I'd like to know whether it is okay to start a letter like this:
Dear Bob,
Hi, Bob…
I've been doing this but not sure it is totally acceptable. Isn't "Hi, Bob" somewhat redundant as there is already "Dear Bob"? Sure, there are many ways to start a letter but what I'd like to know is if it is appropriate.
Best Answer
I agree with you: "Dear Bob" followed by "Hi, Bob" is redundant. Avoid that as best you can. The best way to start a letter or email really depends on how close you are to the recipient. For instance, if I worked at Microsoft and was emailing the CEO of Apple, I would begin with "Dear Mr. Cook" or simply "Mr. Cook". If I was emailing my own boss, I might start it with "Hi, Mrs. Mallard" or something else similarly colloquial.
Long story short, do one or the other, but not both at the same time. Hope this helps!