Conducting interviews and saying "no" to applicants doesn't always have to be stressful. You can almost always find something good to say (or at least something neutral) about a candidate - even when you're not offering them that coveted position.

Use formal letterhead when typing your letter. Do not handwrite a rejection letter.

Address your candidate by name.

Thank the candidate for the time, effort and interest in the firm.

Write a supportive sentence about the candidate's qualifications, experience or, at very least, enthusiasm or motivation.

Make it clear that the reason you didn't hire the candidate was because you found someone else with better qualifications and experience.

Describe your company's procedures. For example, the company keeps resumes on file and notifies potential candidates about job openings. Alternatively, you can make no mention of this whatsoever.

Wish the candidate good luck in his or her career development.

Close the letter formally with "sincerely" or "best wishes."

Sign your name, including your title.