A salutation is a version of a person's name used as a formal introduction at the beginning of a communication.

The default format for a salutation is 'Dear' + prefix + surname. An example is ‘Dear Mr. Doe.’ This may be altered based on need or circumstance. A suggested approach when addressing a specific person that is inclusive of gender identities is 'Dear' + first name, common name or initials + surname.

A person might prefer to be addressed informally by their first name or common name. The default format may not apply in addressing a person with an existing title or position. For example, it would be uncommon for someone to use the salutation ' Dear His Worship Mayor John Doe', but rather ‘Dear Mayor John Doe.’

If a proper salutation cannot be set due to an unknown prefix, such as a gender-neutral name or non-binary identity without a known available alternative, the default salutation is 'Friend.’