Dear Sir/Madam vs To Whom It May Concern

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uktous

Senior Member
Joined
Nov 7, 2009
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Native Language
Japanese
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Japan
Current Location
UK
Hi,

Question1)
Should I use "Dear Sir/Madam" or "to whom it may concern" in a job application cover letter?

Question2) If both can be used, any difference between using them?

Thanks
 
Anglika

Anglika

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#1 Find out the name of the person to whom it should be sent and use the name. This will always be best practice.

#2 Only use "To Whom it May Concern " for documents such as refereences for which you cannot trace a name,
 
kfredson

kfredson

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Joined
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Academic
Anglika said:
#1 Find out the name of the person to whom it should be sent and use the name. This will always be best practice.

#2 Only use "To Whom it May Concern " for documents such as refereences for which you cannot trace a name,
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Yes, I would agree. But I would never object receiving a letter addressed to me as "Dear Sir/Madam." It is a quite respectful way to begin, should the name not be known.
 
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