In Sri Lanka, it is common for employees finishing their employment to request a service letter (sometimes called a “service certificate”). Unfortunately, many organisations use this as leverage threatening to delay or withhold the letter if the employee resigns or leaves on short notice.
This practice creates unnecessary fear. The truth is: a service letter is not the golden ticket to your future career. Here’s why.
1. Employers Rarely Rely on Service Letters
Today’s employers care more about your skills, performance, and references than a piece of paper. Hiring managers usually verify employment history directly through reference checks or LinkedIn profiles. In fact, many global and local companies never ask for a service letter at all.
2. Digital Records Speak Louder
Your employment history is already documented in payroll systems, EPF/ETF contributions, and LinkedIn. These digital footprints carry more weight than a templated letter that simply confirms dates of employment.
3. References Trump Service Letters
When considering a candidate, hiring managers almost always call referees your former managers, colleagues, or mentors. A strong verbal endorsement means far more than a generic service letter ever could.
4. Global Hiring Practices Have Moved On
In most countries, “service letters” are outdated. Instead, candidates provide resumes, references, and work portfolios. Sri Lanka is slowly aligning with this global standard, and modern employers are increasingly unconcerned about whether you have one.
5. Don't Let Fear Hold You Back
If your current employer threatens to withhold a service letter, remember:
- You still have legal rights as an employee
- You can prove your employment history through salary slips, contracts, and EPF records
- Most importantly, no credible employer will reject you purely because you do not have one
Final Thought
A service letter might feel like a safety net, but it is not the key to your next opportunity. Your skills, reputation, and professional network will open more doors than any single document. Do not let outdated practices or the fear of losing a letter limit your career growth.
