Just in case! ........

I don't think Dear Sir or Madam is too formal if you can't find out the name of the person[though as Grannyactivist says it's a good idea and shows you have done your homework.] An 'on spec' letter shouldn't contain bullshit though so don't go overboard, a modest but confident attitude would be looked on more favourably, outlining your abilities.If all else fails end it with 'please, please, I'm on my knees and begging you!!!!' Joke. Just like your love and kisses was also a joke.

grannyactivist very good advice, I thank you (and your son!)

When my son wrote 'on spec' he made sure he found out the name of the person his letter should be addressed to and then he showed them that he'd 'done his homework' about the company. Instead of talking about what he was looking for he angled his pitch to ensure that he met the criteria he supposed the company was looking for: e.g.
There are a number of things about * as a company which have particular appeal to me: the values that * espouse are also ones that I aspire to and as an owner-managed business I believe that * will offer me a career pathway that will focus on the provision of exemplary service to clients (as evidenced by your Quality Survey) and therefore the company will want to invest in me as a person in order that I will be trained to the highest possible standard; thereby meeting the needs of the firm’s clients and also fulfilling my ambition to develop my career in a company which is committed to continuous improvement. For my part I will bring enthusiasm, a commitment to excellence and a determination to represent the firm to the best of my ability at all times.
Hoping you'll get the job on Friday and won't need this advice.

I would employ you if it was me. Especially with the "love and kisses"

(wish I bloody could!

You could just start with 'hello'.

Dear Sir, stroke Madam, is a little suggestive formal I think.

I fear it won't be long before all business letters begin with, Hi Guys

I received a business e-mail yesterday which began quite formally with Dear Mrs....... and then went on to tell me the reason for the communication was to give me a heads up! They obviously assumed I would know what they were talking about.

I think that tailoring the greetings to the individual firms would proably be a Good Thing - keep on going phoenix

Ana, It is a bit tough, isn't it? "Hi" is definitely out, as you say the Sir/Madam bit is a bit too formal. "To whom it may concern!" is also far too starchy!

I think that other phrases such as "Oy, you" or "Yo Bro" might not be appropriate. I did sort of "toy" with "Hey Dude" but felt in the end it was sadly not suitable.

I don't know - it's just that it might not be morning by the time they read it! Dear Sir or Madam does sound rather too formal, I admit. Any ideas, anyone?

Oh, go on, go on, go on! (Mrs Doyle moment!) hugs and kisses are a good thing !!!

Ana what could I put instead of "Good morning" ? I suppose it would have to be "Dear Sir or Madam" ????

Reading that , I would hire you right now !

However, and there always is one of those floating about , I would NOT add hugs and kisses .

And me, phoenix!

Not sure about the 'Good morning', though, but that might just be me...

I thought that was the best bit!

Would leave out love and kisses!