これまでの人生で、本当に数えるほどしかないが、ありがたい職位のお話をお断りしなければならない瞬間があり、しかもそれを英語のメールでお伝えしなければいけなかった。英語で丁重なお断りメッセージのサンプルとして、いくつかここに書き残しておく。
尚、いずれのメールも、先方からは暖かい＆
SAMPLE [1]:
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Dear Prof. XXX,
First thank you so much for your information on the offer of YYY position. Meanwhile, however, I already got the other offer for the AAA position, and I am now negotiating for decision on this issue. Thus, am not able to answer to other offers at this moment. Even though I am not available for the current position, I deeply appreciate your kind regard, and look forward to communicate by chance in our future researches and/or activities. Also, I wish you the best for health and success.
With kind regard,
Tomoishiro
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SAMPLE [2]:
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Dear Prof. XXX,
First I apologize for my delay in reply. Indeed, in the last few weeks, there were some issues for my future career, and I needed to work on that. Answering to your warm offering, let me inform you as follows.
(1) I had been applying to the University of AAA. Somehow my application goes to the final phase, and now I am waiting for their final decision. But there is another strong candidate, Dr. YYY.
(2) I also applied to the BBB University, and very recently, I got the offer for 3 years there. Because of the working condition, especially the teaching duty, I am considering whether I could accept their offer or not, and am negotiating with them.
(3) Having the above two problems, I needed to take time. For the application to the position you offered, at this moment, I cannot clarify whether I will be really available for this one: before that, I have to clarify the point (1), and also must decide on (2). I am trying my best to clarify these points, and inform you ASAP. In parallel, I understand that, when there is the other candidate person than me, he or she can take this honorable chance. Anyway, whatever will happen, let me represent my full appreciation for your regard and kindness.
With best regard, Tomoishiro
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