engaging than just saying you “worked on” processes. Action verbs help you stand out by showcasing your proactive approach and making your experiences feel more vivid.

List of powerful action verbs for a bookkeeper cover letter

  • Managed
  • Reconciled
  • Processed
  • Balanced
  • Audited
  • Calculated
  • Analyzed
  • Verified
  • Prepared
  • Streamlined

But engagement and proactivity aren’t the only benefits of using action verbs. Many companies got into the habit of using Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter through job applications. ATS scans your cover letter for keywords and phrases related to the job and ranks them according to relevance. The higher you score, the more likely your application will make it to the hiring manager’s desk.

By using action verbs, you’re more likely to hit those keywords and get your cover letter noticed. For example, if the job posting mentions “managed accounts,” and you use “managed” in your cover letter, the ATS is more likely to pick up on that.

As you can see, action verbs are more than just fancy vocabulary — they play a significant role in how your cover letter is perceived, not only by human recruiters but also by HR software.

Bookkeeper cover letter action verbs

8. How to make a lasting impression with your bookkeeper cover letter closing statement 

You’ve done all the hard work — crafting a compelling introduction, showing off your skills, and sharing your accomplishments. But here’s the thing: you can’t quit before the finish line! Save some strength for writing the closing statement — it's just as important as the rest. 

So, how do you do it right?

Your closing sentences should be dedicated to: 

  • Thanking the reader for their time and consideration
  • Reiterating your key strengths
  • Showcasing your enthusiasm for the job
  • Including a call to action (your availability for further discussions)
  • Letting them know how they can reach you
  • Signing off professionally

Consider the following cover letter conclusion examples: 

Bad example of a bookkeeper cover letter conclusion

Thank you for considering my application. I hope to hear from you soon.

All the best,
Richard

Why is this a bad closing statement? Simply because it's too vague and lacks any real impact. It doesn't leave the hiring manager with a sense of the applicant's enthusiasm or confidence. There's no clear call to action, so it feels passive and forgettable. It’s basically just saying “thanks” and hoping for the best.

Good example of a bookkeeper cover letter conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. With my strong background in financial management, attention to detail, and passion for accuracy, I am confident I can make a positive contribution to your team. 

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills to Happy Pets and would love to discuss how I can support your accounting needs further. I am available at your convenience and can be reached at (123) 456-7890 or via email at richard.price@gmail.com. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you.

Best regards,
Richard Price

Why is this better? This closing works because it wraps up the cover letter on a high note. It thanks the reader, highlights key strengths, and shows genuine enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it includes a clear call to action, letting the employer know the applicant is available for further discussions and how to get in touch. It feels confident, professional, and leaves a solid final impression.

Unfortunately, many people tend to focus on the body paragraphs and end up neglecting the cover letter's conclusion. However, skipping over this part or rushing through it can leave your cover letter feeling incomplete.

Bookkeeper cover letter conclusion example

9. How to dodge the most common cover letter mistakes

Now, onto a less pleasant subject. So far we've talked about all the ways to make your cover letter a standout. But now it’s time to dive into the things that could go wrong and derail all your hard work.

Even a small mistake can make your cover letter less effective, or worse, cause it to be dismissed entirely. Let’s go over the most common cover letter mistakes and how you can avoid them, so you’re always putting your best foot forward!

  • The one-size-fits-all syndrome: Sending out the same generic cover letter to every job you apply for is a no-go. It makes it look like you’re not really interested in the specific role or company, just any job that comes your way.
  • Making it all about you: When your cover letter focuses too much on what you want from the job and not enough on what you can offer, it can come off as self-centered. Employers want to know how you can benefit them, not just what you’re hoping to get.
  • Repeating your resume: If your cover letter just repeats what’s in your resume, it doesn’t add much value. Instead, use this space to offer new insights or highlight specific achievements that didn’t make it into your resume.
  • One page is all you've got: Whether it’s too short or too long, getting the length of your cover letter wrong can be a problem. A short letter might seem rushed, while a long one can feel overwhelming, so aim for a sweet spot that’s just right.
  • Ignoring the importance of formatting: Poor formatting can make even the best content look bad. If your cover letter is a mess of fonts, sizes, and spacing, it can distract from your message and make it harder to read.
  • Forgetting to follow instructions: Ignoring the specific instructions in a job posting can be a dealbreaker. If the employer asks for a particular format or details and you don’t follow those instructions, it can seem like you’re not detail-oriented.
  • Failing to tailor your tone: Using the wrong tone can make your cover letter feel off. If you come across as hesitant, it might raise questions about your confidence in your abilities. On the other hand, sounding cocky or arrogant can be even worse.
  • Not including a call to action: Leaving out a call to action means missing a chance to encourage the hiring manager to take the next step. Always invite them to contact you or schedule an interview to keep the process moving forward.

While our list of common cover letter mistakes covers many of the big pitfalls, don't forget about the smaller, often overlooked errors. Typos and grammar mistakes can also make your cover letter look sloppy. The good news is that the vast majority of these blunders can be prevented by careful proofreading

10. How to pair your bookkeeper cover letter with a matching resume 

How could we possibly spend all this time talking about cover letter writing and not mention your bookkeeper resume at least once? Both documents play irreplaceable roles in your job application, and they should work together to create a unified picture of you as an applicant. 

Your resume and cover letter should complement each other perfectly. The cover letter introduces your skills, highlights your enthusiasm, and gives a sneak peek into your accomplishments.

Meanwhile, your resume provides the concrete details — your work history, skills, and education — all laid out in a clear, easy-to-read format. Together, they should tell a persuasive story about your qualifications.

The best thing you can do for your application is to ensure your resume and cover letter are in sync, not just in content but also visually. It should be evident from their design that they belong together. When both documents align in style and substance, you create a seamless application that grabs attention and sets you apart from the competition.

How to achieve visual consistency in both documents? 

  • Stick with the same font style and size: Using the same font and size in both your cover letter and resume creates a cohesive, streamlined look. It shows you’ve paid attention to the details and makes your application more polished and well put-together.
  • Match up the headers: Having the same header on both documents ties everything together nicely. Don't forget to include your name, contact details, and a link to your LinkedIn profile or personal website (if you have one).
  • Make margins and spacing uniform: Also, keep the margins and spacing consistent across both documents. This helps maintain a balanced, organized look.
  • Keep your color scheme in sync: If you’ve used color for headings or borders in your cover letter, carry that over to your resume too. It’s a simple way to visually link the two documents and make them feel like a matching set.

Matching the visuals of your cover letter and resume can be a real chore. Especially if you're setting everything up manually. But what if we told you there’s an easier way? Each of our cover letter templates comes with a matching resume template — one less thing to worry about. 

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11. Average salary and job outlook for bookkeepers 

When considering a career in bookkeeping, it's natural to wonder about the salary and job outlook.

As of May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the average salary for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks reaches up to $47,440  per year in the United States. This number can fluctuate, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced bookkeepers or those in specialized roles earning significantly more.

Of course, your real salary can also vary based on factors such as:

  • Geographical location
  • Years of experience
  • Self-employed vs employee
  • Specialization
  • Licensure

Although the BLS projects that employment for bookkeepers will slightly decline from 2022 to 2032, this occupation will still generate about 174,900 new openings each year over the decade. Despite the forecasted decline, bookkeeping continues to be a solid career choice for a number of reasons:

  • First off, it offers a stable and reliable job environment. Every business, big or small, needs someone to keep their financial records in order. This means there's always a demand for skilled bookkeepers.
  • Secondly, bookkeeping is a profession that offers a lot of flexibility. Many bookkeepers enjoy the option to work part-time, freelance, or even remotely. This flexibility can be a huge plus for those seeking a better work-life balance or looking to manage their own schedule.
  • Moreover, bookkeeping provides a solid foundation for career advancement. With experience, bookkeepers can transition into roles such as accounting, finance management, or even consulting. The skills learned in bookkeeping are transferable and can lead you to different roles across various sectors.

While the job outlook for bookkeepers might not be on the upswing, the profession still offers a lot of positive aspects. From a stable job environment to a solid average salary and opportunities for career growth, bookkeeping remains an attractive career choice for many.

Bookkeeper cover letter salary and job outlook

12. How to access useful resources for job-seeking bookkeepers

We've mentioned before that the key to writing a successful cover letter lies in its customization. But it's impossible to tailor your resume if you haven't found a specific job posting to reply to. Finding the right job as a bookkeeper can be much easier with the help of the right resources:

  • Industry-specific job boards: If you want to go for a more targeted approach, you should definitely start by visiting websites that cater specifically to your profession, such as Accounting Jobs Today, Consultants 500, or eFinancialCareers
  • General job search platforms: Of course, websites like Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor, or SimplyHired are also excellent sources of relevant job postings. You just need to do a bit more digging. 
  • Professional associations: Another way of getting to learn about new opportunities is by following organizations like the American Payroll Association (APA), the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), or the ACCA. Besides job postings, you'll also gain access to the latest industry news, trends, and certification programs. 
  • LinkedIn: The world of finance revolves around networking. If you don't know where to start making new connections, consider using LinkedIn as your entry point. This platform allows you to join relevant groups, get in touch with potential employers, and reach out to fellow bookkeepers. 
  • Freelance platforms: If you prefer to be the master of your own time, you probably aren't looking for traditional employment. If that's your case don't miss out on websites like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr.
  • Continuous education: Whether you're struggling to secure a job, looking for a promotion, or simply want to expand your qualifications, gaining knowledge and new skills is key! With online learning platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and AICPA, accessing relevant courses is easier than ever before. 

As you can see, finding the right resources and tailoring your cover letter to each opportunity makes a big difference. With the right tools and a personalized approach, you’re already well on your way to landing your dream bookkeeping job. Stay focused, keep refining your applications, and don’t hesitate to lean on these resources to guide you. You've got this!

Follow this cover letter outline for maximum success. 

Bookkeeper Cover Letter FAQ

What’s the ideal length for a bookkeeper cover letter?

Aim for the total length between half a page to one full page (intro + 2-4 body paragraphs + concluding paragraph). You want enough space to highlight your key skills and achievements without overwhelming the reader. Stick to the most relevant information and avoid repeating your resume.

How do I effectively use keywords in a bookkeeping cover letter?

Read the job posting carefully and identify relevant keywords. These often include specific skills (like financial reporting, accounts reconciliation, or payroll management) and software expertise (QuickBooks, Xero, Netsuite). Then, simply weave them naturally throughout your cover letter. This practice helps your cover letter get past the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), which scans for these keywords.

Should I talk about specific financial achievements in my cover letter?

Of course! Whenever possible, include quantifiable accomplishments to show your impact. For example, you can mention that you “reduced accounting discrepancies by 30% in the first quarter” or “cut processing time for accounts receivable by 20%, improving cash flow.” These details make your application stand out by showing exactly how you’ve contributed in past roles.

How should I address gaps in my employment history in a bookkeeping cover letter?

If you have employment gaps, acknowledge them at the start of your cover letter. Instead of framing it in a negative way, focus on how you stayed up-to-date with your skills during that time. You might say something like, “During a career break, I continued to stay current with bookkeeping trends and software by completing additional courses in Xero and payroll management.” Keep the explanation short, and shift the focus back to how you’re qualified for the job.

Is it important to discuss soft skills in a bookkeeping cover letter?

Yes, it is! Although it may not seem like it, soft skills are in fact crucial for a bookkeeper. They show how well you handle daily tasks beyond just technical abilities. Highlight skills like attention to detail, time management, and communication. For example, you could say, “My strong organizational skills allowed me to consistently meet tight deadlines while maintaining 100% accuracy in financial reports.” Striking the right balance between hard and soft skills is what makes a well-rounded candidate.

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Julia is an experienced career writer at Kickresume, who brings you expert tips on how to score big in the job market. From helping people improve their English to gain admission to their dream university, to guiding them on how to advance professionally, it would seem that her own career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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