Employment Reference (Arbeitszeugnis): Entitlement, Grades and Hidden Wording
You are entitled to an employment reference that is benevolent and at the same time truthful. Behind seemingly friendly phrasing, however, grades are often hidden – and you should know how to read them.
Entitlement to a Reference (§ 109 GewO)
When the employment relationship ends, you are entitled to a written reference. You may choose between a simple reference (einfaches Zeugnis – stating the nature and duration of the work) and a qualified reference (qualifiziertes Zeugnis – additionally covering performance and conduct).
Benevolent and Truthful
The reference must be worded benevolently and must not needlessly hinder your professional advancement – while at the same time it must correspond to the truth. From this tension a distinct coded language of references (Zeugnissprache) has developed.
Understanding the Coded Language of References
Certain formulas correspond to school grades. "Stets zu unserer vollsten Zufriedenheit" (always to our fullest satisfaction) stands for sehr gut (very good), whereas "zur vollen Zufriedenheit" (to our full satisfaction) means only befriedigend (satisfactory). The absence of customary building blocks too – such as a closing formula of thanks and regret – can amount to a downgrade.
Secret Codes and Impermissible Wording
Hidden negative messages and impermissible references – for example to illness, works council activity or trade union membership – are not allowed. You do not have to accept ambiguous phrasing that in truth downgrades you.
Right to Correction
If the reference is incorrect or worse than justified, you can demand a correction (Berichtigung). For a grade better than "befriedigend" (satisfactory) it is generally you who must demonstrate the corresponding performance; for a worse grade the employer bears the burden of substantiation.
Relevant law
Frequently asked questions
Yes, upon termination of the employment relationship under § 109 GewO. You may request either a simple or a qualified reference.
"Stets zu unserer vollsten Zufriedenheit" (always to our fullest satisfaction) corresponds to the grade sehr gut (very good), whereas "zur vollen Zufriedenheit" (to our full satisfaction) means only befriedigend (satisfactory). The exact choice of words encodes the assessment.
It must be truthful, but benevolent. Hidden downgrades and impermissible references (e.g. to illness) are not allowed.
Yes, by way of correction (Berichtigung). For an above-average grade ("gut"/"sehr gut" – good/very good) it is generally you who must demonstrate the performance; a below-average grade must be justified by the employer.
By the end of the employment relationship. You should request it promptly; waiting too long can make enforcement more difficult.
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