[[Job title]] decision: a note from [[your name]]

Hi {{first_name}},

Thank you for interviewing for the [[job title]] position. [[Referring employee name]] spoke highly of you, and I can see why. Your experience with [[specific area]] came through clearly in the conversation.

We've decided to go with another candidate whose background was a closer fit for [[specific requirement]]. I wanted to let you know directly before you heard through other channels.

I'd welcome the chance to stay connected. If a role closer to your strengths opens up, I'll reach out.

[[Your name]], [[your role]]

Hi {{first_name}},

We've completed our review for the [[job title]] position and won't be moving forward with your application at this stage. That said, your experience in [[specific area]] is the kind of background we look for, and I'd encourage you to apply again as new roles open.

We post openings at [[careers page URL]]. We'd like to see your name come through again.

[[Your name]], [[your role]]

Hi {{first_name}},

I wanted to reach out personally to let you know we've decided to move forward with another candidate for the [[job title]] role. This was a close decision, and your [[specific contribution: presentation, technical assessment, case study]] in the final round stood out.

We went with a candidate whose background was a closer match to [[specific requirement or area, e.g., "the infrastructure scaling experience the role requires"]]. That's not a reflection of the quality of your work in this process.

I'd genuinely welcome the chance to reconnect if a similar role opens up. I'll keep your details on file and reach out directly if something comes up.

[[Your name]], [[your role]]