You\u2019re in the midst of your job search and find an opportunity that sounds like a great fit. The trouble? The posting doesn\u2019t give you the hiring manager\u2019s name. Or, even if it does, do you use their first name \u2013 or \u201cMrs.\u201d \u201cMs.\u201d or \u201cMr.\u201d \u2013 in the salutation?<\/p>\r\n
Getting it right is critically important when you consider that this is the first thing a hiring manager will see when they receive your cover letter. Here are some tips from the cover letter writers<\/a> at ResumeSpice to help ensure you\u2019re off to the best start:<\/p>\r\n If you know a particular company culture is especially casual, it\u2019s reasonable to use first names. However, in most cases, you should take a more business-like approach and use a formal salutation. This means starting your letter off with \u201cDear Mr. Smith,\u201d or \u201cDear Ms. Carter.\u201d If the hiring manager is female, don\u2019t guess at marital status. Instead, always use \u201cMs.,\u201d unless there\u2019s another, more appropriate title, such as \u201cDr.\u201d<\/p>\r\n If a specific name isn\u2019t given, don\u2019t address your letter<\/a> with \u201cTo Whom it May Concern\u201d or \u201cDear Sir or Madam,\u201d which come off as dated. Instead, spend some time trying to find the hiring manager\u2019s name. You can do this in a few ways:<\/p>\r\nBe formal<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n
Avoid the generic<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n