The Coop Recommendation Letter is a crucial document in Swiss employment practice, serving as an official employment reference for individuals who have worked within a cooperative structure. This document is required under Swiss law (specifically Article 330a of the Swiss Code of Obligations) and must be provided upon an employee's request. It differs from standard reference letters due to the unique governance structure of cooperatives and their specific operational context. The letter must balance the cooperative's obligation to provide truthful information with the Swiss legal principle of benevolent formulation. It typically includes detailed information about the employment period, responsibilities, performance, and conduct, while considering the cooperative's values and principles. A Coop Recommendation Letter is particularly important in Switzerland's cooperative sector, where many organizations operate under this business model and require specific understanding of cooperative work environments.

1. Letterhead and Date: Official cooperative letterhead including full contact details and current date

2. Addressee Information: Complete details of the recipient or 'To Whom It May Concern'

3. Employee Information: Full name, date of birth, and position(s) held within the cooperative

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

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

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

7. Behavioral Assessment: Description of conduct towards colleagues, superiors, and members/customers

8. Reason for Departure: Brief, neutral statement about why the employment relationship ended

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

10. Signature Block: Official signature, name and title of authorized representative(s)