Was ist der Unterschied zwischen einem Arbeitszeugnis oder Arbeitsbestätigung?
What is the difference between an employment reference and a confirmation of employment?
When writing an employment reference, there are many things to consider, including the type of reference, such as an interim reference, internship reference, training reference, final reference, etc. A basic distinction is made between an employment reference, i.e. a qualified employment reference or full reference, and a confirmation of employment, a so-called simple employment reference.
In simple terms, a confirmation of employment is a type of activity and employment certificate. It must only list the type of employment relationship, the employee's function, duties and personal details, as well as the duration of employment.
It is not uncommon to assume that a simple reference is something worse, even negative, compared to a qualified reference. In principle, there is no need to worry about this.
For example, it is simply customary to issue a confirmation of employment instead of a full reference for a shorter or temporary period of employment and work assignment. For example, an employment reference should also refer to the employee's performance, qualifications, behavior and social skills. It is difficult and unrealistic to reflect this truthfully, correctly, completely and favorably, even though you have only been able to get to know the employee for a short or irregular period of time.
However, if a confirmation of employment is issued even after a longer period of employment, this may well indicate major disagreements between the employee and the employer, which is probably intended to avoid a negative reference.