A Company Recommendation Letter (Arbeitszeugnis) is a formal document required under German employment law that serves as an official reference for employees. This document is typically issued when an employee leaves a company or upon request during employment (Zwischenzeugnis). Under German law, employees have a legal right to receive such a reference letter, which must be both truthful and benevolent in its assessment. The document includes detailed information about the employment period, job responsibilities, performance evaluation, and behavioral assessment. It must comply with specific legal requirements including the German Civil Code (BGB), Industrial Code (GewO), and data protection regulations (BDSG). The letter uses standardized language and phrases that have developed specific meanings in German business culture, making it a crucial document for an employee's professional development and future job prospects.

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

2. Date and Location: Current date and city/location, following German business letter format

3. Subject Line: Clear indication that this is a recommendation letter (Arbeitszeugnis/Empfehlungsschreiben)

4. Employee Information: Full name and current position of the employee being recommended

5. Employment Period: Precise dates of employment duration

6. Role Description: Detailed description of responsibilities and duties performed

7. Performance Assessment: Evaluation of work quality, skills, and achievements

8. Behavioral Assessment: Description of professional conduct and social behavior in the workplace

9. Closing Statement: Reason for departure (if amicable) and future wishes

10. Signature Block: Official signature, name and title of the authorized representative