Probation periods are considered ‘trial periods’ for new recruits and usually last for three to six months. They allow employers to assess whether or not they have hired someone who is competent and able to deliver; and if that is the case, the employee becomes a permanent one.
On the other hand, probation periods allow new employees to determine whether or not they like the organization they have started to work for. If you are currently serving your probation period at a new organization, or about to, keep the following in mind.
1. Gather maximum information:
As a new employee on probation, it is likely that you will not be under pressure to achieve targets or key performance indicators (KPIs); therefore, this is the ideal time for you to find out more about the organization, such as its culture, SOPs and reporting chains.
2. Discuss your responsibilities with your line manager:
Have an open discussion with your line manager regarding his/her expectations of you, the goals and KPIs you need to achieve after your probation period is over, and how you will be evaluated.
Remember to be clear with regard to your workload and deadlines, as you should not miss them, especially when you are on your probation.
3. Observe and show initiative:
The more you observe, the more you will learn. However, take the initiative to deliver more than you are expected to and be ready to provide support to your team members.
Doing so will illustrate that you are competent, a go-getter and a team player.
4. Increase your visibility:
View this time as an opportunity to get to know your co-workers, peers and colleagues and make a good impression. in addition to improving your visibility at the organization, this will also illustrate that you have good people skills, which are increasingly important.
By Monica Peter. The writer is an HR Professional and a certified trainer at a multinational company. monicaapeter@gmail.com