Addressing a cover letter is very important and at the same time very crucial. If you’re applying for a couple of jobs at once and don’t know the hiring manager’s name and gender it can get difficult to address him or her.

Should you opt for a general greeting? For example “To whom it may concern” or “Dear hiring manager”, is there any option that we can consider in case of absence of gender and name?

Let us look at various situations to address cover letters.

Situation #1 when the recruiter’s name is mentioned

• Whenever possible, use the hiring manager’s first and last name, including the titles “Mr.” “Ms.” or “Dr.” whenever applicable.
• If their name is not included in the job listing it is advised to carry out some kind of research to know more about the recruiter. You could get in touch with the company to know more about the recruiter his designation and other things.

Situation #2 Addressing a cover letter to someone with a gender-neutral name

• Many times we come across people with gender-neutral names such as Taylor, Camron, and many such names what is to be done in such situations?

1) Include both first and last names in your greeting, without any title.

2) Search company websites or LinkedIn accounts to try and find a photograph or more details about the hiring manager to determine their gender.

Situation #3 Use appropriate titles

• Even though you’re 100% sure about the hiring managers gender and name, it is imperative to address them with appropriate titles such as “Miss” “Mrs.” “Dr.” “Mr.” etc. It is important to do proper research before addressing the hiring manager in a cover letter.
• Again, if you’re not sure about the gender or sex of the person you’re addressing your cover letter to, do not make assumptions. You don’t want to start off on the wrong foot by offending Mr. Tyler.

Situation #4 A cover letter without a name

• Sometimes, even after stalking a company’s website and all of their social media platforms, you just can’t figure out the name behind the mysterious “Hiring Manager” title.
• Even if you find yourself in this position, you should still try to be specific in your greeting. You have a few options here. You could
• address the head of the department for the position you’re applying for
• Address your cover letter using terms like “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Human Resources Manager”
• Just make sure that your cover letter shows that you put effort into addressing someone in particular, and you’ll be good to go.

Situation #5 Final touch

• It is important to be confident about your cover letter and make your first impression the best one without fail.
• Small mistakes in a cover letter can cost an interviewee a lot.
• The cover letter should be extremely concise, accurate and should interest the recruiter.

With the help of these simple tips and suggestions, we are sure you will be the best pick for any job.

P.S. Again, if you’re not sure about the gender or sex of the person you’re addressing your cover letter to, do not make assumptions.

We wish you all the very best and good luck in your future endeavors and hope you benefit from this article.