How do I gracefully tell him no?

Dear Ron,

How does a woman go about gracefully telling someone that she is not interested when they email her? I really don't want to ignore them because they took the time to write, and I also think there must be a non-hurtful way to let them know you wish them luck but you are not interested. How do I do it, Ron?

Becky

Dear Becky,

Thoughtful women like you make the world a better place. Honestly, like any near-perfect man, I've been turned down more than once. And I always remember the ones who were classy enough to shoot me down with empathetic sensitivity. I say empathetic because those jewels of women aren't wondering how bad you must feel; they know how bad it feels because they've experienced it themselves. Right, Becky?

The nicest thanks-but-get-lost I ever received went like this, and I suggest you copy it: "Thanks so much for responding to my profile, and for your kind compliments, NAME. Your profile is great, too. But, unfortunately, I don't think we're a match. I wish you the best of luck in finding someone." You're being kind, but firm. Note: Expect many guys to send you a follow-up, "Wow, that was the NICEST blow-off I ever got… now I really know you'll like me because…"

At that point, silence is polite.

Match.com

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