§109 GewO: right to an employment reference
Every employee is entitled to a written reference when their employment ends. What does it have to contain?
Reference language and secret codes
In German references, formulations sound positive but actually mean a poor grade. The most common encoded ratings — and how to avoid them.
The five-step grading scale in references
From "very satisfactory" to "always to our fullest satisfaction" — how the satisfaction formulations correspond to grades 1–5.
Benevolent and truthful: no contradiction
The Federal Labour Court requires both: the reference must be true and benevolent. How this works without lying.
Interim reference: when and how?
An employee can also request an interim reference during an ongoing employment relationship — on change of supervisor, promotion or on request.
AGG: what must not appear in a reference
Gender, age, nationality, religion, disability — references to AGG-protected characteristics are not permitted in references and can lead to claims for damages.
Simple vs. qualified reference
The simple reference confirms the employment only, the qualified reference also assesses performance and conduct. When may each be issued?