Who to Address a Cover Letter to If Unknown
When you don’t know the name of the person who will be reading your cover letter, it’s important to still address it professionally. Here are some effective options:
1. Use a Generic but Professional Greeting
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear Recruitment Team,
- Dear [Department] Team, (e.g., Dear Marketing Team)
- Dear Human Resources Manager,
2. Avoid Outdated or Impersonal Greetings
- Avoid "To Whom It May Concern," as it can feel impersonal and outdated.
- Avoid "Dear Sir or Madam," which is also considered old-fashioned.
3. How to Find the Name (If Possible)
- Check the job posting carefully for contact details.
- Look on the company’s website or LinkedIn for the hiring manager or department head.
- Call the company’s front desk to ask for the name of the person responsible for hiring.
4. Example Opening Lines
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear Recruitment Team,
- Dear Customer Service Department,
Using a respectful and professional greeting sets a positive tone even when the recipient’s name is unknown. It shows your attention to detail and professionalism.
