Universiteit Leiden

nl en

Writing guidelines

Currently the writing guidelines are only partly availabe in English.

Salutation

Leiden University uses a gender-neutral salutation whenever possible. For official announcements and communications, automated messages, forms and policy documents, the following applies:

  • The preference of the person being addressed is leading. If necessary, ask for someone's preference.
  • For automated communications, choose a neutral salutation.
  • Use a neutral salutation and form of address in communication with groups (Dear visitor, Dear colleagues).
  • Use neutral job titles.
  • Ask (e.g. in forms) about formal gender only when necessary.
Situation Advice

Formal and automated communication

Messages directed at groups

Gender-neutral address
Full name/initials
Title

Dear Sir,
Dear Madam,
Dear Sir or Madam,
 
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,
Dear student,
Dear colleague,
Dear participant,
Dear reader,
Dear user,
Dear candidate etc.
 

Formal communication directed at one individual

Full name/initials, or title

Dear Mr Van Leiden,
Dear Mrs Van Leiden,
Dear Ms Van Leiden,

Dear Dr Van Leiden
Dear Prof. Van Leiden
Dear Ms Van Leiden
Dear M.A. van Leiden,
Dear Marijn van Leiden,

Dear Professor Van Leiden
Dear Dr Van Leiden

Informal personal communication

Preferred name

Dear Marijn, Dear Marijn,
 
If preferred name is not known
Dear student,
Dear colleague,

See also the guide Tips for gender-inclusive communication

This website uses cookies.  More information.