Hi [First Name],

This is one of the harder emails I send — we've decided not to move forward with an offer for the [Role] position.

It was an incredibly close decision. The team genuinely appreciated [specific strength], and you came across as someone we'd want to work with. Ultimately, we went with a candidate who had more direct experience in [specific area].

If you're open, I'd love to stay connected and consider you for future roles. Wishing you the best.

Best,
[Your Name]