       [LETTER OF REFERENCE FOR FORMER EMPLOYEE]
General rules:
     
     * The Fair Employment act prohibits employers from
       saying anything negative about former employees.
       Therefore offer only the facts or confirm only what
       the prospective employer offers. If you were
       satisfied with the employee, offer comments about the
       quality of work. 
                         COMPANY
                         ADDRESS
                     CITY, STATE ZIP



Date


Name
Address
City, State Zip


Dear             ,
     [John Smith was employed with our firm as account 
executive from Dec. 1, 1984 through Jan. 1, 1986.  He left 
our firm to accept a better position].
     [During his employment here we were very pleased with 
his work. He was a hard worker, showed considerable 
initiative, and accepted additional responsibility well. 
Given a suitable opening, we would rehire Mr. Smith without 
hesitation].
     [If you need additional information, just let us know].


Sincerely,



Personnel director
