An Arbeitszeugnis is a formal written reference issued by German employers. Unlike reference letters in many other countries, it is expected, standardized, and often required in German job applications. Understanding how it works—and what it really says—can significantly affect your chances on the job market.
What Is an Arbeitszeugnis?
An Arbeitszeugnis is an official employment reference that summarizes:
• Your role and responsibilities
• Your performance and skills
• Your behavior toward colleagues and supervisors
German law requires that it must be:
• Truthful
• Well-intentioned (wohlwollend)
• Professional in tone
This is why a unique “coded language” has developed.
When Are You Entitled to an Arbeitszeugnis?
You are legally entitled to an Arbeitszeugnis when:
• An employment relationship ends
• You explicitly request one
There are two main types:
Simple Arbeitszeugnis
• Confirms employment duration and role only
• Rarely sufficient for professional applications
Qualified Arbeitszeugnis (Standard)
• Includes performance and behavior evaluation
• What most employers expect
How to Request an Arbeitszeugnis
Best practice:
• Request it politely and in writing
• Do so shortly before or after leaving
• Ask explicitly for a qualified Arbeitszeugnis
Employers are used to this request—it is not considered impolite in Germany.
The Famous “Coded Language” Explained
German Arbeitszeugnisse almost never criticize directly.
Instead, they use fixed phrases with specific meanings.
Common Phrases and What They Really Mean
| Phrase | Real Meaning |
|---|---|
| stets zu unserer vollsten Zufriedenheit | Excellent (top grade) |
| stets zu unserer vollen Zufriedenheit | Very good |
| u unserer vollen Zufriedenheit | Good |
| zu unserer Zufriedenheit | Satisfactory |
| hat sich bemüht | Poor / negative |
A single missing word like “stets” can downgrade the entire reference.
Behavioral Evaluation
Behavior is usually described at the end.
Order matters:
1. Supervisors
2. Colleagues
3. Clients
If someone is missing or reordered, it may signal a problem.
Example:
• Sein Verhalten gegenüber Vorgesetzten, Kollegen und Kunden war einwandfrei.
→ Very positive
What to Check Carefully Before Accepting It
Red Flags
• Missing performance assessment
• Vague descriptions
• Short or unusually generic text
• Spelling or grammar mistakes
In Germany, details matter. Recruiters read Arbeitszeugnisse closely.
Can You Ask for Changes?
Yes. And this is normal.
You can request:
• Corrections of factual errors
• Adjustments to wording if the evaluation is unclear or misleading
Employers often revise references—especially if you provide specific suggestions.
Arbeitszeugnis for Students & Interns
Interns and working students (Werkstudenten) are also entitled to:
• A qualified reference
• Performance-based wording
Even short-term roles can matter later.
How Recruiters Actually Use Arbeitszeugnisse
Recruiters use them to:
• Cross-check your CV
• Evaluate reliability and consistency
• Detect conflicts or performance issues
A weak Arbeitszeugnis can silently undermine an otherwise strong profile.
Reality Check
• An Arbeitszeugnis is not optional in Germany
• “Neutral” wording is often negative
• Small phrasing differences matter more than tone
• You are allowed—and expected—to protect your interests
For many international applicants, misunderstanding the Arbeitszeugnis is a hidden rejection reason.