Examples where the phrase 'To Whom It May Concern' can be used It is essential in business communication to use correct names or a suitable alternative. If you are not entirely sure about the recipient's name, you should not use it. In such instances, it is appropriate to use 'To Whom It May Concern' as a salutation.
This makes it easier to address your correspondence correctly.ĭespite your best efforts, there could be times when you cannot find the exact name to address your letter. Because of the internet, there are now several ways to find out the name of the employer or hiring manager you need to contact. It was a challenge to find the correct names, job titles and email addresses of specific individuals. There was a time before the internet when business correspondence commonly used this salutation. This is a good neutral greeting that is professional and formal. Anyone could review it, and if you do not know the name or job title of the specific person you are sending the letter to, you could use the salutation, 'To Whom It May Concern'. Suppose you are writing a letter of recommendation for a colleague, for example. 'To Whom It May Concern' is a formal salutation usually used to head professional communications when you do not know the recipient's identity or you are not addressing one particular person. 'To Whom It May Concern' in business correspondence
Cover letters to whom it may concern how to#
In this article, we describe how to begin professional letters and business emails using this greeting, explain when and where you can use this phrase and discuss other salutations to consider in its place. There are several appropriate business greetings you can use, and the phrase 'To Whom It May Concern' is one of the most common. Using an appropriate and professional salutation sets the tone for the rest of the letter's subject matter and shows the recipient that you understand the basic rules of business etiquette.
It is important to include a suitable greeting at the beginning of business correspondence, such as a cover letter for a job opening or an email for a sales inquiry.