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How to End a Letter (With Closing Examples)

The Best Options to End a Letter

Letter closing examples, more letter closing examples, letter closings to avoid, how to capitalize a closing, how to format a letter ending, what to include in your signature, signature examples, frequently asked questions (faqs).

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How you end a letter is important. It’s your last chance to make a good first impression on your reader. Choose the wrong closing, and you might damage the goodwill you built up in the rest of your communication.

What’s the best way to end a letter or email message? Your closing needs to leave the reader with positive feelings about you and the letter you have written.

In closing your letter, it is important to use an appropriately respectful and professional word or phrase.

Most formal letter closing options are fairly standard, but there are degrees of warmth and familiarity if you're using a less formal closing. Your relationship with the person to whom you're writing will shape which closing you choose:

• If you don’t know the individual to whom you’re writing, stick with a professional formal closing.
• If you’re writing to a colleague, business connection, or someone else you know well, it’s fine to close your letter less formally.

Above all, your closing should be appropriate. Choose the right letter closing, and your reader likely won’t remember how you ended your letter. Ideally, your message will resonate instead of your word choice.

Key Takeaways

• When you don’t know the individual to whom you’re writing, use a professional formal closing.
• If you're writing to someone you know well, it’s fine to close your letter less formally.
• Some closings are not appropriate for business correspondence, so avoid being too informal.

Review the best way to end a letter with formal, business, or personal letter closings, sample signatures, letter examples, and writing tips.

The Balance

The following are letter closings that are appropriate for business and employment-related letters.

Sincerely, Sincerely Yours, Regards, Yours Truly, and Yours Sincerely 

These are the simplest and most useful letter closings to use in a formal business setting. These are appropriate in almost all instances and are excellent ways to close a cover letter or a job inquiry . “Sincerely” is a classic way to end a letter or email. If you're not sure about options, it's a good one to choose.

Best Regards, Cordially, and Yours Respectfully

These letter closings fill the need for something slightly more personal. They are appropriate once you have some knowledge of the person to whom you are writing. You may have corresponded via email a few times, had a face-to-face or phone interview, or met at a networking event.

Warm Regards, Best Wishes, and With Appreciation

These letter closings are also appropriate once you have some connection to the person to whom you are writing. They can effectively tie back to the content of your message, providing a fitting conclusion. For example, if you are sending a thank-you note, it may be appropriate to use "With Appreciation." Only use these if they make sense with the content of your letter.

When you’re ending your letter, be sure to choose a letter closing that is appropriate to the topic of your letter and your relationship with the person to whom you are writing. Here are more examples to choose from:

• All the best,
• Best of luck,
• Best wishes,
• Cordially yours,
• Fond regards,
• In appreciation,
• In sympathy,
• Kind regards,
• Kind thanks,
• Kind wishes,
• Many thanks,
• Respectfully,
• Respectfully yours,
• Sincerely yours,
• Stay safe and well,
• Thanks again,
• Thank you for your assistance in this matter,
• Thank you for your consideration,
• Thank you for your recommendation,
• Thank you for your time,
• Warm regards,
• Warm wishes,
• With appreciation,
• With deepest sympathy,
• With gratitude,
• With sincere thanks,
• With sympathy,
• Your help is greatly appreciated,
• Yours cordially,
• Yours faithfully, 
• Yours sincerely,
• Yours truly,

There are certain closings you should avoid in any business letter or email. Most of these are simply too informal. Casual doesn't work with professional correspondence. Some examples of closings to avoid are listed below:

Some closings (such as “Love” and “XOXO”) imply a level of closeness that is not appropriate for a business letter. Slang or acronyms aren't appropriate either.

Capitalize the first word of your closing. If your closing is more than one word, capitalize the first word and use lowercase for the other words. For example:

• Best regards,

Once you have chosen a word or phrase to use as a send-off, follow it with a comma, some space, and then include your signature.

Printed letter: If you are sending a hard-copy letter, leave four lines of space between the closing and your typed name. Use this space to sign your name in ink. 

Email message: If you’re sending an email , leave one space between the complimentary close and your typed signature. Include your contact information directly below your typed signature.

Beneath your letter closing, include your signature. If this is a physical letter, first sign your name in ink, and then list your typed signature below. If this is an email letter, simply add your typed signature below your send-off.

Make sure to include your contact information in your letter.

If this is a physical letter, your contact information will be at the top of the letter. However, if this is an email, include that information beneath your typed signature. This will allow the recipient to respond to you easily.

Hard-Copy Letter Signature

Handwritten signature (for a printed letter)

Typed signature

Email Message Signature Example

Typed Signature Email Address Phone LinkedIn URL (if you have a profile)

To set up your email signature, go to “settings” in your email account. Follow the steps to add your signature and pre-populate future messages.

How do you start a business letter?

If you are sending a hard-copy version, start your business letter with your name and address, followed by the date, and then the recipient’s name and address. Then, include a salutation and the recipient’s name, e.g., “Dear Ms. Green.”

What are the parts of a business letter?

The parts of a business letter are the sender’s address, the date, the recipient’s address, a salutation, the message body, a closing, and the sender’s signature. If you send the letter by email, you can omit the address and date sections and include your contact information in your email signature.

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How to End an Application Letter Perfectly | Closing Examples & Tips

• June 28, 2024
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Table of Contents Hide

Why you must craft a compelling conclusion in your application letter, how to end an application letter perfectly, 1. show gratitude, 2. reiterate your interest and enthusiasm, 3. summarize your main points , 4. always add a call to action, 5. be professional , 6. follow-up, main components of a good cover letter closing, must i sign a cover letter before sending it out , faqs on how to end an application letter, we also recommend.

By crafting a strong application letter conclusion, you can effectively highlight your enthusiasm, professionalism, and suitability for the position, increasing your chances of making a positive impact on the employer.

While the body of an application letter showcases one’s qualifications and experiences, it is often the closing that leaves a final impact on the reader. A well-crafted ending can not only leave a positive impression but also increase the chances of being considered for the desired role.

In this article, we will discuss various tips and examples on how to end an application letter perfectly, ensuring that you leave a lasting and professional impression on your potential employer or recruiter.

Many cover letter articles emphasize the significance of opening strong, demonstrating excitement, and highlighting abilities and experiences. However, it is equally important to sustain that enthusiasm throughout the letter, keeping the reader interested and convincing them you are the ideal candidate for the post.

Knowing how to end a cover letter with a strong conclusion guarantees that your message is compelling from beginning to end. A great finish provides you with another opportunity to pique the reader’s interest. Your entire letter has been focused on persuading the recruiting manager that you have the necessary qualifications and characteristics to succeed in the position. Your conclusion is what seals the deal and gets them enthusiastic about interviewing you.

READ ALSO: How to Write an Application Letter to a Pharmacy as a Sales Representative in Nigeria

In Nigeria, closing and following up on an application letter are critical procedures that can help you make a good impression on the company and boost your chances of being interviewed.

When you finish the letter, thank the employer for the opportunity to apply and for taking the time to read it. Make sure to include your contact information, such as phone number and email address, so that they can reach you. You can also suggest a meeting or interview and inform them of your availability.

it is important to follow up with the employer after sending your application letter. You can do this by sending an email or calling to find out where your application is in the process. This shows that you care about the job and are interested in it, and it also makes a good impression on the employer.

it is important to be polite and respectful when following up. Try not to be pushy or mean. Instead, show that you are interested in the job and ask what else the employer needs from you.

You can also use the follow-up as a chance to remind the employer of your skills and experience and why you’d be a good fit for the job.

By using these tips for closing and following up in an application letter in Nigeria, you can make a good impression on the employer and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Related Post: How to Write an Application Letter to a School as a Student

Tips On How To End An Application Letter

Writing a compelling cover letter ending is an important skill for job seekers who want to make it past the application stage. Here are several tips you should keep in mind as you craft your cover letter’s closing paragraph.

Hiring managers are busy people who may receive hundreds of applications for every job opening. This means they have a lot to read through, and they likely appreciate candidates who acknowledge this fact by showing gratitude in their cover letters.

As you search for advice about how to end a cover letter, don’t underestimate the power of thanking the hiring manager for taking the time to read it. Good cover letter templates will show you how to devote one line of the last paragraph to letting them know you see their effort and appreciate their consideration of your candidacy.

SEE ALSO: How to Write an Informal Letter in Nigeria | Format, Samples, and Tips

Hiring managers do not want to interview just any candidate. They want to focus on candidates who are visibly enthusiastic about the work. You just spent the majority of your letter convincing the recruiting manager that you are ideal for the position. Don’t let go of your enthusiasm at the end.

Instead, reaffirm your enthusiasm by explaining why you wish to join the organization. Make sure your cover letter examples highlight how you can contribute to the company’s growth and strategic goals.

If you structure your cover letter accordingly, you have most likely discussed the specifics of your experience and accomplishments in great depth. The final paragraph is an excellent spot to consolidate the material and reinforce your fit for the job.

Tell the recruiting manager why you are qualified for the role. Then, tell them that you believe your qualifications would make you an ideal candidate to assist them take things to the next level.

This ensures that your cover letter does more than simply rehash what is present on your resume. It helps you to go above and beyond by demonstrating to the hiring manager how your abilities complement each other to make you the ideal applicant.

SEE ALSO: 7 Best Websites To Hire Freelancers For Summary Writing In Africa

One important suggestion for how to end a cover letter effectively is to express your willingness to move forward in the candidate selection process. At the end of your letter, utilize an actionable remark to demonstrate to the hiring manager that you want to follow the next steps and want to be invited for an interview.

This can be as simple as telling the hiring manager you’d like to discuss more about how you can contribute to their team and encouraging them to contact you to schedule a meeting or an interview. Then, tell them how to reach you and provide your contact information for their convenience.

In ending your application letter, your language should always be cordial and convey a sense of respect for the person reading it. A well-structured cover letter and  resume examples will help you identify a professional tone for crafting your application materials.

One way to stay professional is to use the right closing lines and salutations at the end of your cover letter. Some popular phrases that fit the bill here include “Best regards,” “Sincerely,” and “Respectfully.” You can also reiterate your gratitude with a line like “Thank you for your consideration.”

You may want to check out 7 Best Websites To Hire Freelancers For Resume Writing In Africa

Although your follow-up will not appear in the cover letter, it is still a crucial element of the application process. Consider sending one if you haven’t heard back from the company within an acceptable timeframe (typically one to two weeks).

Following up on your job applications is an excellent idea since it keeps your name in front of the recruiting team and confirms your interest in and enthusiasm for the role. This also ensures that you are quickly aware of any required extra information or next steps.

Use the closing to accomplish three tasks and move the process forward.

• Sum up your strengths.  When emphasizing your professional strengths, don’t repeat phrases used in the initial part of the letter. Use fresh language to succinctly make your case in the close. (See examples below.)
• Be polite and confident.  A cover letter closing like, “I look forward to hearing from you,” won’t spur a manager to pick up the phone. Instead, you could write, “I look forward to speaking with you about how I can put my skills to work for ABC Transport.” Politely request an interview; don’t demand one or say you’ll call the office in the coming week. You want to be confident, not pushy.
• Say thanks : At the end of every cover letter, ensure you thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and choose a professional closing salutation such as, “Sincerely,” “Best regards” or “Thank you for your consideration.” Avoid overly familiar phrases like, “Yours,” “Cheers” or “Take care.”

READ ALSO: How To Write An Application Letter For a Teaching Job in Nigeria?

How to Sign Off a Cover Letter 

Signing off your cover letter is a pretty straightforward task. All you have to do is use a signature line, followed by your full name.

It’s only a couple of words at most, but your sign-off is an important part of writing a cover letter. 

You don’t want to sound too rigid and formal, but you also don’t want to come off as too relaxed and treat the hiring manager like an old friend.

Here are seven of the best sign-offs for your cover letter:

Agba Johnson

And since “sincerely” has become overused, consider these signature lines to use instead: 

• Kind regards,
• With best regards,
• Most sincerely,
• Respectfully yours,
• Best regards,
• Respectfully,
• Thank you for your consideration,

The decision whether or not to sign a cover letter is determined by the method of delivery.

Today, most cover letters are submitted online. If this is the situation for you, there is no need to include an electronic signature.

Simply include your entire name at the end of the cover letter, in the same typeface as the remainder of the letter.

If you are sending a traditional printed cover letter, provide the same information and sign underneath your name.

The best way to end an application letter is to express gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration, reiterate your interest in the position, and invite the employer to contact you for further discussion. Use a professional closing phrase such as “Yours sincerely” or “Best regards.”

Maintain a professional and courteous tone in the closing paragraph. Show enthusiasm for the position and confidence in your qualifications, but avoid sounding presumptuous or overly aggressive.

Yes, expressing gratitude is important. Thank the employer for taking the time to review your application. This shows appreciation and leaves a positive impression.

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When it comes to ending a professional letter, choosing the right closing can make all the difference in leaving a positive impression. Here, you’ll find a few examples of closing phrases to help you wrap up your correspondence with a professional touch.

Formal Letter Closing Examples

Traditional sign-offs.

When ending a professional letter, you may want to use a traditional sign-off to convey formality and respect:

• Yours sincerely
• Yours faithfully
• Yours truly
• Best regards

(Remember to choose the one that feels appropriate for the context of your letter.)

Professional Goodbyes

Sometimes, you may prefer a more modern or professional goodbye. The following examples are suitable choices for various formal situations:

• Kind regards
• Best wishes
• Warm regards
• With appreciation

These options still maintain a level of formality while offering a touch of warmth to your professional communication.

Informal Letter Closings

Friendly farewells.

In this subsection, you will find a list of friendly yet professional farewells to use when ending an informal letter. These sign-offs are suitable for colleagues or business acquaintances with whom you have a positive relationship. Feel free to use any of the following examples to suit your needs:

Casual Sign-Offs

On the other hand, if you’re writing a letter to a close coworker, friend, or someone you have a more informal relationship with, you might want to consider using a casual sign-off. Here is a list of casual sign-offs that convey a sense of familiarity and friendliness:

• All the best
• Have a great day
• Catch you later
• See you soon

Email Signature Essentials

An essential part of ending a professional letter is your email signature. A well-crafted signature serves as your virtual business card and provides the recipient with your vital contact information. Some essential elements to include in your email signature:

• Your Name : Include both your first and last name. You may opt to include your middle initial if you prefer.
• Title : State your job title or position within the company. It’s essential in case the recipient needs to identify your expertise.
• Company Name : Mention the name of the organization you represent. This creates a clear connection between you and the business.
• Phone Number : Add your work phone number to give the recipient an alternative way of contacting you.
• Email Address : Even though they received your email, including your email address makes your details easily accessible.
• Website : If applicable, include the company website or your professional portfolio.

An example of a simple yet effective email signature:

Jane Smith Sales Manager, (…) Corporation Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email:  [email protected] Website:  www.xyzcorp.com

You may also consider adding a few additional elements to make your email signature stand out:

• Social Media Links : Including professional social media profiles, such as LinkedIn or Twitter, can make it easy for the recipient to connect with you.
• Company Logo : If your organization permits, you can include a small company logo to enhance brand recognition.
• Formatting : Use consistent font styles, sizes, and color schemes to showcase a polished image.

Keep in mind that less is often more when it comes to email signatures. You want to provide valuable information without overwhelming the recipient. Make sure your signature does not exceed four to six lines, and to keep the formatting simple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• One common mistake you should avoid is using overly familiar or casual language. Though you might be tempted to use more personal closings like “Cheers” or “Yours truly,” these can come across as unprofessional. Instead, choose a proper closing from the examples provided above, such as “Sincerely” or “Kind regards.”
• Another mistake to avoid is using excessive punctuation or emojis. While these might be appropriate in informal communications with friends, they do not belong in professional letters. Stick to a simple comma or period after your closing phrase, followed by your typed or handwritten signature.
• Inaccurate or misspelled names can also be a significant source of embarrassment. Pay special attention to the spelling of the recipient’s name and their job title, as well as your own personal information. Double-check before you send out the letter to ensure there are no errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some professional sign-offs i can use to wrap up a formal letter of application.

These formal closing lines show professionalism and communicate the right level of politeness:

• With best regards,
• Thank you for your consideration,
• Looking forward to your response,

What’s a casual yet professional way to end a business letter?

A casual yet professional way to end a business letter might include:

• Best regards,
• Kind regards,

I want to finish off a personal letter in a warm way, but not with ‘Love’. Any suggestions?

If you’re trying to finish a personal letter warmly without using ‘Love,’ you can consider these alternatives:

• Warm regards,
• Best wishes,
• Yours truly,

These options add a friendly touch while avoiding an overly familiar or intimate tone.

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How to End A Cover Letter (Tips & Examples)

by Karien de Villiers

• Cover letter
• · August 28 2024
• · 5 min read

Table of contents

A good cover letter not only provides the chance to authentically communicate your enthusiasm for the role but also highlights to the recruiter or hiring manager that you invested the time and effort to understand the job before applying. This distinction is vital, as a well-written cover letter sets you apart from other candidates, even in cases where your CV perfectly aligns with your career goals.

Looking to create a professional cover letter?

What is a cover letter.

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your CV or resume when you apply for a job. Its purpose is to introduce yourself, highlight your relevant skills and experiences, and explain why you are a strong fit for the position you are applying for.

Keep reading to find the best tips for the end of a job letter.

What to include in a cover letter?

A cover letter should follow a clear structure ; this includes drawing it to a close. This article provides tips on how to close a cover letter whether you are writing a short cover letter or job-specific role. From expressing gratitude to aligning your values with the company, we guide you through elements that will make your closing remarks leave a lasting impression with an impacting closing paragraph and professional sign-off.

Unlock new job opportunities with a perfect cover letter

5 tips on how to end a cover letter uk, 1. express genuine gratitude.

Expressing gratitude in your cover letter goes beyond mere formality; it is an opportunity to sincerely acknowledge and appreciate the time and consideration the reader is investing in reviewing your application. Start by acknowledging the privilege of applying for the position and convey your thankfulness for the opportunity. For example, "Thank you for considering my application for the Marketing Manager role at Tesco."

2. Demonstrate proactiveness

Start by expressing excitement about the prospect of joining the company and emphasise your keen interest in the position. Share specific aspects of the role that excite you, such as challenges you're eager to tackle or projects you're enthusiastic about contributing to. To exhibit initiative, consider mentioning relevant achievements or skills that directly align with the job requirements. Highlight any proactive steps you've taken in your previous roles or experiences that showcase your ability to take charge and deliver results. For example, "The challenges outlined in the Software Developer role align perfectly with my passion for problem-solving."

3. Highlight your understanding of the role

When reaffirming your comprehension of the role's requirements in your cover letter, aim to provide a clear and compelling connection between your skills and experiences and the company's specific needs. Start by referencing the key requirements outlined in the job description, showcasing your understanding of what the position demands. Elaborate on how your skill set aligns seamlessly with these requirements.

Offer specific examples or achievements from your past experiences that directly relate to the competencies sought by the company. This could include relevant projects you've worked on, skills you've honed, or specific accomplishments demonstrating your ability to excel in similar task

4. Reemphasise how your values align with the company

When reinforcing your commitment to shared values in your cover letter, aim to connect your personal and professional principles and the company's core values, mission, and culture. Start by researching and understanding the company's values, mission statement, and cultural ethos. Highlight specific aspects of the company's mission or values that resonate with you on a personal and professional level. For example, "I am drawn to the company not only for its impressive track record but also for its commitment to sustainable development."

5. Maintain professionalism

When concluding your cover letter with a confident and professional tone, aim to leave a lasting impression that reinforces your suitability for the position. Emphasise your readiness to excel in the role by crafting closing remarks that exude self-assurance and competence. Summarise your key qualifications and express your confidence in your ability to meet and exceed the expectations of the position. Follow these same tips if you are also wondering how to end a letter of interest or simple cover letter.

If you opt for AI tools, keep in mind that automated or non-human-generated content is easily discernible. Therefore, if you choose this approach, we advise you to infuse your cover letter with a personal touch.

Examples of how to finish a cover letter

Take a look at the following examples that you can customise for your cover letter final paragraph:

Example 1:  

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Bol and would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your organisation's goals in more detail. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Oliver Morgan

Explore the retail cover letter for further examples.

Example 2:  

I am eager to further discuss how my background and skills make me a strong fit for the Head of Marketing position. I would appreciate the opportunity to interview with you and explore how I can contribute to the success of Tesco. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best, Lisa Pearse

Refer to the marketing cover letter example for more tips.

Example 3 : 

I look forward to the possibility of contributing to J&J Lawyers and am confident that my skills make me a strong candidate for the position. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you in more detail. Regards, John Smith

Take a look at the lawyer cover letter sample for more insights.

Example 4:  

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining NHS and contributing to its success. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with the needs of your team. Best, Charles Bunting

Read the step-by-step guide for a medical cover letter .

Example 5:  

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to ASCR Group and am confident in my ability to excel in the Construction Manager role. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my candidacy further. Kind Regards, Sally Wilson

How to sign-off a cover letter

A professional sign-off in a cover letter is crucial as it leaves a lasting impression on prospective employers. It conveys a sense of respect, courtesy, and attention to detail, reflecting positively on the candidate's professionalism.

Yours sincerely,

Best regards,

Warm regards,

Kind regards,

Yours Truly

Best Wishes

Respectfully,

Yours respectfully,.

If you're not sure how to sign-off a letter of application, you can just use 'Best regards' for a professional touch.

Key takeaways

The significance of a well-crafted cover letter sign-off cannot be overstated. It's your final chance to leave an impression on potential employers so take some time to think about how to end your letter of application. By following tips and incorporating practical examples in your closing, you elevate your application, making it memorable and distinct in a competitive job market. 

Additional tips on how not to end a cover letter:

Be vigilant about typos; thoroughly proofread your content.

Ensure you include your complete name.

Avoid crafting overly generic conclusions.

Maintain a professional tone throughout.

Strike a balance by providing sufficient information without overwhelming the reader; keep your cover letter conclusion concise and straightforward.

Next steps?

Explore our extensive selection of professional cover letter templates , paired with corresponding CV templates and examples that you can effortlessly customise. If you require assistance refining your cover letter or how to end a CV, our team is here to assist. Learn more about our CV Writing Services and how we can help you. Read the best on how to start your cover letter to make an impression from beginning to end.

What is the last thing you put on a cover letter?

The last section of a cover letter typically includes the closing remarks, your chosen sign-off (e.g., "Sincerely" or "Best Regards"), and your typed name. Below your typed name, you may include additional contact information if not provided elsewhere in the letter.

What should you always end a cover letter by?

It's advisable to always end a cover letter by expressing appreciation for the opportunity, stating your enthusiasm for the position, and leaving the door open for further discussion. A courteous and positive closing can leave a favourable impression on the employer.

How do you end a cover letter instead of sincerely?

Instead of using "Sincerely," you can consider alternative professional closings, such as "Best Regards," "Kind Regards," "Yours Truly," or "Thank You." Choose a closing that aligns with the tone of your letter and maintains a level of formality.

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The English application: Cover letter

Cover letter: final statement and ending salutation, final statement.

The last paragraph of your cover letter should mention when and how you are reachable as well as that you would welcome an invitation for a personal interview. Emphasize that you will reach out to the company yourself in the next few days to ensure that your application has arrived. Having sent the application, you now have a reason to call there. During the phone call, ask whether references and/or additional certificates are required and build an immediate personal contact, preferably with the person responsible.

Short and sweet

• When and how are you reachable?
• You are looking forward to an interview.
• You will call in the next few days to ensure that the application has reached.

Ending salutation

The ending salutation depends on whether the name of the contact person is known. ‘Sincerely’ (US) and ‘Yours sincerely’ (UK) are the most common greetings if you know the person’s name. If you do not, however, and have used the salutation, ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, then ‘Yours faithfully’ is the preferred ending salutation. Phrases like ‘With best regards’ must never be used here, as they represent a more colloquial style and are used in email.

Whether you should place a comma after the ending salutation will depend on whether you have placed a comma after the greeting.

Dear Mr. XY, ... Yours sincerely, Dear Mr XY ... Yours sincerely

After the ending salutation, about four blank lines serve as placeholders for your signature, followed by your first and last names. In contrast to the CV, British and American cover letters are both signed.

Kurz und bündig

• ‘Sincerely’ if the contact person is known
• ‘Yours faithfully’ if the contact person is unknown
• Comma after ending salutation if there is also a comma after the greeting

Sincerely or Faithfully?

If you know the name of the person you’re writing  to (‘Dear Jane…’) use sincerely . If you don’t know the name of the name of the person you’re addressing then you should use faithfully .

Emails tend me be less formal than traditional letters so you could always keep it simple and use regards/kind regards .

Yours sincerely and Yours faithfully are both traditional ways to end a letter. Letter writing over the years has been an art form and signing off has a long history with conventions attached to it. When you sign off a letter at the end, phrases such as Yours sincerely are known as valedictions . Take a look at these examples :

• Yours truly
• Kind regards
• Yours hopefully

For our American readers there is little fuss over the sincerely/faithfully question because there it is common to use sincerely and not muddle things by adding faithfully to the equation.

But for the rest of us the question arises about how to sign off a letter and make sure that we are using the correct valediction.

Here is how we do it (and how to remember which one to use: faithfully or sincerely).

Yours sincerely

This is used if you know the person’s name (perhaps the job advertisement has told you to send letters to a Mr J. Fox). You know their name so you will be addressing the letter to them and signing off Yours sincerely.

Yours faithfully

This is used where you do not know the name of the person to whom you are sending the letter. You may have seen a job advertised but you have not been given a name to address your cover letter to. You may start your letter, Dear Sir or Madam and end it with Yours Faithfully.

Sincerely or faithfully: How Do I Remember Which One To Use?

This is how I remember it: if you are writing a letter to someone and you do not know their name you are writing to them blindly and you must have blind faith that they will reply and be helpful. With this faith in mind you must use faithfully.

If you know the name of the person you are writing to then you are in a stronger position to be sincere in your letter to them: use sincerely

Sincerely or faithfully: another way to remember which one to use.

Many people remember it like this:

Never use Sir with Sincerely

So if you open with Dear Sir or Madam you will never end with sincerely; you will use faithfully.

Remember that a covering email is usually a little less formal and frequently uses less stuffy ways to sign off ; you may use lighter language to sign off such as Regards.

Perhaps you have your own ways of remembering valedictions. Leave your own ideas in the comments section.

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Cover Letter , CV , Jobsearch

3 Responses to Sincerely or Faithfully?

The usage of “sincerely” and “faithfully” as described above is nonsense. If you only know a person’s name you clearly do not know the person so “faithfully” is the only valediction that can be used. The meanings of the nouns “person” and “name” are not synonymous but in the above criteria they have been used as such.

Person : A human being regarded as an individual

Name : A word or set of words by which a person or thing is known, addressed, or referred to i.e. label

One then has to clarify what is considered to be the meaning of to know a person. As the noun “person” in this case is the object the word “know” has the following meaning:

[WITH OBJECT] Have developed a relationship with (someone) through meeting and spending time with them; be familiar or friendly with:

It would therefore seem that “faithfully” is the only valediction unless one has met the addressee! It would seem that the above guide to usage is pretty much useless. I was taught if you know the person “sincerely” and if you don’t know the person “faithfully”. KNOWING A NAME IS NOT KNOWING A PERSON! I’m not a scholar of the English language but I do understand that “person” and “name” mean different things. I would seem that English guidelines have been adulterated to allow the one size fits all American usage.

Oxford University Press does not agree that this is nonsense:

“The wording at the end of a business letter follows a standard format: If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with Yours sincerely. If your letter begins with Dear Sir or Dear Madam, it should end with Yours faithfully.”

Citation: http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/words/business-letters

Regardless of your sensible, laudable, logical, and probably better suggestion, the convention is as the Job Fox describes, namely (pun intended) “Sir doesn’t go with sincerely”.

To use faithfully where you know the name, but have otherwise no knowledge of the person, will look odd to most people and distract from the purpose of the letter.

Having said that, language changes. Maybe when you were at school, your definition was more generally accepted, but since then the custom has changed. Maybe in a couple of generations, the distinction between sincerely and faithfully will be less known and so widely disregarded that it becomes irrelevant. Maybe we’ll just put a smiley and hit send.

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