Document background
The Letter of Recommendation for Work Experience, known in Germany as an Arbeitszeugnis, is a fundamental document in German employment law and business practice. Every employee in Germany has a legal right to receive this document upon leaving their employment, as mandated by Section 109 of the German Industrial Code (Gewerbeordnung) and Section 630 of the German Civil Code (BGB). Unlike simple employment confirmations, this document must provide a detailed assessment of the employee's performance and behavior while following the principle of 'benevolent truthfulness.' It serves as a crucial document for future employment opportunities and must be written in a way that avoids potential legal disputes while providing meaningful information to future employers. The document typically includes standardized phrases that have specific meanings within German business culture and must be carefully crafted to comply with both legal requirements and established conventions.
