Addressing Emails

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.
NEVER address a superior by his/her first name unless clearly invited to do so.

Mr./Ms. is technically correct in this case, but sometimes it is awkward because you're highlighting the fact that an academic faculty member does not hold a doctorate when it is traditionally expected that faculty have PhDs. A safer option (but not exactly correct) would be to call the person "Professor Smith," even if they are a lecturer without a professorship.
 
If it is faculty in College or University, it is Professor or Dr. unless the person doesn't hold a Doctorate then you just go by Professor.

If it is staff with no distinction, then use Dear John/Jane Doe. No one cares about Mr. Mrs. or Ms. anymore. Maybe some baby boomers might still care, but even then.. also, I've seen people get very upset and offended by being addressed as Mrs. and they were not married. Best just to avoid this one if you ask me.
 
Top