Do it in person “Hey, I need to talk to you about something you said the other night, can we meet to talk about it?” “Hey, I get the feeling we need to talk about something, can you come over?” Be gentle, kind, and direct “I’m glad you told me, but I’m not interested in that kind of relationship with you. I love being your friend.” “I appreciate you sharing that with me, but I don’t feel that way about you and want to be friends.” Gauge their reaction and check in with them “You look really sad, how are you feeling?” “How do you feel about what I’ve said?” “I’m sorry I’ve hurt your feelings, is there anything I can do as a friend to be here for you?” Give them space if they need it “I feel I may have upset you by telling you that I don’t feel that way about you. Would it help if we didn’t hang out for a while?” “If you need some time away, let me know.” Don’t string them along with excuses “I’m not ready to date anyone right now.” “Let me think about it.” “I like someone else at the moment.” Don’t be harsh “That’s not going to happen. Ever.” “You’re definitely not my type.” Don’t gossip to mutual friends “Trevor asked me out, what was he thinking?!” “So I totally rejected Mary the other day…” Don’t be obnoxious or gloat about any future love interest “You have to meet Dan, you two are so much alike you’ll probably be best friends.” “Carolyn is the best girl I’ve ever known, she’s just perfect!”