[header] How to give a positive reference for an employee [title] Offer to write a positive letter. [step] If someone approaches you about providing them a reference, first consider their request. If you have had a good experience with the person and can positively support their candidacy for a position, then offer to write them a positive letter. 
However, it's important that you are honest, as your reputation could be damaged if the person doesn't act in the manner you described at their new job. [substeps] Don't offer to write a letter if you cannot write anything truthfully positive.