If you receive a reference request phone call or document. A manager should only speak to areas of the employee's skills and experience about which he has direct knowledge.

There are several questions a manager should not answer:

☛ Example Question: Predict whether your former employee will be successful in the position for which they are being considered. (Got a crystal ball, anyone?)

Good answer: When the employee worked for me, in her position with my company, she was a strong contributor whose work was appreciated.

Example Question: What were the employee's weaknesses?

Good answer: She had no weaknesses worth mentioning that affected her ability to perform her job capably, when she worked for me.

☛ Example Question: Why did the employee leave the position in which she reported to you?

Good Answer: She sought increased responsibility and to round out her knowledge of our company and products.