Addressing your cover letter properly is crucial. It sets the tone for your job application and shows attention to detail. Here's how you should address your cover letter to ensure it's professional and personalized.
First, Track Down The Name
Obviously, it’s ideal to use the hiring manager’s name in your cover letter. So, the first thing you should do is try to track down the hiring manager’s name online (i.e., the company website, LinkedIn, etc.).
You can also call the company directly to ask for the name. Simply call up the company and say, “Hi, my name is ____ and I’m applying for a position at your company. Would it be possible for me to get the name of the hiring manager so I can address him or her in my cover letter?”
If All Else Fails, Use 'Dear Hiring Team'
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If the hiring manager’s name is nowhere to be found and the company is unwilling to give you his or her name, you should use “Dear Hiring Team” in your cover letter salutation. By addressing your cover letter to the hiring team, you increase your chances of getting it in front of the right pair of eyes.
This greeting is professional and inclusive and demonstrates your understanding that hiring decisions are often made by multiple people rather than a single individual. It also avoids outdated or overly generic salutations like "To Whom It May Concern," which can make your cover letter feel impersonal.
Why Can't You Use Someone Else's Name?
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But what if you know the name of someone else (not involved with hiring) who works at the company? Can you just address it to them instead?
Absolutely not!
“That person may not be the person that’s hiring, and they could easily throw [your cover letter] in the trash,” says J.T. O’Donnell, founder and CEO of Work It DAILY. “You don’t know if they’re going to forward it to the right person or not. You do not want to risk that.”
Using "Dear Hiring Team" ensures your cover letter remains both professional and targeted, even when you don’t have a specific name. While personalizing your salutation is always best, this approach keeps your application polished and respectful. So, if you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, don’t stress. Opt for "Dear Hiring Team" and focus on crafting a compelling disruptive cover letter that highlights your connection story and explains why you’re the best fit for the role.
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