how to start a letter

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how to start a letter

# How to Start a Letter: A Comprehensive Guide to Perfect Openings

Introduction

Greetings, dear readers! Are you struggling with the daunting task of crafting an impeccable letter that captivates your recipient from the very first line? You’re in the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricate art of starting a letter, providing you with all the tools and techniques you need to make an unforgettable first impression.

Section 1: Personalizing Your Opening

Greeting the Recipient

  • Begin with a warm salutation that addresses the recipient directly. If you have a close relationship, use their first name. Otherwise, opt for a more formal "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]."
  • Personalize the salutation by incorporating their title or a shared reference. For example, "Dear Professor Jones" or "Dear Valued Customer, Emily."

Establishing a Connection

  • Contrary to popular belief, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip the traditional "Dear [Recipient]". Instead, start with a sentence that establishes a connection with the recipient.
  • Refer to a previous conversation, a shared experience, or a reason why you’re writing. This creates a sense of familiarity and draws the recipient into the letter.

Section 2: Formal and Business Openings

Traditional Opening

  • For formal letters, adhere to the time-honored format of "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]," followed by a comma.
  • Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout the letter.
  • Consider using the recipient’s full name, especially if you’re addressing a high-ranking official or someone you don’t know well.

Modern Business Opening

  • While tradition plays a role in business letters, there’s room for a more modern approach.
  • Start with "Dear [First Name]" for a friendly yet professional tone.
  • If you’re addressing a group or department, use "Dear Hiring Team" or "Dear Customer Service Department."

Section 3: Creative and Unconventional Openings

Attention-Grabbing Hooks

  • Start with a surprising or intriguing statement that immediately captures the reader’s attention.
  • For example, "Imagine a world without the written word" or "You’ve just inherited a million dollars. Now what?"

Humorous Openings

  • If appropriate, use humor to break the ice and lighten the mood.
  • Keep it tasteful and avoid anything potentially offensive.
  • A humorous opening is a great way to establish a friendly rapport with the recipient.

Section 4: Table Breakdown of Letter Openings

Type of Letter Opening Example
Formal Letter Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name], Dear Professor Jones,
Business Letter Dear [First Name] Dear Emily,
Modern Business Letter Dear Hiring Team Dear Customer Service Department,
Creative Letter Imagine a world without the written word You’ve just inherited a million dollars. Now what?
Humorous Letter I’m writing to you from the bottom of my laundry basket My cat has taken over my keyboard and is composing this letter on my behalf

Conclusion

Now that you have this arsenal of letter-starting techniques at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to compose compelling openings that will leave an unforgettable mark. Remember, the first few words of your letter set the tone for the entire message. By following these guidelines and unleashing your creativity, you can captivate your readers and craft letters that truly shine.

Be sure to check out our other comprehensive guides on writing effective emails, creating engaging social media posts, and perfecting your resume for specific industries.

FAQ about Starting a Letter

How do I start a formal letter?

  • Use "Dear [Recipient’s Title] [Recipient’s Name]" followed by a colon.

How do I start an informal letter?

  • Use "Dear [Recipient’s Nickname]" or "Hi [Recipient’s First Name]" followed by a comma.

What should I write in the salutation if I don’t know the recipient’s name?

  • Use "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To whom it may concern."

How do I use a colon or comma after the salutation?

  • Use a colon (:) after the salutation in formal letters.
  • Use a comma (,) after the salutation in informal letters.

What should I write in the first paragraph?

  • Introduce yourself and/or state the purpose of your letter.

How do I start a letter to a friend?

  • Use a casual greeting, such as "Hi [Friend’s Name]" or "Dear [Friend’s Nickname]."

How do I start a letter to a business?

  • Use a formal salutation, such as "Dear [Company Name]" or "Dear [Contact Person’s Name]."

What should I avoid when starting a letter?

  • Don’t use slang or informal language in formal letters.
  • Don’t start with a question unless it’s a rhetorical question.
  • Don’t start with an apology.