Simplified Letter Format

Some professionals believe that neither the salutation nor the complimentary close are read, and therefore neither should be included. This has produced the "simplified letter style." A very good use of the simplified letter style is when you cannot identify the name or gender of the person to whom you are writing. Instead of using a generic "Dear Sir or Madam" salutation, skip the salutation entirely and just identify the subject.

Letterhead

January 11, 20XX [current date]

[one or more blank lines after date]

Marketing Director Intellicom Corporation [inside address] 2589 E. Broadview Mason City, IA 70301

[two blank lines before and after subject]

SUBJECT: TARGETING BABY BOOMERS

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[one blank line between paragraphs]

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[three blank lines for signature]

Sam Darrel [typed signature and title] Promotions Editor and Title