A Person’s Name Is Dear to Them
You have many options in salutations, from using someone’s name to
employing the generic “To Whom It May Concern.” When you start a letter
or other communication with someone’s name, you signal to that person
that you know who he or she is. That connection encourages the
person to read on.
In certain circumstances, you should adhere to formal protocol. Specifically,
when writing letters to any member of the diplomatic corps, the
military, or elected officials, it’s usually best to adhere strictly to the standards
of protocol. (Consult the “Forms of Address” section in many standard
dictionaries and business etiquette books.)
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