Final answer:
In business letter salutations, always use a colon after the greeting, and address the recipient by their formal title. Semicolons are not used in salutations, but rather within the letter to connect related independent clauses. The closing should include a comma followed by your signature.
Step-by-step explanation:
When crafting a business letter, it's crucial to adhere to certain conventions to maintain a professional tone. The salutation of your letter is particularly important. You should address the recipient by their formal title such as 'Dr.' if they hold a PhD. After the salutation, such as 'Dear Dr. Doe,' a colon should follow. This is the standard format whether it's a formal business letter or a more casual business communication. Remember, the use of a colon indicates the start of the letter and sets the tone for the contents to follow.
In contrast, semicolons are not typically used in business letter salutations, but rather to connect independent clauses within the body of the letter. This can be useful when the second clause complements or expands upon the first, adding emphasis to the point being made. The closing of the letter should end with a comma, following a polite sign-off such as 'Sincerely' for formal letters, or perhaps 'Thank you' for less formal correspondences.
Business letters serve a variety of purposes, such as contacting companies, politicians, or inquiring about job openings. The language used should be clear, concise, and respectful, ensuring that your message is effectively communicated.