General Job Reference Letter Template for Austria

The General Job Reference Letter (Arbeitszeugnis) is a fundamental document in Austrian employment law, serving as an official record of an individual's employment history and performance. It is mandatory for employers to issue this document upon the conclusion of an employment relationship, whether requested by the employee or not. The document plays a crucial role in Austrian professional culture, as future employers typically expect to review it during hiring processes. The content must strike a careful balance between truthfulness and benevolence, following established legal precedents and industry practices. The reference letter should include detailed information about the employee's role, responsibilities, performance, and conduct, while avoiding any potentially discriminatory or prejudicial statements. This document is particularly important in Austrian business culture, where formal documentation of employment history carries significant weight in career advancement.

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

2. Title: Clear identification as 'Arbeitszeugnis' (Job Reference Letter)

3. Personal Information: Employee's full name, date of birth, and position held

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

5. Job Description: Detailed description of main responsibilities and duties

6. Performance Assessment: Evaluation of work quality, reliability, and efficiency

7. Conduct Statement: Description of behavior towards superiors, colleagues, and if applicable, customers

8. Reason for Departure: Brief, neutral statement about the reason for termination (typically stating it was by mutual agreement or at employee's request)

9. Closing Formula: Standard closing with good wishes for the future

10. Signature Block: Company representative's name, position, and signature with company stamp