The Interim Reference Letter (Zwischenzeugnis) is a crucial document in Swiss employment relations, issued while employment continues rather than at its termination. This document is commonly requested during internal job changes, when applying for further education, or when there's a change in supervision. Under Swiss law, specifically Article 330a of the Code of Obligations, employees have the right to request such references at any time. The letter must include detailed information about the position held, responsibilities undertaken, and an evaluation of both performance and conduct. It serves multiple purposes: documenting current performance, supporting internal or external applications, and providing a contemporary record of employment that may be more accurate than a final reference written years later. The interim nature of the reference must be explicitly stated, distinguishing it from a final reference letter (Schlusszeugnis) while maintaining the same standards of truthfulness and objectivity required by Swiss law.

1. Letter Header: Company letterhead with full contact details and date

2. Subject Line: Clear indication that this is an interim reference letter (Zwischenzeugnis)

3. Employee Information: Full name, date of birth, and current position of the employee

4. Employment Duration: Start date of employment and explicit mention that employment is ongoing

5. Role Description: Detailed description of the employee's primary responsibilities and areas of work

6. Performance Assessment: Objective evaluation of work quality, reliability, and competence

7. Behavior and Social Conduct: Assessment of behavior towards superiors, colleagues, and if applicable, clients

8. Closing Statement: Standard closing confirming ongoing employment relationship

9. Signature Block: Date, place, company representative's name, title, and signature