I'd email him a link to the appropriate care sheet and suggest that the best way of getting over the fear is to reach in and pet it. Gradually, as the person grows more used to the snake, they may feel comfortable enough with picking it up while still in the cage. Over time they can handle it outside of the cage.

Tell this person to view lots of YouTube videos about these snakes, too. There are many of them, including this one: Corn Snake Care : Proper Handling of Corn Snakes http://youtube.com/watch?v=OJIQzZlj3_0

I hope that helps.