To Whom It May Concern Comma: A Guide To Proper Usage In 2023
When it comes to writing formal letters, emails, or even job applications, one punctuation mark that often causes confusion is the "to whom it may concern comma." Some people tend to omit it, while others use it excessively. In this article, we'll clarify what the "to whom it may concern comma" is, when to use it, and when to avoid it.
What is the "to whom it may concern comma"?
The "to whom it may concern comma" is a comma used after the greeting of a formal letter or email when the recipient's name is not known. The comma is placed after the phrase "to whom it may concern" to separate it from the body of the letter or email.
For example:
Dear Sir/Madam,
To whom it may concern,
Dear Hiring Manager,
Notice that in the second example, a comma separates the greeting from the rest of the letter. This is what we call the "to whom it may concern comma."
When should you use the "to whom it may concern comma"?
The "to whom it may concern comma" is appropriate when you are writing a formal letter or email, and you don't know the name of the recipient. This is often the case when you are writing to a department or organization, and you don't have a specific contact person.
For example, if you are writing a letter to inquire about a job opening, and you don't know who the hiring manager is, you can use the "to whom it may concern comma" in your greeting.
When should you avoid the "to whom it may concern comma"?
While the "to whom it may concern comma" is appropriate in formal letters or emails, it should be avoided in other forms of communication, such as cover letters, resumes, or personal emails. In these cases, it is better to address the recipient by their name.
Using the recipient's name shows that you have done some research and that you are genuinely interested in communicating with them. It also makes your message more personal and engaging.
Alternatives to the "to whom it may concern comma"
If you don't know the recipient's name, and you don't want to use the "to whom it may concern comma," there are other ways to address them. Some alternatives include:
- Dear Sir/Madam
- Dear Hiring Manager
- Dear Admissions Officer
- Dear Customer Service Representative
Using one of these alternatives can make your letter or email sound more natural and less formal. It also shows that you have put some thought into your greeting.
Examples of correct usage
Here are some examples of correct usage of the "to whom it may concern comma" in formal letters or emails:
Example 1:
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to inquire about the job opening in your company. To whom it may concern, I am a recent graduate with a degree in marketing, and I believe that my skills and experience make me a good fit for the position.
Example 2:
Dear Admissions Officer,
I am writing to express my interest in the Bachelor of Science program in Computer Science. To whom it may concern, I have always been fascinated by technology and programming, and I believe that your program can help me achieve my career goals.
Conclusion
The "to whom it may concern comma" is a useful punctuation mark when used correctly in formal letters or emails. It shows that you are aware of the formalities of business communication and that you have put some thought into your greeting. However, it should be avoided in other forms of communication, such as cover letters, resumes, or personal emails, where addressing the recipient by their name is more appropriate.
Remember, the "to whom it may concern comma" is just one aspect of effective communication. To make your message stand out, you need to use a clear and concise language, provide relevant information, and show a genuine interest in the recipient's needs and concerns. With these tips in mind, you can write more effective letters and emails that get you the results you want.
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