i have a couple questions for the more savvy obnish about cover letter etiquette.

1) how do i handle a title if the person who does the hiring has a unisex name? i certainly don't want to refer to them as a mister when they're a lady, but i have no idea. there's also no number listed for me to call and hang up quickly after i hear their voice. and i've always thought it not best to refer to people by their first name in an initial letter.

2) for this one prospect, i have a friend who'd be a close colleague if i were to get the job. is this relevant and, if so, where is a good opportunity to bring this up?

thanks... i'm going mental trying to crank these out.

dear pat unisex:

Can you find no # for the company or whatever? If you get a receptionist and explain your problem I'm sure they would be happy to tell you the sex of the person you're sending the letter to.

First try and make sure your friend is well regarded in the company. If that's the case, you can in your letter explain that the reason you are so familar with the company, heard such good things about the company...etc, bullshit, etc... is because you have a friend who is employed there.

Steve

Use their whole name:
"Dear Pat Rilley,"

THEY know that their name is unisex and should not be offended if addressed as such.

Or, you could use last name and title:
"Dear Hiring Manager Rilley,"

But that is a little awkward.

1.) what about going with the "/" as in dear mr./ms. ....

2.) I would have your friend maybe drop your name to HR and then bring up his name in the interview you are sure to score after your nice cover letter

Can't you ask your friend to find out for you?

Dear King of the Awesome,

wait, crap that is male.

uh

Dear Royal Majesty of all that Rules