Strong Follow Up For Banking Contacts

Reviewed by Fallon Han· Updated 2026-06-01 06:06:45.974

This conversation was generated using Cook'd AI's career assistant and reviewed by Fallon Han from our editorial team for accuracy.

I got a reply from someone in corporate banking who said they are happy to look at my background and asked me to send my CV. I am a final-year master of finance student in Australia, switching from accounting, and I am on a temporary graduate visa. What should I send and how do I keep the momentum without sounding pushy?

Great sign. Send a clean CV plus a short note that makes it easy for them to help you. Keep it light, specific, and grateful. What to send: - Your CV in PDF, tailored to corporate banking - If relevant, a brief 2 to 3 line summary of your target role - No long cover letter unless they ask for it What to say in the message: - Thank them for offering to look - Mention you have attached your CV - Point to 1 or 2 areas you want feedback on, such as skills fit or how to present your accounting background for banking - Keep visa wording simple and factual, without leading with it Example phrasing: Hi [Name], Thank you for offering to take a look. I have attached my CV here. I am currently finishing my Master of Finance in Australia and exploring corporate banking opportunities, with a background in accounting. If you have any thoughts on how I should position my experience, I would really appreciate it. Best, [Your Name]

Should I mention the temporary graduate visa in that first message, or leave it out unless they ask? I do not want to create a problem before they even read the CV.

I would not lead with it. The first message should make the review as easy as possible and keep the focus on your fit. Best approach: - Attach the CV - Ask for feedback on your positioning - Mention visa only if it is directly relevant to the stage they are at When to mention it: - If they ask whether you are eligible to work - If the conversation moves toward internships, graduate programs, or timing - If you need to explain your availability for start dates If you do mention it, keep it neutral: - I am currently on a temporary graduate visa and available to discuss opportunities in Australia. That way, you stay transparent without making it the main topic.

What should I do if they reply with something short like, send your resume and I will have a look, but they do not suggest a time or next step?

Treat that as a soft yes, not a final outcome. Your job is to make the next step easy. Reply within 24 hours if you can: - Thank them - Send the CV - Add one clear question that invites a response Example: Hi [Name], Thanks again, I have attached my CV. I would really value any feedback you may have, especially on how I can best translate my accounting experience into a corporate banking profile. If helpful, I would also be glad to hear what kind of background you usually look for in junior candidates. Best, [Your Name] This does two things: - Shows initiative - Gives them a simple prompt to answer If they still do not respond after a week or two, you can follow up once with a polite check-in.

Can you give me a follow-up message for a week later if they go quiet after I send the CV? I want it to sound professional, not needy.

Absolutely. Keep it short, warm, and easy to answer. Example follow-up: Hi [Name], I just wanted to follow up on the CV I sent last week. I really appreciate you taking the time to review it. If you have any initial thoughts on how I could strengthen my profile for corporate banking, I would be very grateful. Best, [Your Name] Why this works: - It reminds them without pressure - It shows respect for their time - It keeps the conversation open for feedback rather than forcing a yes or no If they still do not reply, leave a longer gap before trying again or move on to another contact.

If they ask me why I want to move from accounting into corporate banking, what is the best way to explain it in a networking conversation?

Use a positive, forward-looking answer that connects your background to the new path. Structure: - Start with what you learned in accounting - Explain what attracts you to corporate banking - Show that you have thought about the transition Example phrasing: My accounting background has given me a strong base in financial analysis, attention to detail, and understanding how businesses are structured. I am now looking to move into corporate banking because I want to work closer to strategic financing decisions and client relationships, and I see it as a strong fit for my finance training and long-term career goals. A few tips: - Do not sound like you are running away from accounting - Show that the move is intentional - Keep it concise unless they ask for more If they seem engaged, you can follow up with a question like: - What backgrounds do you think translate best into corporate banking at entry level?