Work Recommendation Letter Generator for Germany

The Work Recommendation Letter (Arbeitszeugnis) is a fundamental document in German employment practice, required by law under § 109 Gewerbeordnung (GewO) and § 630 Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB). It must be issued to all employees upon the termination of their employment relationship, regardless of the reason for termination or the duration of employment. The document serves as an official reference for future employers and must follow specific legal requirements and linguistic conventions. It includes detailed information about the employee's role, responsibilities, performance, and conduct, written in a standardized formal language that German employers understand. The letter must maintain a balance between truthfulness and benevolence, as mandated by German labor courts, and must avoid any discriminatory or prejudicial content as per the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG).

1. Letterhead and Date: Company letterhead with full contact details and current date

2. Personal Information: Employee's full name, date of birth (optional), and duration of employment (start and end dates)

3. Job Title and Role Description: Exact job title and detailed description of main responsibilities and duties

4. Performance Assessment: Evaluation of work quality, knowledge, capabilities, and performance using standard German certificate language

5. Behavioral Assessment: Description of social conduct towards superiors, colleagues, and clients/customers

6. Reason for Departure: Brief statement about why the employment relationship ended (typically noting it was at employee's request)

7. Closing Formula: Standard closing with good wishes for the future and signature block