Who to Address a Cover Letter To
The address on your cover letter is more than just a formality; it’s a direct line of communication that sets the tone for your entire application. Addressing your cover letter correctly can significantly increase your chances of making a positive impression. Knowing whom to address, and how, demonstrates that you’ve done your homework, and that you care enough to go the extra mile. Failing to address your cover letter properly, or worse, using the wrong salutation, can create a negative impression and may result in your application being overlooked. The key here is to show that you are professional and detail-oriented, the sort of person employers want in their workplace.
Researching the Hiring Manager
The ideal scenario is to address your cover letter to the hiring manager by name. This requires a bit of research, but it’s well worth the effort. By directly addressing the person who will be reading your application, you personalize your message and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role. It demonstrates initiative and attention to detail, qualities that employers highly value. If the job posting doesn’t explicitly name the hiring manager, you’ll need to do some digging. Look at the company’s website, check the ‘About Us’ or ‘Team’ pages, or review the job posting to see if any contact names are mentioned. You should leverage all the tools available to you.
Using LinkedIn to Find the Right Person
LinkedIn is an invaluable resource for job seekers. You can often find the hiring manager by searching for the company and looking at the ‘People’ section. Filter the results by job title or department to pinpoint the relevant individual. Once you’ve identified the person, review their profile to learn more about their background and experience. This information can also help you tailor your cover letter to resonate with the hiring manager, demonstrating your understanding of their needs and the company’s culture. Ensure you use this information in a thoughtful manner.
If the Name is Unknown
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the hiring manager’s name remains elusive. In this situation, there are still effective ways to address your cover letter without appearing impersonal. Acknowledging the difficulty in obtaining the information is an acceptable, and often effective, approach. You can express your dedication to the application and your enthusiasm for the role in this case. You should also consider where the company is located, as that can affect who reviews your cover letter.
Using a General Salutation
If you can’t find a specific name, opt for a general salutation that is still professional. Phrases like ‘Dear Hiring Manager,’ ‘Dear [Company Name] Team,’ or ‘Dear [Department] Hiring Committee,’ are all suitable alternatives. Make sure the general salutation is related to the company in question. These options maintain a professional tone and avoid the awkwardness of ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ If the company is less formal, then these choices may also work, but be aware of the impact on your application.
Avoid Outdated Greetings
Certain greetings, such as ‘To Whom It May Concern,’ are considered outdated and impersonal. While they were once standard, they now suggest a lack of effort and personalization. Similarly, avoid overly formal or generic greetings that might feel out of touch with contemporary business communication practices. Instead, focus on a salutation that directly addresses the recipient or the department.
When to Use ‘To Whom It May Concern’
In very rare circumstances, ‘To Whom It May Concern’ might be acceptable, but it should be your last resort. This might be appropriate for very formal situations or when submitting a general application to a large organization where the role is not specific. However, even in these cases, it’s always better to try to find a more specific contact. When you’re unsure, the general alternatives listed above are much better choices and will increase your chances of a positive review.
Cover Letter Structure for Unknown Recipients
Even if you don’t know the hiring manager’s name, you can still create a compelling cover letter. Start with a strong opening that highlights your interest in the role and the company. Then, emphasize your relevant skills and experience, providing specific examples of your accomplishments. If possible, mention something you know about the company and why you are interested in working there. In the closing, reiterate your interest and thank the reader for their time and consideration. The core content is the same whether you know the specific name, or not, but this structure allows you to make a strong impression.
Addressing the Cover Letter to the Hiring Manager
When you know the hiring manager’s name, address the cover letter directly to them. This shows that you have taken the time to find out who will be reading your application and increases the likelihood that they will read it carefully. Use the person’s full name and correct title. In the body of your cover letter, personalize your message by referencing something specific about the company or the role that interests you. This attention to detail makes a great impression.
The Importance of a Targeted Cover Letter
A well-targeted cover letter demonstrates your genuine interest in the specific role and the company. It allows you to tailor your message to the hiring manager’s needs and the company’s culture. By addressing the letter correctly, you show that you understand the importance of communication and have taken the time to tailor your application to a specific audience. This greatly increases your chances of getting noticed and securing an interview. It also makes you stand out against the competition.