Why Do Companies Commonly Place New Hires On Probation?

Why do companies commonly place new hires on probation? Probationary periods intend to protect employers against hiring unsuitable candidates.

A probationary period is important for so many reasons.

12 Reasons Why Do Companies Commonly Place New Hires On Probation?

Companies place new hires on probation for several reasons. Let’s discuss the most common ones.

1. Protection Against Unsuitable Candidate:

The first reason is to protect the company against hiring an unsuitable candidate.

By having a probationary period, the employer can assess the new hire.

They can see if they truly are a good fit for the position and company culture. If not, they can release the employee without any legal repercussions.

Also, during the probationary period, the new hire gets more training.

This gives them a chance to learn more about their duties and how to perform them properly.

This is important to the company because it helps reduce the risk of errors and accidents.

2. To Determine if Employee is Capable:

Companies place new hires on probation to determine if the employee is capable.

This goes hand-in-hand with protection against unsuitable candidates. Companies can see if the employee is truly capable by having a probationary period.

Can they do the job they were hired to do? If yes, they can move on to the next stage.

If not, they can be let go before they cause any damage or cost the company money.

3. To Give New Employees Time to Adjust:

Another reason companies place new hires on probation is to give them time to adjust.

A new job comes with a lot of changes. First, you’re in a new environment with new people and expectations.

It can be a lot to take in, and companies understand that. That’s why they give you a probationary period-to help you adjust to the new job.

You can settle in and learn what’s expected of you during this time. This type of probationary period is usually shorter than the first one.

After a month or two, you should be able to show that you can do the job and meet the expectations.

4. To Encourage Employees:

Companies also place new hires on probation to encourage the employee.

This means the company wants to see if you are truly interested in the job. And if you will be an asset to the company.

During this period, the company wants to see if you have what it takes to be a good employee.

You will most likely get a permanent position if you do well.

And their investment in you will have paid off. Employees get a sense of job security when they get a permanent position.

5. To Weed Out The Bad Apples:

Unfortunately, not every new hire is a good fit for the company. Even if they looked great on paper and during the interview process.

Sometimes it takes working with someone to realize they’re not a good fit.

And that’s why companies place new hires on probation. It allows them to see if the new hire is a good fit for the company.

If they’re not, it’s best to let them go early rather than later down the road.

6. To Evaluate Their Job Performance:

Placing new hires on probation is also a way for companies to evaluate their job performance.

This is especially important for management positions.

Management positions are often high–pressure and require quick thinking and sound decision-making.

If a new hire can’t handle the pressure or make good decisions, they will not succeed in the role.

And if they’re not successful, the company should find out early on so they can make a change.

7. Discharge Without Liability:

If a company decides to discharge an employee on probation, it can do so without liability.

This is because the employee is still in their probationary period. And they haven’t yet been officially hired.

So if an employee isn’t working out, the company can let them go without legal repercussions.

Also, if an employee is to let go while on probation, they may have a harder time getting unemployment benefits.

8. Easier To Set Expectations:

When an employee is on probation, the company can more easily set expectations.

The employee is still acclimated to the job and company culture.

This is a motivational tactic that can help the employee perform better.

KPIs are easier to set and review during this time as well. And when an employee meets or exceeds those expectations, they can be taken off probationary status.

9. Get To Know The Person Better:

During the probationary period, the company gets to know the employee better.

Again, this is because the employee is still new and adjusting to their role.

The company can see how they:

– Work under pressure

– Interact with co-workers and customers

– Handle criticism and feedback

Some companies use this time to see if the employee is a good cultural fit for the organization.

10. To Send A Message:

Another reason companies may place new hires on probation is to send a message.

The message could be to the employee or other employees. For instance, an organization has had issues with employees not meeting deadlines.

They may put new hires on probation to show they are serious about meeting deadlines.

This sends a message to the new hire that they must be punctual. And they need to meet deadlines, or they will face the consequences.

It also sends a message to other employees that the company is now cracking down on delinquency.

11. To See If The Employee Is Worth Investing In:

Investing in an employee takes time and resources. Organizations want to be sure that the employee will be worth the investment.

The training, onboarding, and development process can be costly. So it is necessary to ensure that the employee will be a good fit for the company.

Putting new hires on probation allows employers to see if the employee is worth investing in before they make a long-term commitment.

12. To Determine If The Employee Is coachable:

Employers want to know if the employee is coachable. Being coachable means employee is receptive to feedback and willing to change.

Also the employee should be able to take direction well. If the employer feels like the employee is not coachable, likely, they will not continue with their employment.

So these are some 12 common reasons companies place new hires on probation.

How To Survive The Probationary Period?

If you have been on probation, ensure you meet your employer’s expectations.

Here are some tips for surviving your probationary period:

1. Positive Attitude:

The most important thing to remember is to maintain a positive attitude. No matter how challenging the situation may be, always remain positive.

This will show your employer that you are willing to work hard and are coachable.

Also, avoid negative people at work. Do not get involved in office gossip or politics.

2. Be Punctual:

Be punctual and present at work every day. If you need to take a leave, inform your superior and make sure you have a valid reason.

Also, avoid taking too many leaves, as it will send a wrong message to your employer.

Also, try to reach the office on time. If you are going to be late, inform your reporting manager.

3. Be Productive:

To impress your boss, you need to be productive. Volunteer for new assignments and put in extra effort to complete them on time.

Also, avoid getting involved in activities that are not related to work. This will show that you are sincere and dedicated to your job.

And, lastly, don’t forget to document your work. This will come in handy during your performance review.

4. Be A Team Player:

Cooperate with your colleagues and superiors. Avoid creating unnecessary waves at work. Be a part of the team and contribute towards its success.

Also, don’t forget to lend your fellow employees a helping hand when needed. This will show that you are a team player and willing to go the extra mile for the company.

Companies always value team players and are more likely to get promoted.

5. Be Flexible:

Be flexible with your work hours and tasks. If your company asks you to work on weekends or overtime, be willing to do so.

Also, if you are take on a new task or project, don’t hesitate. Showing you are flexible will make you a valuable asset to the company.

When you are on probation, you get a chance to prove yourself.

Use this time wisely and do your best to show your employer that you are a valuable asset to the company.

6. Be Coachable:

Be open to feedback and willing to change. Don’t get defensive if your boss or co-workers point out areas where you can improve.

Instead, listen to their feedback and try to make the necessary changes. And when you do make a mistake, own up to it and try to learn from it.

Also, be open to learning new things. If your company offers training, take advantage of it. Showing you are coachable will show you are willing to grow and improve.

7. Follow The Rules:

One of the quickest ways to get fired is to break company rules. It may be tempting to arrive late or call in sick when you’re not, but don’t do it.

Not only is it dishonest, but it’s also a sign that you don’t respect your employer. You may think you’re getting away with it, but your boss knows what’s happening.

And even if they don’t, it’s not worth the risk. Just do what you’re supposed to do, and you’ll be fine.

Final Word:

Why do companies commonly place new hires on probation? The answer is simple: to ensure they are a good fit for the company.

If you want to avoid being on probation or fired, be honest, hardworking, and respectful. Do your best, and you’ll do great.

Last Updated on 11 months by Shahzaib Arshad