To think it is impossible these days to start and end a job application?

[ButtonMoony]

Without getting it wrong?

I need to apply for a job. Its a generic advert. Its a massive company. I have no idea who will read the CV and cover letter.

20 years ago I would have put "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To whom it may concern"

Now I feel both are antiquated and likely to be seen as incorrect?

How the hell do you start and then sign off a letter these days without offending someone?

Yo?
Hey?
Just launch straight in with no greeting?

What are the dos and don'ts please dear mumsnet?

Everywhere I have applied for has an application form and doesn’t want a cv.

I'd love to know what makes Cory a 'careers expert' especially as most actual careers experts wouldn't use that title.....speaking as an actual, qualified careers adviser.

Obviously a name is best and that Dan usually be found in the recruitment pack but if you can't find that out then Dear hiring manager or Dear Sir/Madame is fine.

*that can

Nothing wrong with Dear Madam or Sir, nothing wrong with to whom it may concern. Realistically, in most cases, this won't be the section your application succeeds or fails on so spend more time on the other bits

To whom it may concern removes any stress you might have about pronouns. Then sign off with yours faithfully.

Grammatically correct and won't offend.

forgot to add - the only time I object to dear sir/madam is when the ad very definitively states "applications to everydayisaduvetday"
& in RL, that's a v female name, so even more if just "dear Sir"

As someone involved in recruiting 'dear sir or madam' or 'to whom it may concern' is fine on a cover letter. Obviously if you know who the hiring manager is then use their name. I think the sites you are looking at might be American.