Salutation

Definition

A salutation is a greeting used at the beginning of a written communication, such as a letter or email. In the context of query letters and submission packages, it sets the tone for the interaction between the writer and the recipient, often establishing a level of professionalism and respect. Properly addressing the recipient in a salutation can also demonstrate that the writer has done their research and understands the conventions of professional correspondence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A salutation in a query letter is usually followed by the recipient's name and title, such as 'Dear Mr. Smith' or 'Dear Ms. Johnson'.
2. Using the correct salutation can make a positive first impression, while an incorrect or generic salutation can signal carelessness.
3. It's important to personalize the salutation whenever possible, as this shows respect for the recipient's position and individual identity.
4. Salutations are generally followed by a comma in American English and may be followed by a colon in formal contexts.
5. Common practice dictates using 'Dear' as a standard opener; however, more casual alternatives can be used depending on the context and relationship with the recipient.

Review Questions

• How does choosing an appropriate salutation impact the effectiveness of a query letter?
  • Choosing an appropriate salutation is crucial for setting a respectful and professional tone in a query letter. A well-researched salutation that addresses the recipient by name shows attention to detail and enhances credibility. In contrast, using a generic greeting may convey disinterest or lack of effort, potentially undermining the overall impact of the letter.
• Discuss how different types of salutations can influence the perceived tone of submission packages.
  • Different types of salutations can significantly influence how submission packages are received. Formal salutations like 'Dear' followed by titles convey professionalism and respect, essential in a competitive environment. On the other hand, more casual greetings might suggest familiarity but can also be seen as unprofessional if not appropriate for the recipient's status. Thus, matching the salutation to the context and audience is key to establishing an effective tone.
• Evaluate the role of salutations in establishing rapport with potential literary agents or publishers in query letters.
  • Salutations play an essential role in establishing rapport with potential literary agents or publishers by creating an initial connection. A personalized salutation that reflects knowledge about the recipient demonstrates genuine interest and effort, fostering a sense of respect and engagement. This initial connection can be pivotal in encouraging agents or publishers to read further into the query letter, potentially influencing their decision-making process regarding representation or publication.

Related terms

Query Letter: A brief letter sent to literary agents or publishers to propose a manuscript, often including a summary of the work and author credentials.

Submission Package: A collection of materials sent to agents or publishers that typically includes a query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters of a manuscript.

Closing: The part of a letter that comes before the signature, often including phrases like 'Sincerely' or 'Best regards' which help to conclude the correspondence.