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What is a probation period?

Simply put it is a trial period which both the new employee and employer can terminate the employment with given notice documented in the contract.

How long does it last?

They usually last between 3 – 6 months.

What are the benefits for a company?

A probation period allows you to assess whether an employee is right for you. You can take the time to evaluate if your new employee is showing that same potential that you identified in them during the recruitment process. If it turns out that the person you’ve employed fails to meet expectations and you deem them unsuitable for the role, then the trial period gives you a safety net and allows you to terminate their employment.

What is the benefit for the employee?

In the same way that the organisation is testing out the employee, the individual can use this time to work out if the company is a good match for them. They can evaluate if the job is as it was described in the recruitment process and can assess if they fit in with the company culture. They can also gauge the workload and responsibilities and determine if get on with their co-workers and line-manager.

What should a company do in the probationary period?

Every employer should have a plan for their employee for the first three months, which should be shared so the employee knows what is expected of them.  The employer should sit down with the employee on a regular basis to see if they are meeting those goals, identify any training requirements.  These should be documented and shared with the employee.

What happens at the end of the probationary period?

This is when the employer gives feedback to the employee on how their first three months to see if they have met the required standard and specifically the following areas

• Achieving results
• Work and communicating with people
• Initiative and ownership
• Technical skills
• Management

Also ask the employee for feedback, remember every process can be improved.

The employer will put in writing the outcome of passing, extending or failing their probation.

What changes when they pass their probation?

That depends on what is documented in your contract.  Often the notice period changes from one week to one month, company benefits are available to the employee.

If you need assistance setting up the probationary process, terminating contracts or any other HR issue please contact us on Enquiries@HRBusCons.co.uk.

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