Job Reference Letter For Coworker Template for Germany

The Job Reference Letter For Coworker (Arbeitszeugnis) is a fundamental document in German employment law, required whenever an employment relationship ends. This document is mandatory under §109 of the German Trade Regulation Act (Gewerbeordnung) and §630 of the German Civil Code (BGB). It must be provided when an employee leaves their position, regardless of the reason for departure or length of employment. The letter follows a standardized format using specific German reference letter language codes and must include detailed information about the employee's duties, performance, and behavior while maintaining a positive tone. Unlike many other jurisdictions, German Job Reference Letters must be written in a way that is both truthful and benevolent, using carefully chosen phrases that have acquired standardized meanings through court decisions and common practice.

1. Header Information: Company letterhead, date, and title 'Job Reference Letter' (Arbeitszeugnis)

2. Personal Information: Employee's full name, date of birth (optional), and current job title

3. Employment Period: Precise start and end dates of employment

4. Job Description: Detailed description of roles, responsibilities, and areas of work

5. Performance Assessment: Evaluation of work quality, knowledge, capabilities, and achievement of objectives using standard German reference letter phrases

6. Behavioral Assessment: Description of social behavior towards colleagues, supervisors, and clients

7. Reason for Departure: Brief statement about why the employment relationship ended (typically initiated by employee)

8. Closing Formula: Expression of gratitude, good wishes for the future, and signature block