How to get through your probation period

Recruitment Insights: How to get through your probation period.

Congratulations! You’ve been offered a new job. But, before you are given a permanent contract to sign, you will likely need to pass a probation period. Here are some insights for anyone entering the job market for the first time.

The probation period refers to the time at the beginning of employment that an employer uses to see whether a new employee is right for a role. The length of the probation period varies, it is usually between three and six months.

According to recent statistics, 1 in 5 employees does not pass their probation period when starting a new job. So we have put together some top tips to help you make a good first impression and get you through your probation.

Don’t forget the basics:

Look presentable – whatever your role in the company. First impressions count. If you are unsure of the dress code, check with your employer before you start. If you can’t be bothered to take pride in your appearance, your employer will have low expectations of the pride you’ll take in your work.

Be punctual – Don’t be habitually late, it won’t be appreciated. Unexpected things can happen that make you late for work. Make sure if they do to contact your employer in good time and manage their expectations. Good communication is very important.

Don’t watch the clock – you don’t want it to look like you don’t want to be there and that you aren’t making the best use of your time. If you find yourself with nothing to do, ask your line manager if there is something you can help with. Make yourself useful to have around.

Use the first few months of your new job to absorb information and get a grasp of how things are done. Listen to any feedback provided and demonstrate a willingness to learn. Also make sure you’re made aware of your objectives so that you know what’s expected of you.

If any issues do arise, do your best to deal with them at the earliest opportunity, rather than waiting until it’s too late to improve or change things.  Whilst it is good to show initiative and that you can work independently, don’t be afraid to ask questions or to seek help if you need it. This way, you’re showing that doing things right is important to you, and you want your work to be the best it can be. Take on constructive criticism, it may help you to improve your work.

Take accountability. You’re going to make mistakes. Accept it. It’s all part of starting a brand-new job, and your boss is unlikely to overreact while you’re still finding your feet. Taking responsibility for any mistakes you do make is an admirable trait and will help you to avoid making the mistake again.

Whatever happens during your probation period, always try to make the most of your experience. Even if you don’t end up staying with the company long term, there will always be something you can use from your time with the company to help find your next role.

Networking can often be the key to getting where you want to be in your career. Getting to know the people that you work with and making a good lasting impression could lead to a recommendation for another job elsewhere in the future.

And finally, seek advice from your recruitment consultant who will have built a relationship with the hiring company and will be able to guide you through the probation period. Your consultant has every faith in you to get the job done, or they wouldn’t have out you forward for the role in the first place!

If you need help finding your first role, get in touch and one of our friendly team will help you find it and coach you through the first few weeks.