How do you do? in a letter

[ohmyrichard]

Hi,everyone.
When I write to someone for the first time, can I say "How do you do?" at the very beginning of the letter?
Thanks.
Richard

[The French]

Hi,everyone.
When I write to someone for the first time, can I say "How do you do?" at the very beginning of the letter?
Thanks.
Richard

Hello, I am not a teacher,

but I think, this is better when you meet someone face to face, the word dear or hello is one of the best.

I believe the English people on this site give another words to begin your letter.

Have a nice day.

[misiania]

In informal letter to a friend I suppose you could use anything you like , but 'how are you doing' would sound better.
Is it the formal or informal letter you enquiring about?

Please note: I am not ateacher.

[pablo2607]

Hi,everyone.
When I write to someone for the first time, can I say "How do you do?" at the very beginning of the letter?
Thanks.
Richard

I suppose it depends on who you are writting to, of course, but no matter, to me it sounds corny, nor have I heard of anyone using this introduction. Personally I would say "How are (How're) you doing old buddy?".
On the "How do you do?" formula I would say "How do you do sir?, if you are trying to be formal. In any formal letter, the "Dear Sir" is always recomendable.
Bottom line, in a letter you can express yourself in any way you want as long as what you are trying to say is understood by the receiver.

[ohmyrichard]

In informal letter to a friend I suppose you could use anything you like , but 'how are you doing' would sound better.
Is it the formal or informal letter you enquiring about?

Please note: I am not ateacher.

It is a formal letter I will write to that person for the first time. I will try to be polite and formal.
Thanks.
Richard

[ohmyrichard]

I suppose it depends on who you are writting to, of course, but no matter, to me it sounds corny, nor have I heard of anyone using this introduction. Personally I would say "How are (How're) you doing old buddy?".
On the "How do you do?" formula I would say "How do you do sir?, if you are trying to be formal. In any formal letter, the "Dear Sir" is always recomendable.
Bottom line, in a letter you can express yourself in any way you want as long as what you are trying to say is understood by the receiver.

Thanks. I intend it to be right after the salutation "Dear Dr. Kaimer:".