How do you tell someone that he/she is not qualified?

"My boss said your not qualified, even though I think you are. I'm sorry, I really am"

First and foremost, it isn't your job or responsibility to ask the HR. Yes, you did refer the person, but it's his/her obligation to ask personally (or by phone) so as to show the company that he is indeed excited to work with them, and just maybe they would change their minds. But if I were in your position, and you called up the HR. I would then tell my friend: "Hi, I just asked them about the position, they're still reviewing the interviewees, I'll get back to you on it." That's the single-most safe answer I've ever heard of and used myself. It's not insulting but it's not also keeping him high hopes because he knows that there were 'others' being interviewed. Then if he asks again a few days after and you know that the position have been filled, then tell him that they've filled the position.

Just be honest and tell him the truth. Tell him that you have spoken to the HR manager and the manager told you that he does not have the qualities they're looking for in that particular position. Say sorry if it's necessary to make him feel a little at ease. If he is matured enough he would understand that not all companies would like the character he possess. Besides, he should consider that only 1 out 5 applications will have the chance to get an initial interview and 1 out 10 applications would be considered for a job.

It's not your job to deliver that news its the HR managers. I try not to refer friends to employment for a couple of reasons- I don't want their behavior to impact my standing in the company and I don't want to be a part of someone losing their job. I work with a friends daughter- that is to say that I am a house charge in a small hospital- which means I am the boss and I have had to write up my best friends child twice- now our friendship is strained and did I mention we live next door to each other too. I didn't get her the job she actualy worked there first but it doesn't make it any less odd to have to reprimand her. Hope this helps

Be honest with him tell him exactly as it is because there is nothing you can do if he is not qualified.tell him that your HR manager says the post require someone with lot of experience, i know is your friend but if he is not qualified you cannot do anything.and you can refer him to somewhere where you know that he will be fit for their posts.Or maybe he just wanna work next to you?