Work commitment letter: model and how to use it

Suppose that, after an intense job search and numerous interviews, you’ve finally secured that position you’re so passionate about. Now, you want to set clear expectations before starting and establish a strong working relationship with your new company. How can you do that? The answer lies in the employment commitment letter, a crucial document that ensures effective communication between employers and employees. 

Although it may not be widely known, this letter is a formal agreement between both parties that outlines the expectations, responsibilities, and mutual agreements that will define your working relationship. If you want to know the characteristics of a letter and the structure of this document, keep reading.

First, understand what an employment commitment letter is 

As mentioned, the employment commitment letter is a document companies use to put in writing the terms and conditions of the employment contract. The goal is to ensure that all parties involved clearly understand their responsibilities and obligations, providing clarity and avoiding misunderstandings.  

This type of letter can be used both when hiring a new employee or promoting an existing one within the same organization. It’s also useful for individuals undergoing training within the company. In these cases, the letter of commitment should include training periods, evaluation methods, supervisors or mentors, as well as the position you’ll hold after completing the program. 

So, what is the exact structure of an employment commitment letter? Let’s go over that next. 

Structure of an employment commitment letter 

The structure of this letter may vary depending on the company and context in which it’s used. However, one common recommendation applies: the letter should use clear, concise, and professional language. Also, keep in mind the following structure: 

Header and initial greeting 

• Place and date: Indicate the city and date on which the letter is written. 
• Employer details: Include the name of the company or employer, address, and other relevant information. 
• Address the recipient personally whenever possible, avoiding generic greetings such as “To whom it may concern.” 

Body of the letter 

• Confidentiality statement: Indicate that the letter is personal and confidential. 
• Description of the agreement: Detail the terms and conditions of the employment commitment. This may include the employee’s position, whether the contract is temporary or permanent, and working hours. 
• Include information about salary, bonuses, benefits, and other compensation. 
• List the employee’s functions and responsibilities, as well as the goals and objectives to be met. 
• You may include clauses regarding company information confidentiality and non-competition during or after employment. 

Closing 

• End the letter with a polite closing. 
• Leave space for both employer and employee to sign the letter as a sign of agreement. 

3 things you should review in an employment commitment letter 

If you’ve already received the letter or are waiting for it, carefully review these key elements before signing:  

• Are the negotiated conditions clearly stated? Verify that all agreed aspects regarding the job position, salary, schedule, and benefits are correct and easy to understand. 
• Who signs the letter? Ensure that the signatory has the authority to do so. Also, check that the letter is stamped by the company and that you keep a valid copy for yourself. 
• Are the dates in the letter correct? Mistakes can happen when drafting these documents, so double-check that the start date matches what was agreed upon to avoid misunderstandings. Remember, once you sign this document, the same details will appear in your employment contract.  

Example letter

Finally, here’s an example of an employment commitment letter that includes all the elements explained above. Take note! 

[Place and Date] 

[Title and Name of Sender] 

[Position in the Company] 

To the attention of: [Title and Full Name of Recipient] 

Dear [Name], 

Through this document, I, [Title and Full Name of Sender], with identification number [number], in my capacity as [manager] of [company name], have offered the position of [job title] in this company to [Title and Full Name of Recipient], holder of identification number [number], with a base salary of [salary in euros] per month and a productivity bonus of [percentage]. To begin as soon as possible. 

Since Mr./Ms. [Title and Last Name] currently maintains an employment relationship with the company [current employer], a period of [number] days is granted to allow them to give notice and comply with the legally required pre-notice, thus allowing time to find and train their replacement. 

This job offer will remain valid until [date]. After that date, if no confirmation of interest or proof of termination from the current employer is received, this employment commitment letter will be considered expired and void. 

This offer is binding and constitutes a contractual agreement between the parties, who must honor the previously agreed-upon conditions. 

[Handwritten Signature] 
[Title and Full Name] 
[Position within the Company] 

[Recipient’s Handwritten Signature] 
[Title and Full Name of Recipient] 

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