A colleague you've known for a long time is leaving for a new job but you can't attend their leaving party. Write a letter: Apologize and explain why you can't attend Say how you felt about working with them Suggest how to keep in touch.

Dear Mr Blue, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to let you know how sorry I am that I won’t be able to attend your leaving party. Unfortunately, I have a prior commitment that I can’t reschedule, and it’s truly disappointing not to be there to celebrate this special occasion with […]