10 Tips for Successfully Completing a Probationary Period
The hardest part is behind you. After numerous interviews and test assignments, you have finally received an offer and landed your dream job. However, there is still one more stage to go through – the probationary period. This is when you have to demonstrate the skills, knowledge, and potential you have acquired to convince the management that you are the right employee they were looking for.
Typically, a probationary period lasts for 3-6 months, depending on the position and organization.
What is evaluated during a probationary period?
Most companies pay attention to the presence of certain “red flags.” In addition to assessing competencies and job performance quality, managers look at:
- Meeting deadlines
- Initiative
- Collaboration with colleagues
- Communication style
- Interest in the work, and so on.
Therefore, these are the aspects that should be given the highest attention.
To make the probationary period exciting rather than stressful, here are 10 effective tips:
1. Expectations vs Reality
At the very beginning, discuss your goals, expectations, and precisely understand what is expected of you with the management. This way, you can avoid misunderstandings, discrepancies, and uncomfortable situations, and establish mutually acceptable goals and agreements regarding the work. Trust me, this is a great foundation for successful collaboration.
2. Work Plan
Develop a personal action plan with your supervisor during the probationary period. It is desirable that the document outlines your specific responsibilities and deadlines for their completion. Equally important is defining the criteria by which job performance will be evaluated.
3. Feedback
Don’t hesitate to regularly seek feedback. It is necessary to receive an objective assessment of your work, identify strengths and weaknesses, and facilitate further professional growth.
4. Proactiveness
Don’t wait for the team to guide you step by step. Be proactive, show interest in what’s happening with your colleagues, take initiative, and offer your ideas. This will demonstrate your independence and willingness to contribute to the company.
5. Punctuality
Adhere to work schedules and deadlines. Punctuality is an important quality that reflects your responsibility and professional approach to work.
6. Documenting Achievements
Record your successes during the probationary period. This will help you have a clear picture of your achievements and will be useful when evaluating your performance.
7. Communication
Effective communication is the key to success in any company. Be polite, attentive, listen to your colleagues, share your thoughts, and experiences. Remember that the review you receive from the management also depends on the team’s perception of you.
8. Realistic Assessment of Abilities
Many newcomers make the same mistake – trying to portray themselves as more skilled and competent than they actually are. They take on too many tasks, set unrealistic deadlines, and then work late into the night to fulfill their promises.
Work within your capabilities. Realistically assess tasks, openly communicate how much time they will take to complete. Be honest in your forecasts.
9. Curiosity
Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the probationary period. This is your learning and adaptation period. When if not now?
Asking questions demonstrates your interest, motivation, and desire to learn more about the business, processes, and company requirements. They will help you understand the inner workings, avoid misunderstandings, and ensure effective communication with management and colleagues.
10. Suggestions Instead of Criticism
Since you will have a fresh perspective on many things in your new position – internal processes, team working styles, or individual employees – refrain from criticizing what you dislike right away. Instead, try to make constructive suggestions.
Be cautious in your expressions as it can alienate people who have been with the company for a long time and have established routines.
The probationary period is your unique opportunity to gain new knowledge and experience. Remember that at this stage, not only is the company observing you, but you are also observing it. Make sure you derive professional satisfaction from your work, feel comfortable with your colleagues, and align with the company’s corporate values. This is the key to a long and fruitful collaboration.
