Job Reference Letters Of Recommendation Template for Austria

Job Reference Letters Of Recommendations (Arbeitszeugnisse) are fundamental documents in Austrian employment law, mandated by sections 39 AngG and 1163 ABGB of Austrian legislation. These letters serve multiple purposes: they document the employment relationship, provide performance evaluation, and support future job applications. Every employee in Austria has a legal right to receive such a reference letter upon termination of their employment, regardless of the reason for termination or length of service. The document must be issued on company letterhead, include specific details about the employment period and duties, and provide an accurate yet positively-framed assessment of the employee's performance and conduct. Unlike reference letters in some other countries, Austrian Arbeitszeugnisse follow strict conventions regarding language and content, avoiding coded negative messages while maintaining truthfulness. These letters are particularly important in the Austrian job market, where they are standard requirements for job applications and are carefully scrutinized by potential employers.

1. Company Header: Official company letterhead including full legal name, address, and contact details

2. Date and Title: Current date and clear title 'Arbeitszeugnis' (Job Reference Letter)

3. Employee Personal Information: Full name, date of birth (if relevant), and position title of the employee

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

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

6. Performance Assessment: Evaluation of work quality, reliability, and efficiency (must be truthful and positive in tone)

7. Behavioral Assessment: Description of conduct towards supervisors, colleagues, and clients

8. Reason for Departure: Brief, neutral statement about the reason for ending the employment relationship

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

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