How to prepare an excellent cover letter for consulting

A cover letter in consulting is a brief and personalized document that complements the CV. Its purpose is to show motivation, genuine interest in the firm and relevant achievements that demonstrate leadership and analytical skills. A well-crafted letter can make the difference between being invited to an interview or being left out of the process.

Did you know that a mistake as simple as getting the name of the firm wrong on your cover letter can instantly eliminate you from the selection process? Your cover letter is your moment to shine: an opportunity to be clear, concise and, above all, personalized. It's not about repeating your CV, it's about showing your genuine interest in the firm and highlighting why you're the right person for the role.

A well-crafted letter can be the difference between receiving an interview invitation or being left out. Below, you will find a complete guide so that your cover letter becomes a decisive factor in your favor.

1. Why is the cover letter so important?

Along with your CV, the firms require a letter that should not exceed one page. It is a personalized document that explains your motivations, skills and why you are a good candidate. Unlike the CV, where you list your accomplishments, the letter allows you to tell a short, coherent story that shows leadership, analytical skills and results orientation.

An effective letter answers three key questions:

• Why consulting? Explain what attracts you to the profession, what impact you want to make and what previous experiences convinced you that this is the right path for you.
• Why this firm? Show that you have researched their values, projects and culture. Explain why they fit you and your objectives.
• Why you? Highlight your differentiator: a project you led, a goal achieved or a challenge overcome. Present results in a clear and quantified way.

2. What do firms look for in your cover letter?

Beyond the CV, consulting firms want to see in your letter that you can make a meaningful contribution to the team. Include elements such as:

• Leadership and problem solving: choose an achievement that evidences how you led a team or solved a complex problem.
• Motivation and knowledge of the firm: show that you have researched the company and link your interests to what it offers.
• Cultural alignment: shows that you share the work ethic, results orientation and analytical mindset that characterize the firm.
• Clear and concise communication: the letter also reflects your ability to summarize. It should be coherent, error-free and easy to read.

In addition, if you have any red flags (job gaps, career changes, low grades), it is advisable to explain them briefly to show proactivity and transparency.

3. How to structure a very good cover letter?

A common outline in consulting includes three main paragraphs:

3.1. Opening paragraph: Why consulting?

Start with a strong, attention-grabbing sentence. Explain why you want to go into consulting and what academic or professional experiences motivated you.

3.2. Central paragraph: Why this signature?

Show that you have thoroughly researched the firm. Talk about a project, its culture or something that distinguishes it and relate it to your goals. This paragraph should answer "why this firm and not another?".

3.3. Final paragraph: Why you?

Connect your experience and accomplishments to what the firm is looking for. Include a concise story that shows leadership, structured thinking and measurable results. For example: "In my last role, I led a team that increased sales by 30% in six months...". Conclude by thanking them and indicating your availability for interviews.

Some experts recommend dividing this section into three mini-sections, i.e. dividing the answer into three independent reasons. Personally, I think this makes sense, but it will depend on your situation.

4. Common mistakes to avoid

• Use a generic letter: consulting firms instantly detect a "copy and paste" letter.
• Confusing the name of the company or the position: it shows a lack of attention and can instantly rule you out.
• Repeat the CV: the letter should complement it, not duplicate it.
• Write more than one page: keep the letter short and to the point; each sentence should provide value.

5. Mini-FAQ

How long should a cover letter be?
A little more than half a page; concentrate on the essentials.

Should I send a separate letter to each firm?
Yes. Personalizing it shows real interest and prepares you for the Fit interview.

Should I repeat what is already on my CV?
No. Use the letter to explain key motivations and accomplishments.

Do I put my grades or GPA?
Only if they add value; otherwise, they are already on the CV.

Should I address the letter to someone specific?
Whenever possible. Research who to address it to; if not, use a correct generic salutation.

Is it better to send the letter in English or Spanish?
It depends on the office. For international firms, prepare the English version.

When do I send the letter?
Always together with the CV, unless the process indicates otherwise.

6. Access resources and keep moving forward

On our resources page you will find cover letter templates and the complete Crack the Interview Process guide to go deeper into each stage of the selection process.

Access to the "Crack the Interview Process" guide and cover letter templates

And if you want to continue preparing for consulting, explore our complete 7 steps guide. You'll find more tips on CV, networking, case interviews, mental arithmetic, etc: