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Should You Use “To Whom It May Concern” In Your Cover Letter

Recruiter-backed alternatives to 'To Whom It May Concern'. Learn how to personalize your cover letter with tailored greetings, and get tips on researching the hiring manager's name to make a strong, professional first impression.

4 months ago   •   6 min read

One of the hardest parts of writing a cover letter is getting the greeting right. After all, it’s a letter, so you have to address it to someone...

But who do you address it to? You may have heard that it’s not a good idea to use “to whom it may concern” in your cover letter. But if you can’t use that phrase, what should you use instead?

One easy answer is “Dear hiring manager.” It’s to-the-point and respectful without being as impersonal.

However, if you can find the person’s name, that’s even better— and these days, with all the information available on company websites and LinkedIn, people may expect that if you care about getting this job, you’ll do enough research to learn their name.

In this article, we’ll discuss when you might be able to get away with using “to whom it may concern,” why it’s usually a bad idea, alternatives to this phrase, and how to become an expert researcher to find the name of the person who will be hiring you.

Let’s get started!

When it’s ok to use a generic greeting like “to whom it may concern”

Although "To whom it may concern" is seen as as outdated or impersonal in modern job markets, there are specific situations where you may still want to use it:

Formal or traditional industries

In academia, where traditions are respected, using "To Whom It May Concern" demonstrates an understanding of and respect for established protocols.

Research the culture of the industry or organization. If their communication typically uses a formal tone, you’re good to go.

Large organizations with unknown recipients

When you’re applying to a multinational corporation where you’re not exactly sure who will be reviewing your letter, and the company's communication style is generic. In this case, you can also use “Dear Hiring Manager” or one of the other alternatives we suggest later in this article.

With large organizations, you can use “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Hiring Manager” as a safe option when the company structure is complex and you can’t identify a specific person. However, try to at least send your greeting to the department (e.g., "To Whom It May Concern in the Marketing Department").

When personalization is not possible

If the job listing provides no specific contact information and your research yields no results.

It's better to use a generic yet respectful greeting than to guess incorrectly. However, if you can find any information at all, drop the generic greeting like a hot potato.

In cultures where it’s the norm

In certain cultures or regions, formal greetings are still the norm, especially in conservative sectors.

Understand the larger cultural context of the company. In some global markets, "To Whom It May Concern" is still standard practice.

When not to use a generic greeting

Even though there are a few cases where you can get away with it, the majority of the time using "To Whom It May Concern" is not your best option. Here are some situations where you should avoid it at all costs:

In modern, informal industries

In tech startups or creative fields like advertising or design, where more casual and innovative cultures thrive.

Many modern industries value personality and creativity. Using a generic and formal tone in your cover letter can suggest a lack of effort or research in understanding the company's culture.

When information is available

If the job listing includes the name of the hiring manager or if you've found the hiring manager through research.

In these cases, not using the hiring manager’s name can come across as lazy or imply that you don’t pay attention to details.

Small to mid-sized companies

Smaller organizations where teams are closely-knit and the hiring process is personal.

Using a generic salutation in more personal settings can imply a lack of genuine interest in the company and its people— not a great look.

Companies that emphasize personal connection

Organizations that value individuality and personal connection, which is often highlighted in their job postings or company culture pages.

A generic greeting may raise red flags with these companies, who often look for candidates who live out their values of personalization and individuality.

To sum up: if you’re not 100% sure that you can use “To Whom It May Concern,” don’t use it.

The best alternatives for “to whom it may concern”

Even if you need to use a generic phrase, there are way better options for the beginning of your cover letter than “to whom it may concern” in most cases.

Your choice depends on the information you have about the job posting and how comfortable you are with using informal/personal language. Here are some alternatives worth considering:

“Dear Hiring Manager”

This is one of the best ways to address the reader of a cover letter when you don’t know the recipient’s name. It’s professional, maintains respect for their role, respects their privacy, and is widely accepted.

“Dear [Job Title]”

If you're applying for a specific role but don't have a name, addressing the cover letter to the job title (or the job title’s supervisor) can work.

While "Dear Hiring Manager" is a more widely accepted way to start, "Dear [Job Title]" is specific and directly addresses the role you’re applying for.

You can use this alternative when you're aware of the job title for which you're applying and the company’s org chart. For instance, "Dear Marketing Manager" when applying for a marketing position.

“Hello [Department Name]”

This one is a good choice when you know the department you're applying to but not the individual. It demonstrates that you've done some research to identify the relevant department.

Use this when you know the specific department you’re applying to but don’t know the name of the hiring manager. For example, "Hello Marketing Department" when applying for a marketing role.

“Dear [Company Name] [Department Name] Team”

When you want to address a group of people, such as the entire HR team or a department, this option works well. It shows that you recognize the collaborative nature of the workplace and hiring process.

Choose this when you believe your cover letter may be reviewed by a team or multiple individuals within the organization. For example, "Dear ABC Company HR Team."

“Greetings”

This is a versatile and friendly alternative that maintains a polite tone (while avoiding assumptions).

Use "Greetings" when you have very limited information about the hiring manager or when you want to maintain a neutral and respectful tone.

“Hello Hiring Team”

If the company you’re applying for has a very casual company culture, and you know that a team will be reviewing applications, you can acknowledge their collective effort with this casual and friendly greeting.

Make sure that the company truly supports a casual approach. In some industries (like finance or law) or more formal companies, this is too informal and may be seen as disrespectful.

Strategies for finding the hiring manager's name

For many cover letters, your best bet is to find the name of the person who will actually be reviewing your application. You can often find the hiring manager’s name by following these steps:

Start with the job posting

Review the job posting or advertisement carefully. Sometimes, the name or contact information of the hiring manager is provided. Look for any details that indicate who you should address your application to.

Check the company website

Visit the company's official website and navigate to the "About Us" or "Contact Us" section. Look for executive profiles, department heads, or a directory that may list the hiring manager's name.

Social media

Check the company's social media profiles, especially LinkedIn and Twitter, for any mentions or posts by the hiring manager. They may share updates or insights that can help you identify them. On LinkedIn, search for the company's page and explore employee profiles to identify the hiring manager or relevant department head. Sometimes, LinkedIn profiles include details about their roles.

(Pro tip: before you reach out on LinkedIn, make sure you run your profile through LinkedIn Review so you’re ready to impress your potential future boss!)

Company directory

Some organizations maintain an online company directory with contact information for employees. Search for this directory on the company's website and see if you can find the hiring manager's name and title.

Contact the HR department

If all else fails, you can call or email the company's HR department and politely inquire about the name of the hiring manager or the appropriate contact person for the job application.

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To Whom It May Concern: When And How To Use

What do you do if you need to write an email but don’t know the name of the recipient?

In this case, you may turn to the once-popular “ To Whom It May Concern ”.

Today, we are looking into how and when to use this phrase and even provide a sample cover letter starting with “To Whom It May Concern”.

Plus, we will give you several alternative greetings if you find “To Whom It May Concern” old-fashioned.

Table of Contents

How to write a To Whom It May Concern cover letter – example

An email starting with “To Whom It May Concern” is not particularly different from any other email you write.

The one small difference to note may be a difference in tone — an email that starts with “To Whom It May Concern” will typically be more formal than an email starting with “Hi”.

Moreover, when you start your email with “To Whom It May Concern”, you admit that you don’t know the person you are addressing.

This means that your email will probably include more general information and no personal references.

Here’s a quick example of how to use “To Whom It May Concern” in an email.

A cover letter using “To Whom It May Concern” as a greeting:

To Whom It May Concern: My name is John and I am writing in response to a job listing for Senior Sales Manager posted on your company’s website. As a professional sales manager with over five years of experience and a solid portfolio of big contracts and resultative marketing campaigns, I believe that I could be a suitable candidate for this position. Your job listing mentions that you are looking for someone with experience in IT sales and marketing — and this is the area I specialize in exclusively. Over the past three years, I’ve headed several big digital marketing campaigns for my current employer that have resulted in the rise of online engagement among our clients by over 50%. I have also raised the conversion rate for our promotional listings by 20% over the past six months. I believe that my proven track record of successful marketing projects, professional commitment and work ethic make me a candidate worth considering. I am sure that I can become a valuable asset in your current marketing initiatives and would love to contribute to your company’s success. I am looking forward to your feedback on my application for the Senior Marketing Manager position. Please let me know if you have any further questions or would like to see my marketing portfolio. Please find my resume attached to this email. Thank you for your time and for considering my application, Sincerely, Mark Rivers

Here’s how to write a cover letter .

When to use “To Whom It May Concern”

“To Whom It May Concern” may sound a bit outdated and the phrase is used much less often now than before.

However, according to a 2020 survey of over 1,000 hiring managers , 83% of them say that addressing a cover letter with “To Whom It May Concern” will have no impact on their hiring decision.

Here are some typical instances for when you might want to turn to “To Whom It May Concern”:

Cover letter

A cover letter is typically read by a number of people: from HR managers to heads of departments and even the company director.

As you may not be able to “predict” who will be reading your email, you may want to start your email with “To Whom It May Concern”.

To Whom It May Concern: I know that one of Company X’s current goals is to create a centralized hub for all things medical-related online. So this is an incredible opportunity to build a one-of-a-kind online database for patients and healthcare providers. And it’s an excellent fit for my professional and personal interests. To make an impact, I’d like to apply everything I’ve learned about internet growth marketing and search engine optimization to this effort.

Check out our post on What is the purpose of a cover letter ?

Reaching out to a new client

If you send an email to a new client you may want to start it with “To Whom It May Concern”.

However, make sure to use this opportunity to find out the client’s name for future correspondence.

To Whom It May Concern My name is Martha Stuart, and I’m a sales representative at MailDuck, a company that makes it simple to mail customized postcards from a mobile device. Since you recently showed an interest in finding out more about MailDuck, we thought we’d provide you with further details about what we do and why we’re the best service. Please find attached our products and competitive prices. If you sign up before the end of the month, you can save 40% on your first purchase! I hope to get a response from you soon!

Project or company feedback

If the purpose of your email is to get feedback that might be read by multiple people or departments it makes sense to use a generic phrase like “To Whom It May Concern” to start your email .

To Whom It May Concern Thank you for staying over the weekend to assist customers with the billing issue we faced. Our engineers are working around the clock to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Thank you for standing with us in these times of trouble. Your commitment is duly noted. Company X will never forget your contribution to its growth, and we’ll surely compensate you accordingly.

Filing a complaint

If you are writing an email to complain about a product, service or somebody’s work you may want to use “To Whom It May Concern” to avoid pinpointing a specific person.

To Whom It May Concern This letter is to inform you that on November 5, 2018, I purchased spoiled goods. I was assured that the ordered items would arrive in good condition at the time of my purchase. Unfortunately, they arrived spoiled instead. Please find the attached photo and the confirmation of delivery. Do investigate this and either issue a refund or resend the product. I appreciate your time and consideration on this matter. Sincerely, Matha Stuart

Letter of introduction

If you’re writing a letter of introduction to someone you don’t yet know you may use to address your email.

Once again, make sure to ask for the person’s name so that you can address them by the proper name and your next email.

To Whom It May Concern I’m writing to introduce you to Matha Stuart, who I’ve worked with at Company X. As you may already know, I serve as the organization’s Managing Director and collaborated with Matha on many projects. She has more than ten years of experience in the industry and is a fantastic manager. Matha hopes to relocate to Los Angeles. And she would be grateful for any advice you could give her regarding how to look for a job, as well as any assistance you could offer. Please find her resume attached here, and feel free to reach out to her at [email protected] or (555) 231-6587 with any questions. I appreciate your help in advance. Sincerely, John Brady

Prospecting emails

A lot of businesses send out prospects and emails and letters to get in touch with new clients.

As you don’t know the name of the person you are right into, it’s acceptable to use “To Whom It May Concern” in this case.

However, if it is at all possible, do your best to find out the name of the person who will be reading your email.

This will make a much better impression and increase your chances of landing a contract with this client.

To Whom It May Concern I can see from your website that you’re trying to get more traffic to your website. Without knowing the specifics of your business strategy, I am confident our SEO strategy can be integral to your success. I have been following your company for a while now. But you might not be familiar with Company X. Our services focus on three primary objectives: Benefit 1 Benefit 2 Benefit 3 When would you be available for a quick conversation to discuss the future of MailDuck and how we might help? Best, Signature

Related: How to Write a Professional Email

How to avoid using “To Whom It May Concern”

It’s best to only use the generic “To Whom It May Concern” if you can’t find the name of the person you are writing to.

The best possible way to address the email is by using the name of the person you are writing to.

For instance, if you are sending a job application, do your best to learn the name of the hiring manager. Here are just a few ideas on how to do that:

1. Look through the job listing

Quite often, you will be able to find the name of the hiring manager or employer in the job description or job listing itself.

2. Check the website

If you can’t find the name of the contact in the job description, check the company website.

Often, companies will have a page dedicated to their team where you will easily find the name of the hiring manager.

3. Ask your employer

If you still haven’t found the name of the person you should be addressing, consider calling the company and checking with the reception.

You can try to explain your situation and say you are looking for the name of the hiring manager.

If you’ve tried all of this and you still don’t know who you should be addressing, you may have to turn to “To Whom It May Concern” or a similar generic greeting.

How to use “To Whom It May Concern?”

You can use the phrase “To Whom It May Concern” at the beginning of a letter or email – or other forms of correspondence — when you are not sure about the name of the person you should be addressing.

This might happen at many points in your job search.

• For example, you might be sending a cover letter, letter of recommendation, or other job search materials to someone whose name you do not know.
• Note that when you address a letter or email with “To Whom It May Concern”, the phrase should be capitalized and followed by a colon.
• As we’ve mentioned above, “To Whom It May Concern” is a rather outdated expression.

While you can still use it, there are also more modern alternatives that you may want to consider.

Please find some options below.

To Whom It May Concern Alternatives

Here are just a few ideas of greeting that you can use instead of “To Whom It May Concern”:

Here are some options:

• Dear Hiring Committee
• Dear Hiring Team
• Dear HR manager
• Dear HR representative
• Dear Human Resources Team
• Dear Recruiting Manager
• Dear Recruiting Team
• Dear (name of department) Manager
• Dear (name of department) Team

You can also use a general greeting that is meant for a group of people.

For instance, if you are reaching out to someone in your network for help with the job search, you can start your letter or email with “Dear Friends and Former Colleagues” or “Dear Friends and Family” and so on.

Summing things up

So, here are a few key take-aways about using “To Whom It May Concern” in emails:

• You can address an email with “To Whom It May Concern” when you don’t know the name of the person you are writing to: for instance when applying for a job.
• In most cases, you should do your best to find out the name of the person who will be reading your email. This will let you avoid the more generic and outdated “To Whom It May Concern”. Try checking the website of the company you are emailing, their social media pages or even consider calling the reception.
• There are alternatives to using “To Whom It May Concern”. Start your email with a simple “Hello” or a more specific “Dear Hiring Manager” — and so on.
• You may also want to start an email with “To Whom It May Concern” when you don’t want to address a specific person — for instance, when filing a formal complaint.
• Use “To Whom It May Concern” when writing an email to a group of people instead of a specific individual — for instance, when giving feedback.

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To Whom It May Concern: How (Not) to Use It in Your Cover Letter

When writing a cover letter or business email, you might be tempted to use the generic "To Whom It May Concern" salutation. However, this outdated greeting can make your message seem impersonal in today's professional world.

While "To Whom It May Concern" is still acceptable in some situations, it often implies you didn't take the time to find the right contact person or are sending a mass email rather than a tailored message.

This article will explain when it's appropriate to use "To Whom It May Concern", provide alternatives for your cover letter or email greeting, and share tips on finding the right person to address to make a stronger first impression.

When Is It Appropriate to Use "To Whom It May Concern"?

There are still some scenarios where using this generic salutation is appropriate when writing business correspondence. One instance is when you are sending a letter of recommendation or reference and you don't know the recipient's name or title. In this case, using "To Whom It May Concern" as the greeting can be used, as the recommendation letter may be passed on to various people

Another situation where "To Whom It May Concern" is acceptable is when you are writing to a company or department and don't have a specific contact person or point of contact. If you are unable to find the name of the person you are addressing, this generic greeting that can be used.

In general, formal documents that you intend to send to an institution or company can start with this greeting if they are not meant to introduce yourself. For example, filling a complaint, a job verification letter, or the recommendation letter mentioned above. If you do not know the recipient, as long as you keep it formal , the greeting is not a huge deal in these types of messages.

However, applying for a job is a much more personal matter, and avoiding being generic can make you stand out. It is not totally wrong to start a cover letter for a job with “To whom it may concern”  if no name is provided in the job posting and you can't find one after carefully reviewing the job posting, but it is certainly not the best move. 

How to Format "To Whom It May Concern" Correctly

Here's how to format "To Whom It May Concern" correctly in your letter or email:

• Capitalize the first letter of each word in the phrase "To Whom It May Concern". While this may not be grammatically necessary since it's not a proper noun or title, it's considered standard practice and helps maintain a formal tone.
• Use a colon, not a comma, after the phrase "To Whom It May Concern". The colon signifies that the salutation is complete and the body of your letter or email is about to begin.
• Double space before beginning the body of your letter, email, or cover letter. This helps visually separate the salutation from the main content and improves readability. In some cases, such as when the body of your letter is very short, it's acceptable to single space for cosmetic reasons.

Why You Should Avoid "To Whom It May Concern" in Your Cover Letter

When applying for a job, your cover letter is often the first impression you make on hiring managers and recruiters. As mentioned before, using a generic greeting like "To Whom It May Concern" may come across as lazy and impersonal, suggesting that you didn't take the time to find the right person to address.

Today, with internet access and professional networking sites like LinkedIn, it's usually possible to find a specific person to address by name in email or letter. Taking a few extra minutes to research the company and find the hiring manager or recruiter responsible for the position can make a significant difference in how your application is perceived.

If you can't find and don't know the name of the person you should address, consider using alternatives like "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department] Team". These greetings are more engaging and targeted than "To Whom It May Concern" while still maintaining a professional tone suitable for business correspondence.

What to Write Instead of "To Whom It May Concern" in a Cover Letter

Let’s expand on some possible alternatives to replace “To Whom It May Concern”, so that you have an arsenal of less formal options for when you are writing your next cover letter.

• Dear [Hiring Manager's Name]: Take the time to look up the name of the recruiter or hiring manager online. Check the job listing, company website, or LinkedIn to find the right person to address your cover letter to. Using their name shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.
• Dear [Department] Team: If you can't find the hiring manager's name, you can address your cover letter generally to the most relevant team, such as "Dear Marketing Team" or "Dear Human Resources Team." This approach still demonstrates that you've tailored your application to the specific department you'd be working with.
• Dear [Job Title] Hiring Manager: Another option is to reference the position you're applying for in your salutation. For example, "Dear Marketing Coordinator Hiring Manager" or "Dear Social Media Intern Hiring Manager." By using the job title or department, you show that you've carefully considered how your skills align with the role

Other Cover Letter Salutation:  FAQs

There are many different ways in which you can start a cover letter, and so, there are many different questions that can arise. Here are some of them.

How do I find the hiring manager's name and email?

To find the hiring manager's name, start by carefully reviewing the job posting for any mention of the person you should address your application to. If no name is provided, search the company website or LinkedIn for the relevant department head or recruiter. You can also try contacting the company, either calling or sending an email, and asking for the name of the person handling the position you're applying for. 

Is it acceptable to use "Dear Sir or Madam" in a cover letter?

While "Dear Sir or Madam" is a traditional generic greeting, it's best to avoid using it in modern business correspondence. This salutation, just like “To Whom It May Concern”, may come across as outdated and impersonal, and it also assumes the recipient's gender. Instead, opt for a more inclusive and targeted greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department] Team".

What's the best generic greeting to use if I don't have a name?

If you can't find the hiring manager's name or email, the best generic greeting to use in your cover letter is "Dear Hiring Manager." This salutation is professional, concise, and targeted to the person responsible for reviewing your application. Other acceptable options, as discussed above,  include  "Dear [Department] Team" or "Dear [Job Title] Hiring Manager".

To Whom It May Concern: Conclusion

To sum up, while "To Whom It May Concern" has been a standard salutation for business correspondence when you don't know the recipient's name, it's important to understand when it's appropriate to use and when it's better to opt for an alternative.

When it comes to your cover letter, it's crucial to make every effort to find the full name of the specific person you want to address. Tailoring your salutation to the hiring manager, recruiter, or relevant department head shows that you've taken the time to research the company and are genuinely interested in the position. If you can't find a name, opt for a more targeted greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager" rather than the generic "To Whom It May Concern."

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and demonstrate your fit for the role. By avoiding generic salutations and instead tailoring each cover letter to the specific job and company, you'll set yourself apart from other applicants and increase your chances of having a successful process. So, even if you don't have a name, take the extra step to personalize your greeting and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

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Perfect Cover Letter Salutations: Start Strong

11 min read · Updated on April 24, 2024

Greet your future employer professionally with these cover letter salutations

Cover letters – some recruiters love them; some recruiters hate them. Unfortunately, you'll rarely know which type of recruiter you're contacting, so the safest bet is always to send one, just in case. 

The aim of a cover letter is to make the reader want to find out more about you, so in this article, we're looking at starting strong. 

Which are the best cover letter salutations to make a great first impression?

What is a cover letter salutation?

When we say “salutation,” we mean the opening line of the letter where you greet the person you're writing to. For example, when you write to thank your aunt for the jumper she knitted for Christmas, you might use “Dear Aunt Betty” as your salutation. These days, the salutation may refer to the opening of an email as much as to the opening of a handwritten or printed letter. 

While cover letter salutations generally refer to the opening line of your epistle, some people also refer to the sign-off as a salutation as well, so we'll look at that at the end of the article. 

Considerations when choosing cover letter salutations

A cover letter is a formal business document that you use to try to make yourself more memorable. Remember, though, you want to be remembered for the right reasons and not the wrong ones! 

Starting your letter “Yo!” or “Hey” doesn't convey the impression of a competent professional who knows the unspoken rules of office writing etiquette. 

While not everyone is a natural writer, relying instead on personality, speech, and body language, cover letters depend very much on the written word. In fact, a cover letter, along with your resume, is part of your personal sales brochure. You need to choose the right words to sell yourself effectively. 

Stick to these guidelines, and you can't go far wrong.

Keep it formal and professional

Your tone should be aligned with the tone you'd use when speaking to a teacher, religious leader, or grandma, not the tone you'd use with your mates or kid brother. This is the first impression you'll make on your potential employer, so it's important to show that you can communicate professionally , with respect, and in line with workplace norms. 

Personalize wherever possible

Bonus points if you know, or can find out, the name of the person who will be reading the letter. If you can address them by name, you're instantly showing that you've made the effort, done your research, and have taken the time to write a personalized letter rather than firing the same one off to multiple vacancies. 

Always use a salutation

Even if you can't find out the recipient's name, never leave the greeting line blank. It conveys the impression of someone who lacks attention to detail or is just plain lazy. Not a great impression to create on someone you need to impress! 

This doesn't just apply to the cover letter salutation but to the entire document. Punctuation is important as it enables your reader to accurately interpret your meaning. Use capital letters for names and add a comma after the salutation. Get a trusted friend or family member to check over your letter when it's written to help you give it the polish it needs. 

Options for cover letter salutations

Let's take a look at some different salutations you could use on your cover letter. 

Dear Mr Donnelly 

Addressing the hiring manager by name is the ideal option. If it's not given in the job posting or provided by the person connecting you, it's fine to resort to good old Google. You may find their name on the company website or be able to track them down on LinkedIn. It's also perfectly acceptable to contact the company directly and ask them who you should address your application to.

If you're lucky enough to know the name of the hiring manager, you should always use it in the cover letter salutation. Bear these considerations in mind, though: 

Double and triple check the spelling – even the most common names sometimes have unconventional spellings 

Default to “Mr,” “Mrs,” or “Miss” plus their surname and use the generic “Ms” if you're not sure whether “Mrs” or “Miss” would be most appropriate

Reflect the gender-neutral title “Mx” if that's what you find online or on the job advert

Dear Doctor Foster

If the recipient has a professional title, it's recommended you use that instead of “Mr,” “Mrs,” or “Miss.” Examples could include “Dear Professor Dumbledore,” “Dear General Eisenhower,” or “Dear Doctor House.” 

While the formal “Dear Ms Farrell” is the preferred and most formal option, if you only have the hiring manager's first name, it's perfectly acceptable to use it to open the letter. Again, check the spelling. A slightly less formal salutation here isn't a reason to take a less formal tone throughout the rest of the letter, however. This is a suitable salutation for a job application email, as you can get away with a slightly more relaxed approach in an email.

Dear HR team

If you need a greeting for a cover letter to an unknown recipient, this is a popular option. It's not ideal, but your letter is likely to be forwarded to the right department at least. If you can't find the name of the hiring manager, this is a viable Plan B. 

Dear hiring manager

This is an alternative cover letter greeting when you have no name available. It's better than leaving a blank space, but it's far from warm and personal. Additionally, your letter may not find its way to the right person if the company has different teams hiring for different roles. Try to avoid this unless you've run out of other options.

Dear Sir / Madam

This cover letter salutation is falling out of favor. It's not just impersonal; it doesn't even address a specific team or department. Still, it's better than an overly casual greeting or a blank space. 

How NOT to address a cover letter

As we've already said, there are some greetings that are just too informal to use as cover letter salutations. There are others, however, that tread a very fine line. We'd advise avoiding these openings, as they're either too colloquial or too stuffy. 

To whom it may concern

We're not in the 19th century anymore. Trim your whiskers and relegate this stuffy greeting to history, it's too impersonal even for the most uptight offices. 

Using “dear” on its own, with no name or further greeting attached, gives the wrong vibe. It sounds like a combination of your old aunt, someone unfamiliar with the English language, and someone who's forgotten to fill in a blank on their template. Literally, anything is better than nothing after the word “dear.”

Hi, hello, hi there!

While these cover letter salutations certainly aren't stuffy or over-formal, they fall too far in the other direction. They're friendly and casual but too much for an initial introduction. Save these for the interview. 

Expert tip: Read this article to find out more about cover letter mistakes to avoid: 10 of the Worst Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid  

Cover letter closing salutations

How you end is just as important as how you begin. After all, you want to end on a high! Before you come to an abrupt end, you'll want to do both of these things: 

Thank the reader for their time and consideration 

Add a call to action, for example, directing them to look at your resume or give you a call

Cover letter salutations to close 

You've started strong and used the body of the email to convince the hiring manager that you're the ideal candidate for the role. Now, it's time to choose your sign-off. 

Yours sincerely, yours truly

These two phrases should be your go-to sign-offs for a formal business letter. If you've started your letter with the recipient's name, choose sincerely; otherwise, choose truly. 

Best regards, kind regards, regards

These are all acceptable closing phrases but better suited to an email than a full letter. They veer towards the casual and aren't generally considered the best letter-writing etiquette. 

Respectfully

This is a polite way of signing off a letter, although not especially conventional or formal. While it's better than no closing at all, it would be wiser to choose a more formal option. 

How NOT to sign off a cover letter 

Just as there are ways not to start a cover letter, there are ways not to sign off. 

Well, it's polite but way too informal. “Thank you” would be better, but a line within the body of the letter saying that you appreciate the time they take to consider your application would be best. 

Just no. You're not taking leave of a friend you've just dropped in on; you're addressing your potential future employer. A more formal and respectful tone is needed. 

However you choose to end your cover letter, remember to finish with your name – and leave space above to sign it if you intend to print it out.

Cover letter examples

Below you'll find two cover letter examples with strong salutations, one a traditional letter and one an email, that you can use for inspiration. 

Traditional cover letter example

Dear Ms Searle, 

Re: Sales Manager vacancy 

Having seen your advertisement for a Sales Manager on LinkedIn, I would like to outline my professional experience and strong track record. I believe I can make a very significant contribution to Acme Corp.

In addition to extensive experience in a sales environment, I also have a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and a proven ability to meet targets. As you will see from my enclosed resume, I am a natural people person, communicating effectively with a diverse range of people and demonstrating excellent negotiation and influencing skills. My leadership abilities mean that I am able to successfully engage and motivate teams – my current team has surpassed its Q1 targets by 23%. 

I am driven, ambitious, and keen to progress my career in a growing and innovative business such as Acme Corp. I am confident that my strong work ethic, combined with my sales results and integrity, will enable me to play a key role in your success. 

Please do not hesitate to call me at 555-555-5555 so we can arrange an interview to discuss my application in greater depth. I appreciate your consideration. 

Yours sincerely,

Email cover letter example 

Dear Liz, 

Re: Assistant Security Manager vacancy (ref: 12345)

Having read your advertisement for an Assistant Security Manager with interest, I am writing to outline my extensive professional experience. I believe that I possess the talents necessary to make a positive contribution to your hotel.    

I have a comprehensive understanding of security and a commitment to exceptional service. As a Police Officer, I led teams of up to 6 personnel, overseeing security patrols and managing performance. Colleagues would recommend me for my ability to build and motivate teams to achieve exceptionally high standards and positive outcomes. 

As a manager, I take pride in providing training and development opportunities across the team to improve individual skill levels and ensure the achievement of organizational objectives.

The position at Acme Hotel is particularly appealing to me as I believe it will make the best possible use of my security and leadership skills whilst providing opportunities for further development. 

Please do not hesitate to call me at 555-555-5555 so we can arrange an interview to discuss my application in greater depth. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards, 

Choose the right cover letter salutations to set the right tone

As you can see, there are several options for opening and closing a cover letter. Make sure you choose one that is professional, has the right amount of formality, and shows you understand corporate communication. 

At TopResume, we create impactful resumes that land jobs. If you need help with your cover letter, we can do that, too! Why not contact us for a strong start on your journey towards a new career? 

Recommended reading: 

Resume vs Cover Letter: How They're Different

What is the perfect cover letter length?

How to Tailor Your Cover Letter for Each Job Application

Related Articles:

How to Maximize Your Resume Action Words to Wow the Employer

Resume Spelling and Accent Explained

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

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To Whom It May Concern: Definition, Synonyms, and Examples

Hannah Yang

Whenever you write a professional letter or email, it’s important to start with the right salutation.

One common professional greeting is the phrase “To Whom It May Concern.” So what exactly does this phrase mean, and when is it appropriate to use it?

This article explains the meaning of “To Whom It May Concern,” offers some alternatives to consider, and gives you examples of this phrase in action.

To Whom It May Concern Definition

To whom it may concern meaning, how to format “to whom it may concern”, is it who, whom, or whomever it may concern, to whom it may concern alternatives, when to write “to whom it may concern”, to whom it may concern examples, conclusion on to whom it may concern.

“To Whom It May Concern” is a greeting used at the beginning of a letter or email when the identity of the reader is unknown. It functions as a generic salutation that can be addressed to anybody reading the letter.

You can use “To Whom It May Concern” whenever you’re writing a letter and you don’t know who the recipient will be.

For example, you might use this greeting when you’re writing a cover letter for a job application and you don’t know the name of the person who will be reviewing your letter. It’s safer to write “To Whom It May Concern” than to address your letter to the wrong person.

Before the advent of the digital age, “To Whom It May Concern” was a common greeting in professional correspondence. It was a lot harder to look up the names of specific people at companies and organizations without access to the internet.

These days, however, it’s a lot easier to look up the name of the person you’re writing to, whether it’s a hiring manager, a prospective client, or the head of a department or committee. As a result, “To Whom It May Concern” has started to feel like a stuffy and old-fashioned phrase.

As a good rule of thumb, you should avoid writing “To Whom It May Concern” whenever you can use a more modern alternative.

It’s standard practice to capitalize the first letter of each word in the phrase “To Whom It May Concern.”

You should follow the phrase with a colon, rather than a comma.

The salutation of a letter should always have an entire line to itself. Then skip the next line and start the first paragraph of your letter on the line after that.

The correct phrase should always be “To Whom It May Concern,” not “To Who It May Concern” or “To Whomever It May Concern,” which are both grammatically incorrect.

To Who It May Concern

Who and whom are both pronouns, but they’re used in different ways. Who refers to the subject of a sentence, while whom refers to the object of a sentence.

In this case, consider the question: “ Whom might this letter concern?” The subject of this question is the letter, while the object of this sentence is the person the letter concerns.

Because “To Whom It May Concern” refers to the object of the sentence (the reader), not the subject of the sentence (the letter), it is grammatically incorrect to use who instead of whom .

To Whomever It May Concern

Whomever and whom are both object pronouns, so they could both be acceptable in the sentence “ Whom might this letter concern?”

However, “To Whom It May Concern” is a standard phrase that people are used to seeing, so using a new variation will look strange and unprofessional. As a result, it’s considered incorrect to use “To Whomever It May Concern.”

If you don’t like the idea of using “To Whom It May Concern” at the beginning of your letters, you’re not alone. In many contexts, this phrase can feel overly formal or even outdated, so it’s becoming increasingly common to use synonyms instead.

Here are four common alternatives you can use instead.

1. “Dear/Hello/Hi [Name of Person You’re Addressing]”

It’s always better to address a letter to a specific person than to leave the greeting generic. Avoid the mistake of using “To Whom It May Concern” when you should already know whom your letter will concern.

Personalizing your letter for a single contact person proves you did your research and looked up who you’re writing to. It also shows that you respect the recipient of your letter enough to acknowledge them.

If you’re writing a cover letter, for example, you can comb through the job description to see who the role reports to. Many job descriptions include the name of either the hiring manager or the person who will be your future boss.

You can also check the company’s website to find the right name to use. Professional networking websites like LinkedIn can also provide you with the right name.

When all else fails, you can contact one of the company’s customer service representatives to ask if they’ll disclose the name of the hiring manager. Going the extra mile to personalize your letter will help you make a positive first impression right off the bat.

2. “Dear/Hello/Hi [Mr./Mrs./Ms./Dr./Professor] [Last Name]”

If you’re writing informally, it might be fine to address someone simply by their first name. If it’s a more formal letter, however, it might be safer to use that person’s title, followed by their last name.

However, this option can be risky. It’s important to be careful not to use the wrong title for the person you’re writing to.

You want to avoid calling someone “Mr.” or “Mrs.” if they prefer to go by “Dr.” You should also be careful to avoid misgendering the person you’re addressing, so try to avoid using gendered language without double-checking their preferences.

3. “Dear/Hello/Hi [Role of Person You’re Addressing]”

If you can’t find a name to address your letter to, you can use a job title or role instead.

For example, many job applicants start their cover letters with the phrase “Dear Recruiter,” “Dear Search Committee,“ “Dear Recruiting Department,“ “Dear Recruiting Manager,“ “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Hiring Team.”

If you’re writing to a customer service team, you can use “Dear Customer Service Manager“ or another equivalent.

If you’re writing to a team or a large group of people, you can use a simple “Hi team,” “Dear [name of the team],” “Hi all,” or “Hi everyone.”

If you’re writing to your network of contacts, you can even use “Dear Friends” or “Dear Friends and Family.“

4. “Hello/Hi There/Greetings”

In the twenty-first century, it’s becoming increasingly common to go with a simple salutation like “Hello,” “Hi there,” or “Greetings.” These are all friendlier, more casual ways to begin a letter or email.

This informal greeting will make your letter feel more personalized and modern than using “To Whom It May Concern.”

Here are four common situations where it’s appropriate to use “To Whom It May Concern.”

1. Cover Letter

Many job applications require you to write a cover letter explaining why you’re a good fit for the role.

Often, there are many people who read a cover letter: a recruiter, a hiring manager, the person the role reports to, and more. If you don’t know who exactly will be reviewing your cover letter, it’s standard to open your letter with “To Whom It May Concern” as a greeting to all potential readers.

As we mentioned earlier, you should always try to research the name of the person who will be reading your cover letter and address them by name if possible. “To Whom It May Concern” should be your last resort.

2. Recommendation Letter and 3. Referral Letter

If you work in an academic environment, a student might ask you to write them a recommendation letter for a job or school application.

In corporate settings, a colleague might ask you for a recommendation or referral to a different job opportunity.

Both of these situations might require you to address a letter to someone you don’t know, and it’s often hard to find the name or title of the person who will be reading your letter. In this scenario, it’s perfectly acceptable to use “To Whom It May Concern” instead of a more personal greeting.

4. Letter to a Prospective Client

If you’re in a client-facing role, you might have to contact potential clients to see if they are interested in your products or services.

When you’re reaching someone who makes decisions for an entire company, team, or organization, you might not know the name of the individual in charge until after they reply to your letter.

It’s reasonable to use “To Whom It May Concern” when writing to prospective clients whose names you don’t know. However, you should also consider using a more modern greeting, such as a simple “Hello.”

Let’s look at some examples of how to use “To Whom It May Concern” in action.

Example 1: Cover Letter

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing to express my interest in the summer internship program at [Company Name].

I learned about your company through the student career center at my school and through speaking to other students who have interned with your company. I am passionate about the work you do, and I believe that I could be a great fit for your team.

Example 2: Academic Recommendation Letter

It is with much enthusiasm that I recommend [Student’s Name] for admission at your institution.

I have been [Student’s Name]’s English instructor for the past two years. She has been a wonderful participant in my classes, and she has demonstrated exceptional writing skills.

Example 3: Job Referral Letter

I am writing to recommend [Colleague’s Name] to your company. I have worked with him for the past seven years at [Current Company], where I was his manager. He is a dependable and hardworking colleague who would be an asset to any team.

Example 4: Prospecting Letter

I’m a big fan of your organization’s work, and I was wondering if you might be in the need of [Professional Services]. I’m a freelance [Job Title], and I’m writing to introduce myself and to tell you about the services my company offers. I would love the opportunity to work with you.

A letter or email is often your first impression. Make the right impression by running your emails through a grammar checker like ProWritingAid .

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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Sample Letter Hub

Resignation Letter To Whom It May Concern

By Sikandar Ali

May 16, 2024

Are you planning to resign from your job but don’t know how to write a resignation letter? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with templates, examples, and samples of a resignation letter to whom it may concern.

A resignation letter to whom it may concern is a formal letter that an employee writes to inform their employer that they are resigning from their position.

The purpose of this letter is to provide a clear and concise statement of the employee’s intention to leave the company and to ensure that the employer has a record of the resignation.

We understand that writing a resignation letter can be a daunting task, especially if you have never done it before. That’s why we have compiled a list of templates and examples to make it easier for you to write your own letter.

Whether you are resigning due to personal reasons, a better job opportunity, or any other reason, we have got you covered. So, let’s get started!

I am writing this letter to officially announce my resignation from my position at [Your Company Name]. It is with a mix of gratitude and sadness that I bid farewell to a company that has been an integral part of my professional journey.

After much consideration, I have made the difficult decision to move on to new opportunities. My last working day at [Your Company Name] will be [Last Working Day]. I am committed to completing any pending tasks and ensuring a smooth transition during this period.

I want to express my sincere appreciation for the support and opportunities provided by [Your Company Name]. I have enjoyed working with a team of dedicated professionals and have learned valuable skills that will undoubtedly contribute to my future endeavors.

While I look forward to the next chapter in my career, I will always cherish the experiences and memories gained during my time at [Your Company Name]. I wish the company continued success and growth in the future.

Thank you for the opportunities and support throughout my tenure.

[Your Full Name]

Two Weeks Notice Letter To Whom It May Concern

I am writing this letter to formally submit my two weeks’ notice of resignation from my position at [Your Company Name]. This decision has not been made lightly, and I want to ensure a smooth transition during this period.

My last working day at [Your Company Name] will be [Last Working Day], providing ample time to wrap up any ongoing projects and assist in the transition process. I am committed to ensuring that all my responsibilities are transitioned smoothly to the team.

I have sincerely enjoyed my time at [Your Company Name] and appreciate the opportunities for professional and personal growth. I am grateful for the support and collaboration from my colleagues and the guidance provided by the management team.

Thank you for the experiences and knowledge gained during my tenure. I look forward to maintaining a positive relationship in the future. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information] for any necessary discussions during this transition period.

Resignation Letter Due To Lack Of Training

Dear [Recipient’s Full Name],

I am writing to officially submit my resignation from my position at [Company Name] due to the ongoing issue of insufficient training. After careful consideration and attempts to address this concern, I find it in the best interest of my professional development to step down from my role.

While I have enjoyed working with the team and contributing to the company’s goals, the lack of adequate training has hindered my ability to perform at my full potential. I believe that continuous learning and development are crucial for both personal and organizational success.

During my time at [Company Name], I have appreciated the opportunities and experiences. I value the relationships formed and the knowledge gained from my colleagues. I hope that the company can use this feedback to improve its training processes for the benefit of future employees.

My last working day will be [Last Working Day], providing ample time for the necessary handover and transition. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transfer of my responsibilities and would be happy to assist in training a replacement if the circumstances permit.

Thank you for the opportunities and experiences at [Company Name]. I wish the company continued success in the future.

Resignation Letter Envelope To Whom It May Concern

I am writing to formally submit my resignation from my position at [Company Name]. After careful consideration, I believe this decision is in the best interest of my personal and professional growth.

My last working day will be [Last Working Day], providing sufficient time for a smooth transition. I am committed to completing any pending tasks and facilitating the handover process to ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities.

During my time at [Company Name], I have valued the experiences and opportunities for growth. I appreciate the support and camaraderie of my colleagues, and I am grateful for the knowledge gained.

I wish [Company Name] continued success, and I hope our paths cross again in the future. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number] if there are any further details required during this transition.

Resignation Letter With To Whom It May Concern

Dear Sir/Madam,

How to Write a Resignation Letter to Whom It May Concern

Writing a resignation letter can be a daunting task, especially when you are unsure of how to address it. If you are resigning from your job and need to write a letter to whom it may concern, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing a resignation letter to whom it may concern.

1. Start with a Professional Salutation

When writing a resignation letter to whom it may concern, it is important to start with a professional salutation. Begin your letter with “”Dear Sir/Madam”” or “”To Whom It May Concern.”” This will ensure that your letter is addressed to the appropriate person.

2. State Your Intention Clearly

In the first paragraph of your resignation letter, state your intention clearly. Let the recipient know that you are resigning from your position and the date on which your resignation will be effective. This will help the recipient to understand the purpose of your letter.

3. Provide a Reason for Your Resignation

In the second paragraph of your resignation letter, provide a reason for your resignation. This is not mandatory, but it can help to provide closure and clarity to your employer. Be honest and professional in your explanation.

4. Express Gratitude

In the third paragraph of your resignation letter, express gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you have had while working for the company. This will help to maintain a positive relationship with your employer and colleagues.

5. Offer Assistance

In the fourth paragraph of your resignation letter, offer assistance in the transition process. Let your employer know that you are willing to help in any way possible to ensure a smooth transition for your replacement.

6. Provide Contact Information

In the fifth paragraph of your resignation letter, provide your contact information. This includes your phone number and email address. This will allow your employer to contact you if they have any questions or concerns.

7. End with a Professional Closing

In the final paragraph of your resignation letter, end with a professional closing. Use phrases such as “”Sincerely”” or “”Best regards”” followed by your name. This will provide a formal and respectful ending to your letter.

1. What is a resignation letter to whom it may concern?

A resignation letter to whom it may concern is a formal letter that an employee writes to inform their employer that they are resigning from their position. The letter is addressed to “”whom it may concern”” because the employee may not know who will be reading the letter.

2. When should I write a resignation letter to whom it may concern?

You should write a resignation letter to whom it may concern when you are resigning from your job, and you are not sure who will be reading the letter. This may be the case if you work for a large organization, and you are not sure who your immediate supervisor or HR representative is.

FAQs About Resignation Letter to Whom It May Concern

1. how do i address a resignation letter to whom it may concern.

When addressing a resignation letter to whom it may concern, you should start with a formal salutation such as “”Dear Sir/Madam”” or “”To Whom It May Concern.”” You should then proceed to write the body of the letter, which should include your reason for resigning, your last day of work, and any other relevant information.

2. What should I include in a resignation letter to whom it may concern?

In a resignation letter to whom it may concern, you should include your reason for resigning, your last day of work, and any other relevant information such as your contact information and your willingness to help with the transition.

3. Do I need to give a reason for resigning in a resignation letter to whom it may concern?

While it is not necessary to give a reason for resigning in a resignation letter to whom it may concern, it is generally considered good practice to do so. This can help to provide closure and clarity for both you and your employer.

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A mother’s day letter … through the years.

To Whom it May Concern,

I’m not really sure what is going on. I have no idea how I got here or why. All I do know is that every day I am getting a little bigger. Each moment, I am getting a little stronger.

And that is because of you.

You see, everything I am is because of you and the choices you make.

When you eat, I eat. When you sleep, I am busy growing. Funny how that works.

My life is dependent on you. And the sad part is I don’t even know your name.

I have never even seen your face. But from time to time, I will hear your voice. It sings “Take it or Leave It,” by the Rolling Stones. And I can tell you are singing to me.

Although you haven’t seen me yet, I can tell that you love me. It’s a wonderful feeling. I sure hope there is more of that out there where you are. And if all goes well, I will be seeing you soon.

Today I finally got the chance to see your face. Not very clearly — because I don’t see too well just yet.

But I was able to feel your touch. And your what your kisses are like upon my forehead.

I must admit, I kind of like it here in your arms. I’ve had time to think these last three-quarters of the year. I do think, you know? I am a person after all. You just couldn’t see me yet.

I now understand the “why.” Why I am here. I was sent because you needed someone to love. And I will do my best to be that person. You seem so happy to have me. I hope I won’t disappoint you.

I appreciate how you are taking care of me. Now that I can see your face more clearly, I really like your smile. It seems like you don’t smile very much except for when you look at me. So I can tell that I am making you happy. I hope I can continue to do that for you. And I honestly can tell when you aren’t very happy with me. Like the times when I cry. I am sorry about that. But I can’t convey to you any other way when I am hungry or when I need some dry clothes or when I hurt. I cannot tell you when I’m tired and just want to go to sleep. Please don’t get mad when I cry. I promise I would talk if I could.

But I do like rocking in this chair. And I love the formula you spend hours preparing on the stove. I am not really sure just who you are yet. But I can tell that you love me.

Every day I am growing more and more. Again, that is because of you. You have turned your entire life upside down just for me.

We sing. We sway. We rock in our chair. We eat. We play peek-a-boo. I am even starting to become more independent. Learning to walk, trying to feed myself.

You keep telling me to call you “mama.” But I am unable to find my voice just yet. But that must be what your name is. So, I will practice. Given all that you do for me every single day and throughout the entire night when I can’t sleep, it should be the very first word I say.

I finally learned how to say it. You are so proud of me. I will have to start learning more words so I can tell you what I want and what I need so you can stop guessing. But until I do, you are still right there. Trying your best to always decipher what I am struggling with.

Dear Mommy,

I can’t believe you are doing this all by yourself. Taking care of me and my brother. It must be hard having to work 12 hours every day, then coming home to cook dinner for us. You still make sure we have clean clothes and a kept house. You still come to our school programs and make sure we have everything we need while you go without. Thank you for being so good to us.

I know sometimes I talk back to you. Disregard anything you have to say. I’m a teenager who thinks they’re right all the time. I believe you know absolutely nothing because you are just “old.” And that I am wise beyond my years.

Yet, my choices often fail me. My decisions bring only misery. But still, you are there. Loving me even when you are angry. I remember there was a time when I said I hope to never disappoint you. But I do. I can see it on your face. That face I longed to see the entire time you carried me. I know you only want to spend time with me. Teach me things like how to cook. But I don’t want bothered with trivial stuff like that. I’m content being locked in my bedroom.

Dear Mother,

I am grateful for the way you are with my children. I can see the love you have for them — going out of your way to please them. Dropping everything in a heartbeat if I need help. Even giving me the last two dollars to your name. I cannot think of a time when I needed you and you weren’t there. Ever. I will try to do the same for my boys. I had a pretty good role model.

I can see how you much you love your great-grandson. The hours you spend cooking a meal that will be over with in 10 minutes. But you need those 10 minutes. Because they are the moments you get to see him. And still, you are there for me — no matter the reason. Still giving me those two dollars — even when you don’t have it to give. Still coming over when I need you. Still trying to make everything all right. You have never asked for anything in return. Ever. You were just being a mother. And that’s what mothers do. At least they should. I’m not really sure how I got here. Here, as in having you as the mother God chose for me. But I do know why I am here. And it isn’t so you can have someone to love.

It is so I could.

Thank you for giving your life to me and for loving me continuously. Remember when I said I hoped there would be more of that kind of love out here where you are like how you loved me before I was even born? In the 52 years I have been here … there isn’t.

There is nothing more beautiful than a mother’s love. Happy Mother’s Day.

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Working to help others

The Ohio Valley Health Center represents a perfect example of how most people think nonprofit agencies should work. ...

Guest column/Assessing mental health resources in rural Ohio

At U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, we are committed to ensuring people, no matter where they ...

Special election nears

There’s a special election coming up in about a month. And, if you live in our part of Ohio, the hope is you ...

To Whom it May Concern, I’m not really sure what is going on. I have no idea how I got here or why. All I do ...

Guest column/Don’t let Congress widen the digital divide

Nearly a third of Americans who don’t have broadband say the reason is because it costs too much — and ...

History in the Hills: Remembering low water

A few weeks ago, the Ohio River flooded. In the first few days of April the creeks, springs and waterways in our ...

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