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The Former Employer Letter of Recommendation (Arbeitszeugnis) is a crucial document in German employment law, mandated by §109 of the German Trade Regulation Act (Gewerbeordnung) and §630 of the German Civil Code (BGB). Every employee in Germany has a legal right to receive this document upon termination of employment or upon request during employment. Unlike casual recommendation letters in other jurisdictions, the German Arbeitszeugnis follows a highly formalized structure with specific language conventions and must balance the principles of benevolence (Wohlwollensprinzip) with truthfulness. The document serves as an official employment reference for future employers and can significantly impact an individual's career prospects. It must include detailed assessments of performance, behavior, and competencies, while adhering to strict legal requirements regarding content and format.

1. Company Header and Date: Official company letterhead including full company details, current date, and location

2. Title (Arbeitszeugnis): Clear identification of document type as a reference letter

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

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

5. Job Description: Detailed description of role, responsibilities, and areas of work

6. Performance Evaluation: Assessment of work quality, performance, and capability (using standard German reference letter phrases)

7. Behavioral Assessment: Evaluation of conduct towards superiors, colleagues, and clients

8. Reason for Departure: Brief statement of why the employment relationship ended (typically noting it was at employee's request)

9. Closing Formula: Standard closing including future wishes and thanks

10. Signature Block: Date, location, company representative's signature and position