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Should You Use “To Whom It May Concern” In Your Cover Letter

Recruiter-backed alternatives to 'To Whom It May Concern'. Learn how to personalize your cover letter with tailored greetings, and get tips on researching the hiring manager's name to make a strong, professional first impression.

3 months ago   •   6 min read

One of the hardest parts of writing a cover letter is getting the greeting right. After all, it’s a letter, so you have to address it to someone...

But who do you address it to? You may have heard that it’s not a good idea to use “to whom it may concern” in your cover letter. But if you can’t use that phrase, what should you use instead?

One easy answer is “Dear hiring manager.” It’s to-the-point and respectful without being as impersonal.

However, if you can find the person’s name, that’s even better— and these days, with all the information available on company websites and LinkedIn, people may expect that if you care about getting this job, you’ll do enough research to learn their name.

In this article, we’ll discuss when you might be able to get away with using “to whom it may concern,” why it’s usually a bad idea, alternatives to this phrase, and how to become an expert researcher to find the name of the person who will be hiring you.

Let’s get started!

When it’s ok to use a generic greeting like “to whom it may concern”

Although "To whom it may concern" is seen as as outdated or impersonal in modern job markets, there are specific situations where you may still want to use it:

Formal or traditional industries

In academia, where traditions are respected, using "To Whom It May Concern" demonstrates an understanding of and respect for established protocols.

Research the culture of the industry or organization. If their communication typically uses a formal tone, you’re good to go.

Large organizations with unknown recipients

When you’re applying to a multinational corporation where you’re not exactly sure who will be reviewing your letter, and the company's communication style is generic. In this case, you can also use “Dear Hiring Manager” or one of the other alternatives we suggest later in this article.

With large organizations, you can use “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Hiring Manager” as a safe option when the company structure is complex and you can’t identify a specific person. However, try to at least send your greeting to the department (e.g., "To Whom It May Concern in the Marketing Department").

When personalization is not possible

If the job listing provides no specific contact information and your research yields no results.

It's better to use a generic yet respectful greeting than to guess incorrectly. However, if you can find any information at all, drop the generic greeting like a hot potato.

In cultures where it’s the norm

In certain cultures or regions, formal greetings are still the norm, especially in conservative sectors.

Understand the larger cultural context of the company. In some global markets, "To Whom It May Concern" is still standard practice.

When not to use a generic greeting

Even though there are a few cases where you can get away with it, the majority of the time using "To Whom It May Concern" is not your best option. Here are some situations where you should avoid it at all costs:

In modern, informal industries

In tech startups or creative fields like advertising or design, where more casual and innovative cultures thrive.

Many modern industries value personality and creativity. Using a generic and formal tone in your cover letter can suggest a lack of effort or research in understanding the company's culture.

When information is available

If the job listing includes the name of the hiring manager or if you've found the hiring manager through research.

In these cases, not using the hiring manager’s name can come across as lazy or imply that you don’t pay attention to details.

Small to mid-sized companies

Smaller organizations where teams are closely-knit and the hiring process is personal.

Using a generic salutation in more personal settings can imply a lack of genuine interest in the company and its people— not a great look.

Companies that emphasize personal connection

Organizations that value individuality and personal connection, which is often highlighted in their job postings or company culture pages.

A generic greeting may raise red flags with these companies, who often look for candidates who live out their values of personalization and individuality.

To sum up: if you’re not 100% sure that you can use “To Whom It May Concern,” don’t use it.

The best alternatives for “to whom it may concern”

Even if you need to use a generic phrase, there are way better options for the beginning of your cover letter than “to whom it may concern” in most cases.

Your choice depends on the information you have about the job posting and how comfortable you are with using informal/personal language. Here are some alternatives worth considering:

“Dear Hiring Manager”

This is one of the best ways to address the reader of a cover letter when you don’t know the recipient’s name. It’s professional, maintains respect for their role, respects their privacy, and is widely accepted.

“Dear [Job Title]”

If you're applying for a specific role but don't have a name, addressing the cover letter to the job title (or the job title’s supervisor) can work.

While "Dear Hiring Manager" is a more widely accepted way to start, "Dear [Job Title]" is specific and directly addresses the role you’re applying for.

You can use this alternative when you're aware of the job title for which you're applying and the company’s org chart. For instance, "Dear Marketing Manager" when applying for a marketing position.

“Hello [Department Name]”

This one is a good choice when you know the department you're applying to but not the individual. It demonstrates that you've done some research to identify the relevant department.

Use this when you know the specific department you’re applying to but don’t know the name of the hiring manager. For example, "Hello Marketing Department" when applying for a marketing role.

“Dear [Company Name] [Department Name] Team”

When you want to address a group of people, such as the entire HR team or a department, this option works well. It shows that you recognize the collaborative nature of the workplace and hiring process.

Choose this when you believe your cover letter may be reviewed by a team or multiple individuals within the organization. For example, "Dear ABC Company HR Team."

“Greetings”

This is a versatile and friendly alternative that maintains a polite tone (while avoiding assumptions).

Use "Greetings" when you have very limited information about the hiring manager or when you want to maintain a neutral and respectful tone.

“Hello Hiring Team”

If the company you’re applying for has a very casual company culture, and you know that a team will be reviewing applications, you can acknowledge their collective effort with this casual and friendly greeting.

Make sure that the company truly supports a casual approach. In some industries (like finance or law) or more formal companies, this is too informal and may be seen as disrespectful.

Strategies for finding the hiring manager's name

For many cover letters, your best bet is to find the name of the person who will actually be reviewing your application. You can often find the hiring manager’s name by following these steps:

Start with the job posting

Review the job posting or advertisement carefully. Sometimes, the name or contact information of the hiring manager is provided. Look for any details that indicate who you should address your application to.

Check the company website

Visit the company's official website and navigate to the "About Us" or "Contact Us" section. Look for executive profiles, department heads, or a directory that may list the hiring manager's name.

Social media

Check the company's social media profiles, especially LinkedIn and Twitter, for any mentions or posts by the hiring manager. They may share updates or insights that can help you identify them. On LinkedIn, search for the company's page and explore employee profiles to identify the hiring manager or relevant department head. Sometimes, LinkedIn profiles include details about their roles.

(Pro tip: before you reach out on LinkedIn, make sure you run your profile through LinkedIn Review so you’re ready to impress your potential future boss!)

Company directory

Some organizations maintain an online company directory with contact information for employees. Search for this directory on the company's website and see if you can find the hiring manager's name and title.

Contact the HR department

If all else fails, you can call or email the company's HR department and politely inquire about the name of the hiring manager or the appropriate contact person for the job application.

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• Perfect Cover Letter...

Perfect Cover Letter Salutations: Start Strong

11 min read · Updated on April 24, 2024

Greet your future employer professionally with these cover letter salutations

Cover letters – some recruiters love them; some recruiters hate them. Unfortunately, you'll rarely know which type of recruiter you're contacting, so the safest bet is always to send one, just in case. 

The aim of a cover letter is to make the reader want to find out more about you, so in this article, we're looking at starting strong. 

Which are the best cover letter salutations to make a great first impression?

What is a cover letter salutation?

When we say “salutation,” we mean the opening line of the letter where you greet the person you're writing to. For example, when you write to thank your aunt for the jumper she knitted for Christmas, you might use “Dear Aunt Betty” as your salutation. These days, the salutation may refer to the opening of an email as much as to the opening of a handwritten or printed letter. 

While cover letter salutations generally refer to the opening line of your epistle, some people also refer to the sign-off as a salutation as well, so we'll look at that at the end of the article. 

Considerations when choosing cover letter salutations

A cover letter is a formal business document that you use to try to make yourself more memorable. Remember, though, you want to be remembered for the right reasons and not the wrong ones! 

Starting your letter “Yo!” or “Hey” doesn't convey the impression of a competent professional who knows the unspoken rules of office writing etiquette. 

While not everyone is a natural writer, relying instead on personality, speech, and body language, cover letters depend very much on the written word. In fact, a cover letter, along with your resume, is part of your personal sales brochure. You need to choose the right words to sell yourself effectively. 

Stick to these guidelines, and you can't go far wrong.

Keep it formal and professional

Your tone should be aligned with the tone you'd use when speaking to a teacher, religious leader, or grandma, not the tone you'd use with your mates or kid brother. This is the first impression you'll make on your potential employer, so it's important to show that you can communicate professionally , with respect, and in line with workplace norms. 

Personalize wherever possible

Bonus points if you know, or can find out, the name of the person who will be reading the letter. If you can address them by name, you're instantly showing that you've made the effort, done your research, and have taken the time to write a personalized letter rather than firing the same one off to multiple vacancies. 

Always use a salutation

Even if you can't find out the recipient's name, never leave the greeting line blank. It conveys the impression of someone who lacks attention to detail or is just plain lazy. Not a great impression to create on someone you need to impress! 

This doesn't just apply to the cover letter salutation but to the entire document. Punctuation is important as it enables your reader to accurately interpret your meaning. Use capital letters for names and add a comma after the salutation. Get a trusted friend or family member to check over your letter when it's written to help you give it the polish it needs. 

Options for cover letter salutations

Let's take a look at some different salutations you could use on your cover letter. 

Dear Mr Donnelly 

Addressing the hiring manager by name is the ideal option. If it's not given in the job posting or provided by the person connecting you, it's fine to resort to good old Google. You may find their name on the company website or be able to track them down on LinkedIn. It's also perfectly acceptable to contact the company directly and ask them who you should address your application to.

If you're lucky enough to know the name of the hiring manager, you should always use it in the cover letter salutation. Bear these considerations in mind, though: 

Double and triple check the spelling – even the most common names sometimes have unconventional spellings 

Default to “Mr,” “Mrs,” or “Miss” plus their surname and use the generic “Ms” if you're not sure whether “Mrs” or “Miss” would be most appropriate

Reflect the gender-neutral title “Mx” if that's what you find online or on the job advert

Dear Doctor Foster

If the recipient has a professional title, it's recommended you use that instead of “Mr,” “Mrs,” or “Miss.” Examples could include “Dear Professor Dumbledore,” “Dear General Eisenhower,” or “Dear Doctor House.” 

While the formal “Dear Ms Farrell” is the preferred and most formal option, if you only have the hiring manager's first name, it's perfectly acceptable to use it to open the letter. Again, check the spelling. A slightly less formal salutation here isn't a reason to take a less formal tone throughout the rest of the letter, however. This is a suitable salutation for a job application email, as you can get away with a slightly more relaxed approach in an email.

Dear HR team

If you need a greeting for a cover letter to an unknown recipient, this is a popular option. It's not ideal, but your letter is likely to be forwarded to the right department at least. If you can't find the name of the hiring manager, this is a viable Plan B. 

Dear hiring manager

This is an alternative cover letter greeting when you have no name available. It's better than leaving a blank space, but it's far from warm and personal. Additionally, your letter may not find its way to the right person if the company has different teams hiring for different roles. Try to avoid this unless you've run out of other options.

Dear Sir / Madam

This cover letter salutation is falling out of favor. It's not just impersonal; it doesn't even address a specific team or department. Still, it's better than an overly casual greeting or a blank space. 

How NOT to address a cover letter

As we've already said, there are some greetings that are just too informal to use as cover letter salutations. There are others, however, that tread a very fine line. We'd advise avoiding these openings, as they're either too colloquial or too stuffy. 

To whom it may concern

We're not in the 19th century anymore. Trim your whiskers and relegate this stuffy greeting to history, it's too impersonal even for the most uptight offices. 

Using “dear” on its own, with no name or further greeting attached, gives the wrong vibe. It sounds like a combination of your old aunt, someone unfamiliar with the English language, and someone who's forgotten to fill in a blank on their template. Literally, anything is better than nothing after the word “dear.”

Hi, hello, hi there!

While these cover letter salutations certainly aren't stuffy or over-formal, they fall too far in the other direction. They're friendly and casual but too much for an initial introduction. Save these for the interview. 

Expert tip: Read this article to find out more about cover letter mistakes to avoid: 10 of the Worst Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid  

Cover letter closing salutations

How you end is just as important as how you begin. After all, you want to end on a high! Before you come to an abrupt end, you'll want to do both of these things: 

Thank the reader for their time and consideration 

Add a call to action, for example, directing them to look at your resume or give you a call

Cover letter salutations to close 

You've started strong and used the body of the email to convince the hiring manager that you're the ideal candidate for the role. Now, it's time to choose your sign-off. 

Yours sincerely, yours truly

These two phrases should be your go-to sign-offs for a formal business letter. If you've started your letter with the recipient's name, choose sincerely; otherwise, choose truly. 

Best regards, kind regards, regards

These are all acceptable closing phrases but better suited to an email than a full letter. They veer towards the casual and aren't generally considered the best letter-writing etiquette. 

Respectfully

This is a polite way of signing off a letter, although not especially conventional or formal. While it's better than no closing at all, it would be wiser to choose a more formal option. 

How NOT to sign off a cover letter 

Just as there are ways not to start a cover letter, there are ways not to sign off. 

Well, it's polite but way too informal. “Thank you” would be better, but a line within the body of the letter saying that you appreciate the time they take to consider your application would be best. 

Just no. You're not taking leave of a friend you've just dropped in on; you're addressing your potential future employer. A more formal and respectful tone is needed. 

However you choose to end your cover letter, remember to finish with your name – and leave space above to sign it if you intend to print it out.

Cover letter examples

Below you'll find two cover letter examples with strong salutations, one a traditional letter and one an email, that you can use for inspiration. 

Traditional cover letter example

Dear Ms Searle, 

Re: Sales Manager vacancy 

Having seen your advertisement for a Sales Manager on LinkedIn, I would like to outline my professional experience and strong track record. I believe I can make a very significant contribution to Acme Corp.

In addition to extensive experience in a sales environment, I also have a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and a proven ability to meet targets. As you will see from my enclosed resume, I am a natural people person, communicating effectively with a diverse range of people and demonstrating excellent negotiation and influencing skills. My leadership abilities mean that I am able to successfully engage and motivate teams – my current team has surpassed its Q1 targets by 23%. 

I am driven, ambitious, and keen to progress my career in a growing and innovative business such as Acme Corp. I am confident that my strong work ethic, combined with my sales results and integrity, will enable me to play a key role in your success. 

Please do not hesitate to call me at 555-555-5555 so we can arrange an interview to discuss my application in greater depth. I appreciate your consideration. 

Yours sincerely,

Email cover letter example 

Dear Liz, 

Re: Assistant Security Manager vacancy (ref: 12345)

Having read your advertisement for an Assistant Security Manager with interest, I am writing to outline my extensive professional experience. I believe that I possess the talents necessary to make a positive contribution to your hotel.    

I have a comprehensive understanding of security and a commitment to exceptional service. As a Police Officer, I led teams of up to 6 personnel, overseeing security patrols and managing performance. Colleagues would recommend me for my ability to build and motivate teams to achieve exceptionally high standards and positive outcomes. 

As a manager, I take pride in providing training and development opportunities across the team to improve individual skill levels and ensure the achievement of organizational objectives.

The position at Acme Hotel is particularly appealing to me as I believe it will make the best possible use of my security and leadership skills whilst providing opportunities for further development. 

Please do not hesitate to call me at 555-555-5555 so we can arrange an interview to discuss my application in greater depth. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards, 

Choose the right cover letter salutations to set the right tone

As you can see, there are several options for opening and closing a cover letter. Make sure you choose one that is professional, has the right amount of formality, and shows you understand corporate communication. 

At TopResume, we create impactful resumes that land jobs. If you need help with your cover letter, we can do that, too! Why not contact us for a strong start on your journey towards a new career? 

Recommended reading: 

Resume vs Cover Letter: How They're Different

What is the perfect cover letter length?

How to Tailor Your Cover Letter for Each Job Application

Related Articles:

How to Maximize Your Resume Action Words to Wow the Employer

Resume Spelling and Accent Explained

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

See how your resume stacks up.

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15 “To Whom It May Concern” Letters With Examples

Years back, “To Whom It May Concern” was the traditional opening greeting in professional letters and other forms of business communication. Nowadays, you rarely see any begin with it.

The methods of communication we use today are more pointed than ever and relatively less formal. Modern communications are more conversational.

For example, if you want to send someone an email , you get their specific email address, and no one else will receive it apart from them.

With the internet, it’ll take little effort to find the recipient’s name so you can address them appropriately. “Dear John,” or “Dear Mary,” for instance.

In this post, let me share some of the best “To Whom It May Concern” sample template examples of how to use them correctly in your email or letter.

I will also discuss situations when to use them and when not to.

Also Read : Best Recommendation Letter Examples For Students

“To Whom It May Concern” Sample Letter Template Examples

1. scholarship letter of recommendation.

This letter example accurately portrays the use of the “To Whom It May Concern” salutation.

It’s a formal letter of recommendation and highlights the subject in bold capital letters. Meanwhile, the salutation comes after in sentence case and a regular typeface.

From the first sentence, the letter introduces the person it’s recommending in bold letters.

The use of bold letters aims to capture the recipient’s attention. They could easily skip the opening and start reading the body from the onset.

Most importantly, the letter maintains formality and only talks about the person it’s recommending.

Also Read : Polite Follow-up Email Examples

2. Letter Of Support

If, as a company or individual, you want to express support for some other company or individual, it wouldn’t be wrong to use a “To Whom It May Concern” letter.

As this example indicates, it’s most suitable when writing on behalf of a company or group.

First, it shows anonymity without portraying any individual as the sender.

Secondly, it shows that the support offer is the responsibility of every group member, with pronouns like “We” and “Our.”

Finally, the formatting is remarkable: it first introduces the intention and unambiguously outlines the support terms.

Check Out : Best Business Introduction Email Examples & Tips

3. Letter Of Confirmation

A letter of confirmation is not very different from a letter of recommendation, which makes a “To Whom It May Concern” letter suitable.

This sample is a letter confirming that a student was a member of a particular program for a specific duration.

The “To Whom It May Concern” salutation is appropriate because anyone can receive the letter.

The student who the letter is recommending may not need the letter immediately but subsequently. It’s a type of certificate that they can keep forever and present on demand.

4. Letter Of Investigation

This investigation letter follows a formal complaint and broadcast letter style. It’s not an employee making a complaint but a superior – a Captain in the Sheriff’s Department – requesting a company department to complete forms for a fraud check.

Such a delicate situation requires 100% formality, and it doesn’t get more formal than a “To Whom It May Concern” letter.

It expresses a lack of bias. Hence, no recipient will feel like they are a principal suspect in the fraud accusation. However, typical of broadcast letters, what’s most important is the content of the letter and not the salutation.

Explore : Simple Resignation Email Examples

5. Letter Of Invitation

Just like making a formal complaint, you can also make a statement, confirming or taking responsibility for something.

This sample letter of invitation is a model example. It’s a “To Whom It May Concern” letter addressed to an embassy, confirming the responsibility of a family member who intends to visit.

When writing such a letter of invitation to an embassy, it’s not entirely wrong to open with “To Whom It May Concern” since you don’t know the recipient.

If you do, it’s still not wrong because even if the embassy approves or rejects your invitation, the letter will remain in the records.

6. Letter Of Authorization

Here’s another sample letter template addressed to a government agency.

The letter authorizes an agent to undertake business matters with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

It opens with the letter title before the salutation. However, the subject draws the most attention.

The letter is brief, and, most importantly, it highlights the name and position of the person authorizing the agent.

Such a letter is valid for more than two years, which means the agent can use it multiple times. As a result, it’s suitable to not address the letter to a single person or office in particular.

Also Read : Best Counter Offer Letter Examples

7. Letter Of Notice

This letter of notice serves as a recommendation letter and formal complaint.

It doesn’t recommend a person or group but recommends actions employers can take to foster relationships with their employees.

It can also work as a broadcast “To Whom It May Concern” letter. You can use this sample if you’re writing a notice letter to a company where you’re not an employee.

Since you don’t work for the company, the recipient won’t expect you to address them directly. Hence, it’s safe to open with “To Whom It May Concern.”

8. Letter Of Complaint

This letter of complaint is from a customer to a company they patronize. However, it can also work if you’re an employee wanting to make an internal complaint.

Notably, it’s a pointed letter. Although there’s no bolded or capitalized subject, the first paragraph clearly states who the complainer is and the complaint.

The subsequent paragraphs explain the background behind the complaint.

No matter the complaint, it’s ideal not to sound overly dismissive. Hence, the closing paragraph expresses a sense of understanding and hope that the superior will handle the matter accordingly.

Also Read : What To Include In A Cover Letter For A Job ?

9. Broadcast Letter Sample

You can use this sample when informing a group rather than an individual. The letter addresses an association of teachers to notify them of a large donation to support a joint project.

Although the name and contact details of the association are available, the “To Whom It May Concern” salutation is still appropriate, as anyone can read it.

For instance, the association may send copies of the letter to its different members. Alternatively, one member can read it to the hearing of everyone in a meeting.

Whichever method, the letter doesn’t address anyone in particular but the group as a whole.

10. Guardianship Letter

A guardianship letter recommends prospective guardians who will look over a child or ward should anything happen to their current guardians.

As a result, the recommended guardian won’t use the letter immediately but sometime in the future.

Such a letter is also usually sent to a courthouse or a different legal body that handles guardian-related matters. With all of these, you can open with “To Whom It May Concern,” just like in this sample.

When it’s time to effect the letter, anybody in the office could read it. Hence, you don’t need a direct salutation.

Also Read : Best Memo Examples

11. Prospect Letter

As mentioned earlier, writing prospect letters is one of the few instances when you can use the “To Whom It May Concern” format.

In this sample, a company is reaching out to other companies and requesting their support in a project.

The project details are of uttermost importance, and the sample letter explains every detail extensively.

From the onset, the aim of the letter is apparent. In addition, it doesn’t fail to state how the companies that decide to support will benefit.

Furthermore, the letter outlines specifically ideal amounts that the companies can donate. It has all the features of a converting “To Whom It May Concern” prospect letter.

12. Expectation Letter

When sending out expectation letters to multiple participants, you can use a “To Whom It May Concern” letter. It’s a form of broadcasting.

The sample letter outlines the expectations of employers, students, and schools who elect to be part of a training program.

The letter opens with a “To Whom It May Concern” salutation and immediately thanks and congratulates the participants. As a result, recipients can still feel special as it shows the sender values them.

The first paragraph further explains the purpose and overall goal of the project for each participant.

Also Read : Best Resignation Email Subject Line Examples

13. Self-recommendation Letter Format

Here’s a sample to use if you’re writing a self-recommendation letter.

The letter is short and brief, featuring only three main paragraphs after the “To Whom It May Concern” salutation.

The “To Whom It May Concern” salutation shows that the sender didn’t have any particular company in mind.

Instead, they can submit copies of the letter to different companies. The takeaway from this sample letter is the details.

It highlights the primary strengths of the person it’s recommending. It also highlights what they can contribute should the company hire them.

14. “To Whom It May Concern” Letter For Employee

If you’re an employer and your employee requests a job verification letter, you can issue a “To Whom It May Concern” business letter. It could be inconvenient to ask them who the letter is for or why they need it.

Employees usually request job verification letters when they want to leave a company. However, they may not want to tell you who their new employer is.

With this business letter, it doesn’t matter who the letter is for or why they need it; they could submit it to anyone.

This sample is ideal for such job verification letters. It’s perfect if the employee holds multiple positions in the company.

Also Read : LinkedIn Recommendation Examples

15. Shipment Confirmation Letter

This sample is a shipment confirmation letter confirming the contents of a particular shipment. Such letters aim to verify the authenticity of a specific person, product, service, or other. It’s similar to the previous job verification letter.

The letter could work as an official document since it’s in the form of an invoice. As a result, it’ll be wrong to address it to a particular person, using “Dear Madam/Sir” or similar.

When To Use “To Whom It May Concern”

Now that we have seen some great examples of “To Whom It May Concern” letters, we’ll be itching to use them. However, in the first place, it’s important to know when to use “To Whom It May Concern” and when not.

Here are a few instances when using “To Whom It May Concern” may be appropriate:

Photo by alleksana via Pexels

Recommendation Letter

If your friend, colleague, or other acquaintance is applying for a new job or trying to get into college, they may ask you to write a recommendation on their behalf.

You don’t know who will receive and read the email or the letter. It could be the HR manager, the deputy, a CEO, or other department superiors if it’s a job.

For college, it could be the department chair, a head professor, or any member of the graduate admissions committee.

Likewise, whoever reads the email or the letter will be less concerned about how you open or your salutation. The recipient isn’t interested in you but the person you’re recommending.

As a result, it won’t be unfitting to begin your letter with “To Whom It May Concern.”

Introductory Letters

In business, you get to introduce yourself often. Most times, it’s to people you’ve never met.

For example, an anonymous individual or company may contact you for a quote or any other profitable business prospect.

If you’re an interest-driven marketer or company, you wouldn’t want to overlook any opportunity to increase your clientele.

Hence, when you receive such anonymous prospects, you should reply, even if you don’t know much about who’s contacting you.

In such a situation, it’s safe to take a general approach like opening your email or letter with “To Whom It May Concern.”

In your letter, you can request to know more about the individual or company so you can address them appropriately next time.

Prospecting Letters

Previously, you received an introductory letter from an anonymous individual or company. The situation is not very different if you were the one sending out a prospecting letter.

However, opening with “To Whom It May Concern” in email or prospect letters is only ideal when you don’t have specific recipients in mind.

Often, with automated marketing campaigns, you may send out prospect emails or letters to many random prospective clients.

Most recipients won’t mind that you open your email or your letter with “To Whom It May Concern” because you’re also anonymous to them.

If the content of your letter is encouraging, they’ll most likely respond.

However, if you can find out more about your prospective clients, it’s better to address them appropriately when sending prospects.

Formal Complaints

As an employee, you can come across different situations in your workplace that you find inconvenient.

The best thing to do is to make a formal complaint. Any superior in your company can read your complaint letter.

It could be the head of your department, customer service, some administrator, or even the CEO. It depends on the issues you’re addressing in your letter.

The most important thing for anyone that reads your letter is your complaints. Some readers may skip the opening entirely and go straight to the body of the letter.

Perhaps you’re the head of a department, and you want to make a complaint to your subordinates about something you don’t like. You can issue a general complaint letter and open it with “To Whom It May Concern.”

Broadcast Letters

A broadcast letter is always the go-to when contacting a large and complex audience.

Usually, these letters aim to inform the audience of something they may or may not find interesting. In other words, your recipient may take action or not.

As a result, broadcast letters typically contain in-depth information.

For example, you may be informing companies that you are open for employment or your clients that a product is no longer available.

Like the other instances previously mentioned, the details matter the most in your broadcast letter. How you open would be less notable.

When Not To Use “To Whom It May Concern”

There are instances when you should never use a “To Whom It May Concern”. These include:

Photo by Karolina Grabowska via Pexels

Cover Letters

When applying for a job, your cover letter could decide your chances. You don’t want to open your cover letter with “To Whom It May Concern.”

Using such a salutation could suggest that you’re nonchalant. Showing interest in the company is necessary when seeking a job.

Hence, you should endeavor to find out who receives your cover letter and address it correctly.

If you’re sending your cover letter via email – which is most likely – you can get a hint of who reads the letter from the email address.

Generally, opening with “Dear” is the industry standard. “Dear Sir/Madam,” is ok.

However, if you know who receives and reads your cover letter, you can open with formal greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Recruiting Manager.”

Inquiry Letters

You write an inquiry letter to learn or get information about something.

For example, you may write to a company to inquire how much a service costs or to a customer to collect their delivery details.

In both instances, your opening needs to be specific because you don’t want the recipient to ignore your letter.

The recipients need to know that they alone can provide the answers to your inquiry. Opening with “To Whom It May Concern” shows that the letter could be for anyone and not them in particular.

Usually, people send inquiry letters to recipients they’re not acquainted with or are contacting for the first time.

Nevertheless, if you want a response, you should open with something better like a simple “Sir/Madam.”

Follow-up Letters

It’s ok to send your recommendation letter, introductory letter, prospect letter, or formal complaint with “To Whom It May Concern.”

However, if you get a reply and you’re to send a follow-up letter, you should drop the “To Whom It May Concern.”

You most likely included your name and contact details in your first letter. With this information, your recipient should address you adequately in their reply letter.

You can then use the specific person information and address them accordingly in return in your follow-up letter.

Even if they do not, sending a follow-up with a “To Whom It May Concern” greeting is unwelcoming. It could suggest to the recipient that you don’t want to communicate.

Report Letters

As an employee, you may need to send reports to your superiors from time to time.

It’s not only unprofessional to address your superiors using “To Whom It May Concern,” but it’s also disrespectful.

Reports in letter form are usually requested. Therefore, it shouldn’t take much effort to find out who receives the letter and address them accordingly.

When you address the recipient correctly, it indicates to them that you carefully prepared your report. It’ll be easier for them to trust what you’re reporting.

You could be sending out report letters to multiple recipients. You can use a general “Dear Sir/Madam” salutation in such a situation.

Also, you can be creative. For example, if your recipients are the board of directors, you can open with a greeting like “Dear Members Of The Board.”

Self-recommendation Letters

Usually, someone writes a recommendation letter on behalf of another person. However, there are instances when you could write a self-recommendation letter.

If you’re in school, you could write a self-recommendation letter recommending yourself for a scholarship.

In a business setting, you could self-recommend yourself for a new position in your current company. Another typical instance is recommending yourself for transfer to a new branch.

In this kind of business correspondence, the recipient of the letter could forgive someone writing on your behalf if they open with “To Whom It May Concern.” However, for a self-recommendation letter, it’s unsuitable.

Opening with “To Whom It May Concern,” when self-recommending for a new job position could appear like a demand.

You should address the recipient or group of recipients by their title and name, respectively.

“To Whom It May Concern” Alternative Greetings Here are a few alternatives that you may use in place of “To Whom It May Concern” in your email or letter: Dear Hiring Manager Dear Recruiter Greetings Dear Recruiting Department Dear [Name of department you’re interested in] Dear [Name of the title or role of the person you’re pursuing] Dear Customer Service Manager Dear Customer Service Department Dear Human Resources Department Hello Dear Search Committee Dear [Name] Hi Friend Season’s Greetings Hello There [Name] Good Morning Good Day Dear Personnel manager Dear Customer Service Associate Dear Administrative assistant

Bottom Line

If you must open a letter with “To Whom It May Concern”, make sure the first letter of each word is capitalized, and the phrase is followed by a colon. Also make sure that it’s in the right setting and that the letter is well written.

You can follow the tips in this post to ensure you’re doing it right. Ultimately, you can model the outlined letter template examples.

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When and How to Use "To Whom It May Concern"

Options for Starting a Letter

When to use “to whom it may concern”, how to use “to whom it may concern”, alternative greetings to use, when to leave off the salutation, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Miguel Co / The Balance

“To Whom It May Concern” is a salutation traditionally used in business letters when the sender doesn’t know the name of the person who will receive the message. Although it’s somewhat old-fashioned, this greeting is still an option when you’re sending cover letters, job inquiries, or other business correspondence. 

That said, you should make every effort to find a contact name to use in your letter. You also have other options. Find out more about alternatives and when it's appropriate to start your letter with this greeting.

Key Takeaways

• Before you use “To Whom It May Concern,” consider alternative letter greetings, such as "Greetings" or "Dear Hiring Manager."
• Do your best to find a contact person; doing so will increase the likelihood that your letter or email will be read and acknowledged. 
• The first letter in each word is capitalized, and the phrase is followed by a colon.

"To Whom It May Concern" is an impersonal and somewhat outdated letter greeting. It is still sometimes used, but nowadays, there are better options for starting a letter. 

One simple approach is to not include any salutation. In that case, simply begin your email or letter with the first paragraph or with “Re: Topic You’re Writing About” in the subject line, followed by the rest of the letter or message in the body.

When other options don't work for your correspondence, it's acceptable to start a letter with "To Whom It May Concern."

If you do choose to use “To Whom It May Concern” when you're applying for jobs, it shouldn't impact your application. A Resume Companion survey reports that 83% of hiring managers said seeing it would have little or no impact on their hiring decisions.

Here is when and how to use “To Whom It May Concern,” as well as examples of alternative salutations to use when writing letters.

Here is when and how to use “To Whom It May Concern,” along with examples of alternative salutations to use when writing letters.

Look for a Contact Person

Ideally, you will try to ascertain the name of the specific person to whom you are writing. For example, if you are writing a cover letter for a job application and do not know the contact person, do your best to find out the name of the employer or hiring manager.

If you’re writing a business letter, it will more likely be read if you address it to a specific person at the company. You’ll also have a person to follow up with if you don’t get a response from your first inquiry. Taking a few minutes to try to locate a contact is worth the time. 

Check the Job Listing

There are several ways to discover the name of the person you are contacting. If you are applying for a job, the name of the employer or hiring manager may be on the job listing. However, that is not always the case.

Many employers don’t list a contact person because they may not want direct inquiries from job seekers.

Check the Company Website

You can look on the company website for the name of the person in the position you are trying to contact. You can often find this in the “About Us,” “Staff,” or “Contact Us” sections. If you cannot find the name on the website, try to find the right person on LinkedIn, or ask a friend or colleague if he or she knows the person’s name.

Ask the Employer

Another option is to call the office and ask the administrative assistant for advice. For example, you might explain you are applying for a job and would like to know the name of the hiring manager.

Be sure to ask the administrative assistant to spell the hiring manager’s name. Then double-check the spelling on the company website or LinkedIn. 

If you take all of these steps and still do not know the name of the person you are contacting, you can use “To Whom It May Concern” or an alternative generic greeting.

When should you use the term? It should be used at the beginning of a letter, email, or other form of communication when you are unsure of who will be reading it.

This might happen at many points in your job search. For example, you might be sending a cover letter, letter of recommendation, or other job search materials to someone whose name you do not know.

It is also appropriate to use “To Whom It May Concern” when you are sending an inquiry (also known as a prospecting letter or letter of interest ) but don’t have the details of a contact person.

Capitalization and Spacing

When addressing a letter with “To Whom It May Concern,” the first letter of each word is typically capitalized, and the phrase is followed by a colon:

To Whom It May Concern:

Skip the next line, and then start the first paragraph of the letter.

“To Whom It May Concern” is considered fairly outdated, especially when writing cover letters for jobs. “Dear Sir or Madam” is another salutation that was commonly used in the past, but it too may also come across as old-fashioned. It’s also non-inclusive.

There are better alternatives you can use for letter salutations when you are writing a letter and don’t have a named person to write to.

Here are some options:

• Dear Hiring Committee
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Team
• Dear HR Manager
• Dear Human Resources Representative
• Dear Human Resources Team
• Dear [Department] Name
• Dear [Department] Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear Personnel Manager
• Dear Search Committee
• Dear Recruiter
• Dear Recruiting Manager
• Dear Recruiting Team
• Dear Talent Acquisition Team
• Dear Customer Service Manager
• Re: (Topic of Letter)

You can also write a greeting that is still general but focuses on the group of people you are reaching out to. For example, if you are contacting people in your network for help with your job search , you might use the greeting “Dear Friends and Family.”

Another option for starting your letter is to leave off the salutation entirely. If you decide not to include a greeting, begin with the first paragraph of your letter or email message.

What is the best format for business letters?

Business letters are typically written in block format, meaning that the type is left-justified, with single-spaced text and a double space between paragraphs. Leave a few spaces after the closing to make room for your signature. 

What are the sections of a business letter?

The sections of a business letter are the address of the sender, the date, the address of the recipient, a salutation, the body of the letter, a closing, and a signature. 

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Have you ever wondered how to approach someone when you just don't know how to address them?

When you meet someone in person, you greet them with a "Hi!", but what if you have to reach out through an email or letter?

In such cases, most professionals use "to whom it may concern" to address the person. It is considered as one of the laziest way to greet someone.

In modern times, every person's detail is just a click away. Instead of making an effort to find the receiver's name, if you end up writing to whom it may concern , it would suggest that you have not done your homework.

Here we will discuss some of the most frequently asked questions and topics related to how to write to whom it may concern by answering the following questions.

What is the Meaning of "To Whom It May Concern"?

To whom it may concern is a salutation used while framing a letter or an email to a business professional. It is generally used when you do not know the recipient's name. However, as mentioned earlier, it is not the best way to reach out to people of interest.

Also Read: How to address a cover letter in 2022?

“To Whom It May Concern” in Cover Letter

"To whom it may concern" is generally used when the recipient's name is unknown.

But, with the frequent use of this phrase, it has lost it's charms.

If you use this phrase in your cover letter it may come off as impersonal, or uninterested.

That's why you should not use "to whom it may concern" in your cover letter.

However, there are some alternatives, where you can use "To whom it may concern" in cover letters

When to Use “To Whom It May Concern” in Cover Letters

Here are some situation where you can use "to whom it may concern" as a salutation.

1. If You Don't Find the hiring manager's name

If you are applying to a company through agencies or any 3rd pary way, it's difficult for you to find the hiring manager's name.

In that case, you can start your cover letter with "to whom it may concern." Since, having any type of cover letter address is better than no address at all.

2. If the name of the hiring manager is gender neutral

If you have the name of the hiring manager, but the name is gender nuutral, it's best to use a generic salutation such as "to whom it may concern" rathar than offending your potential employer.

3. If the hiring manager are a group of people

If the hiring manager in not one person, of if you found multiple hiring managers in a company, but don't know who will get your resume and cover letter, it is better to use 'to whom it may concern' instead of a specific name.

Also Read: How to address a cover letter without name in 2022?

What are the Alternatives for 'To Whom It May Concern"?

It cannot be emphasized enough that the phrase to whom it may concern must be avoided at all costs. But if not, what else can be used when no information is available?

We have wracked our brains so that you don't have to when it comes to alternatives that you can use instead of to whom it may concern .

• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear Recruiting Team
• Dear (the job title you are applying for) Hiring Team
• Dear Recruiting Department
• Dear Recruiting Manager
• Good Morning/Afternoon
• Dear Human Resources Manager
• Hello There
• Dear Customer Service Manager

Also Read: How to start a cover letter professionally in 2022?

How to Write 'To Whom It May Concern' in Cover Letter?

If you must add 'to whom it may concern' in your cover letter, keep these cover letter formatting tips in mind:

• Capitalize the first letter of each word
• Make use of " whom " instead of " who " or " whomever "
• Follow the phrase to whom it may concern with a colon than a comma
• Add double space before typing the body of the message

Things to Do Before Using 'To Whom It May Concern' in Cover Letter?

Here are some things to do before using 'To Whom It May Concern' in cover letter.

These include:

• Read the job description carefully. Look for recruiter's name there.
• Check the website of the company. You might find information about the person in the "about us" section.
• Make use of job networking sites such as LinkedIn, where you can find the professional details of the concerned person.
• Call the company and seek the hiring manager's name if nothing works.

Also Read: How to write a cover letter enclosure in 2022?

Example of 'To Whom It May Concern' in Cover Letter

To Whom It May Concern: In response to the job opening posted on LinkedIn, I am thrilled to submit my application for the post of Sales Representative at Click Global Services. With a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration (Finance Majors) from the University of California, I have a prolific record of promoting digital products and IT services adhering to effective customer handling. I was awarded top sales representative in my previous company, making me a perfect fit for your company. I started as a Sales Assistant at Brain Maniacs Inc., where I sold the company's new products and educated potential customers via cold calling. I assisted the sales team in client relationship management, customer retention, and implementation of new sales strategies that boosted company sales by 15%. I also served as a Sales Representative at Constantine Co., where I managed a database of over 500 clients under the supervision of the sales manager and managed Salesforce to identify new business opportunities and Improvise customer feedback by 30%. Continuously learning to practice and implement new sales methodologies, I am obliged to apply at Click Global Services, the leading IT company that helps in modernizing traditional businesses globally. Given the role, I will ensure smooth execution of sales operations and complete client satisfaction to uplift sales margin. Enclosed for your consideration is my resume. I'd appreciate the opportunity to discuss my suitability and qualifications further with you on call or in person. Sincerely, Alison James

'To Whom It May Concern' Email Example

In case of an email where you have to seek more information, the letter can draft the message in the following manner.

To Whom It May Concern: I hope this email finds you well. I am writing this mail to find more information regarding the recent job advertisement in your organization. I stumbled across the ad for the Product Manager role on LinkedIn. From my years of experience in the same field, I think this opportunity would be an excellent fit for me. I think I will be able to contribute to the organization in the best way possible. Thank You for your time, and I hope to hear from you soon. Sincerely, Kate Maugham

Also Read: How to end a cover letter professionally in 2022?

When to Use 'To Whom It May Concern' Other Than Cover Letters?

Before shooting your email, always ask yourself who the person who will read my email is. If you fail to find an answer, write to whom it may concern .

But if you have access to their names, ensure to use their name.

There can be certain cases that will propel you to use to whom it may concern . Let us look at a few scenarios.

Reaching Out to Large Companies

It might happen that you have to reach out to large companies that have complex structures, and the only contact details you find on their website are contact@abccompany[dot]com. In such cases, address the letter with ' to whom it may concern. '

Filing Complaints

Filing complaints is usually not pleasant business. When you need to file a complaint against someone or something (such as an airline) it's best to keep things professional and formal with "to whom it may concern."

Writing a Letter of Recommendation

Since you don't know the person's name to whom you're writing the recommendation letter to, it is best to keep things formal with "to whom it may concern."

Writing a Letter of Introduction

You may use the To Whom It May Concern phrase at the beginning of your introductory letters when you want to introduce yourself to a mass of people, where you don't know everyone individually.

Writing a Prospecting Letter

When you write a prospectice letter, most often than not, these are cold touch-points. That means you don't know the person's name while you writing the letter to them.

In these type of situations you can use 'To whom it may concern' to keep things professional.

Key Takeaways

Now that you know when to use and not use to whom it may concern phrase, make your letter stand out and use the alternatives to create a better first impression.

Here are some significant points that you should keep in mind whenever you wonder how to write to whom it may concern .

• To whom it may concern is the salutation used to address business professionals in letters and emails.
• Use to whom it may concern phrase only when there is no alternative available .
• Always capitalize the first letter of each word and follow it with a colon rather than a comma.
• Do not use the to whom it may concern phrase while writing a cover letter or writing a letter on your behalf.
• Always try to obtain information to whom you are writing the email or letter.
• Make use of job networking sites like LinkedIn and visit the company's website .
• Use alternatives instead of to whom it may concern , as it is highly generic and overused.

If you have any queries about job recruitment, reach out to Hiration's Career Activator Platform , which has 24/7 chat aid and professional assistance.

You can also write to us at [email protected] .

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Best Ways To Use ‘To Whom It May Concern’

Quick Navigation:

• Why you should use ‘To Whom It May Concern’
• How to use ‘To Whom It May Concern’ in business correspondence

Example alternatives for ‘To Whom It May Concern’

It is important to include a greeting in all work-related letters and emails. Starting with ‘To Whom It May Concern’ is appropriate for many types of professional communication. This article will discuss the best way to use ‘To Whom It May Concern’ and when you can use a different greeting.

Why you should use ‘To Whom It May Concern’

‘To Whom It May Concern’ is a greeting you can use when you don’t know the name of the recipient. You can also use it when you’re sending a letter that several people may read. The ability to search for contact information on the internet has made ‘To Whom It May Concern’ less common, but it is still useful in many business settings, such as writing a letter of recommendation or cover letter. 

You should only use ‘To Whom It May Concern’ when you’re unsure of the name of person you need to address. If you do know the name, job title or department that will receive your letter, you can use a more personal introduction to create an immediate connection.

How to use ‘To Whom It May Concern’ in business correspondence

Here are five types of letters that work best when they begin with, ‘To Whom It May Concern:’

Cover letter Introduction letter Recommendation letter Prospecting letter Feedback letter

Cover letter.

When you apply for a job, several people might read your  cover letter  and resume, such as a human resources representative, hiring manager and supervisor. 

To ensure you address everyone that might review your cover letter, start it with ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ Using this general greeting can help you make a good first impression, especially if you are submitting your materials to a general human resources email address. 

Introduction letter

If you handle customer correspondence, you might receive emails from prospective clients that only use general company contact information. Since you won’t know specific names and titles, you should use a generic introduction when writing back. In your message, you can ask for details to use in future emails. 

To use a greeting that is as inclusive as possible, start your introductory message with ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ This professional greeting sets a businesslike tone for your correspondence and allows you to begin a new customer relationship on a positive note.

Recommendation letter

A colleague might ask you to write a letter of recommendation for a new job or educational opportunity. You may need to address a large group of potential recipients. In many cases, you will submit your recommendation through a digitized system where you won’t know the reader’s name. 

Since you should always include a greeting, even when delivering a letter to an automated system, start with ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ Using this general greeting allows you to address as many people as possible while providing a strong recommendation for your colleague.

Prospecting letter

If you work in sales or account management, one of your responsibilities might include prospecting new clients. When you first contact a prospect, you generally want to connect directly with the decision maker of the business.

If you have minimal information about the company but want to ensure that your prospecting letter reaches the right person, start your letter or email with ‘To Whom It May Concern.’

Feedback letter

As an employee, you might have to provide feedback about an internal initiative or company policy. In many cases, you can address your letter to the human resources department. You may need to include a wider group of recipients in your message. For example, the person who created the initiative may want to review your response in addition to human resources. 

To ensure that your letter applies to as many potential recipients as possible, address it, ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ Starting with this greeting involves all potential readers. 

In situations where you have more specific information about your recipient, you can use a more personal greeting, such as:

‘Dear [Name]’ example

‘dear [title]’ example, ‘dear [department]’ example.

Before sending a prospecting letter, you should research your potential clients. If you can determine exactly who you need to connect with, address the letter to a specific person. For example, you can address the letter ‘Dear Mr. Lee’ to get your prospect’s attention and initiate a more personal relationship immediately.

When you apply for a job, you want to make a positive impact on your potential employer. Addressing your cover letter to an individual’s job title gives you the opportunity to be more direct with your application materials. For example, you can start your cover letter with ‘Dear Hiring Manager’ to set a direct, professional tone when you apply for jobs. 

If you are recommending a junior colleague for an internal job opportunity, you might know which team will review your reference letter. For example, you can begin the letter with ‘Dear Sales Department’ to create a connection with the intended recipients.

Cover Letters 101: Should You Address Your Letter ‘To Whom It May Concern’?

W hen applying for jobs, the way you start your cover letter sets the tone for a good first impression. Many applicants wonder if they should stick with the old “To Whom It May Concern.” This phrase has been around for ages, but times have changed, and so have the expectations in the job market. Here’s why “To Whom It May Concern” might not be the best idea anymore and offers some smart alternatives to help your application catch an employer’s eye.

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Key Takeaways

• “To Whom It May Concern” might be considered outdated and overly impersonal in today’s job market.
• Personalizing your cover letter by addressing it to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail.
• There are several strategies to find the appropriate contact person if the job listing doesn’t provide a name.
• Alternatives to “To Whom It May Concern” can help make a positive impression on your potential employer.
• Tailoring your approach can enhance your career prospects and contribute to long-term wealth by increasing your chances of securing well-suited positions.

How To Make a Good Impression Beyond ‘To Whom It May Concern’

The job application process is your opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism, attention to detail and communication skills. Starting off on the right foot can have a positive impact on your career trajectory and, by extension, your long-term financial success. Here are some tips and alternatives to “To Whom It May Concern” that can help you make a lasting impression:

1. Do Your Homework

Before addressing your cover letter, take the time to research the company and find out who the hiring manager or the head of the department is. LinkedIn and the company’s website are excellent resources for this. Addressing the letter directly to this person shows that you’ve made an effort to understand the company and its team.

2. Use a Specific Job Title

If you cannot find a specific name, addressing the letter to a job title or department can still personalize your approach. For example, “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Human Resources Department” are preferable to the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.”

3. Opt for a Warm Greeting

In cases where a direct name or title isn’t available, consider starting with a warm, yet professional greeting. “Dear Team at [Company Name]” can convey both respect and a personal touch.

4. When in Doubt, Ask

If the job listing provides a contact number or email for queries, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for the name of the hiring manager. This not only provides you with the correct name but also demonstrates your proactive nature.

Alternatives to ‘To Whom It May Concern’

If “To Whom It May Concern” isn’t cutting it, try these more personal options. They show you’re paying attention and you care:

• “Dear Hiring Manager,”
• “Dear [Department] Team,”
• “Dear [Company Name] Team,”
• “Greetings,”

Adding a personal touch right from the start can make your cover letter shine. After you’ve picked your opening, don’t forget to personalize the rest of your letter too.

When ‘To Whom It May Concern’ Is the Right Choice

There are few situations in job applications where “To Whom It May Concern” might still fit. This can happen when you’re applying to a large organization where the hiring team is not specified and you’ve exhausted all resources trying to find a certain contact.

It can also be relevant when submitting general inquiries to a company’s career department without applying for a specific role. In these cases, “To Whom It May Concern” can act as a formal and respectful way to address your cover letter, showing that you’ve made an effort to be professional in the absence of those details.

Make Small Changes To See Big Results

Taking the time to personalize your cover letter is more than a mere formality; it’s an investment in your career. By showing that you care about the details and are genuinely interested in the position, you’re more likely to capture the attention of potential employers. This not only increases your chances of landing an interview but also positions you as a strong candidate in a competitive job market.

Choosing a different opening for your cover letter is a simple change that can have big rewards. It can help you stand out and show you’re serious about the job. This can lead to interviews and, eventually, job offers. Landing a job that matches your skills and goals can really boost your happiness at work and your financial security. Choosing to skip “To Whom It May Concern” could be a small step toward a bigger, better career .

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : Cover Letters 101: Should You Address Your Letter ‘To Whom It May Concern’?