"To Whom It May Concern" is a formal salutation used in written communication when the name of the recipient is unknown or when the letter or email is intended for multiple readers or an unspecified audience. It is commonly used in professional contexts such as letters of recommendation, formal complaints, letters of introduction, letters of interest, and job applications when the specific addressee is not known

Proper Usage

• Always capitalize the phrase as "To Whom It May Concern" and follow it with a colon.
• Double-space after the salutation before starting the body of the letter.
• Use it when addressing a nonspecific group or when the letter will be shown to various people.
• It is considered formal but somewhat old-fashioned and impersonal, so if possible, it is better to address a specific person or department by name or title

When to Use

• Letters of recommendation or reference that may be used by multiple recipients.
• Formal complaints directed at a company or organization.
• Letters of introduction or prospecting where the recipient is unknown.
• Job applications or cover letters when the hiring manager's name cannot be found

Alternatives

• Addressing a specific person by name and title if known.
• Using a job title or department name to make the greeting more personal.
• Avoid "Dear Sir or Madam" as it is also impersonal and can be inappropriate for some recipients

In summary, "To Whom It May Concern" remains a valid and respectful way to open formal correspondence when the recipient is unknown, but whenever possible, a more specific and personalized salutation is preferred for better engagement