When writing a covering letter who do i write it to?

Question

I am apply for an advertised job with through an online application that also asks for cv and covering letter, i know its always best to put an actual name rather than sir/maddam, but i'm clueless as to whose name it should be!

Is it the managing director i should write it to? help!

now nobody go saying it should be mickey mouse!

i need serious answers please!

Answer 1

if you dont know the persons name then i would just put dear sir/madam

Answer 2

Dear Sir/Madam is fine, if you want to sound really professional, you could go for To whom it may concern.  Sounds a bit stuffy but it depends on the position you're going for.

Answer 3

Like what the others have suggested: Sir/Madam.

But those who would go the extra mile to get the job would actually ring up the and ask for the name of the correspondent (or even get to talk to him/her).

Answer 4

Dear Sir/ Madam

Answer 5

Sue G is right - unless you know the person's name, you MUST start the letter 'Dear Sir/Madam'.