Q's about resume building

Question

What is the most professional way to address an introductory letter for a resume? I was under the impression that 'Dear Sir or Madam' is the best, but my husband argues that 'To whom it may concern' is the way to go. Also, how should end it? Is it appropriate to say 'Sincerely'? Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

I don't like either greeting.  The best choice would obviously be to get the name of the person who makes the hiring decisions and tailer it to that person specifically.  

But if you are looking for a general term, I would try to stick with something that has more personality.  The resume is already very formal.  The introductory letter should have more personality and flair to get attention to read your resume.  That way you will kill 2 birds with one stone.  The introductory letter should make bold (but true) statements about yourself that will make you stand out.  Stay away from cliche phrases and boring material.  The resume, on the otherhand, should show your ability to formally convey information.  Unfortunately, you don't mention what industry or line of work you are intereseted in, so I don't have any specific examples of greetings.  But I can assure you that "Dear Sir or Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern" combined with a boring introductory letter, will insure that you fit in with every other person who submits, and that's not a good thing.

Answer 2

The cover letter you mean? It's always best to find out who the contact is and go with his/her name, address, title etc., but when I do not know that, I use the traditional..."To Whom It May Concern:"

And as far as the ending, I never use sincerely. I think sincerely sounds like something they teach you in grammar school. I always end with "Cordially".

Answer 3

To whom it may concern is the best option from the two, although if you know the name of the hiring person, it should be ‘T: THEIR NAME’

Also, ‘My Best Regards’ is a great way to close a cover letter.

My Best,

Michael Grant

http://www.yawzer.com

find a career – find an employee

Answer 4

Go with Dear Sir or Madam, it's more formal. "To whom it may concern" is generally used in authorization letters or transmittals.

Sincerely is the best way to end it. All others are used in personal letters.

goodluck.