Many employers have a standard probation period of three or six months. The goal of the probation period often goes beyond just checking the qualifications of a new hire. It does scrutinise the person’s work ethic and ability to fit within the companies.
It is expected that a new hire will put his or her best foot forward during the initial period. Even though this is a learning-curve period, knowing that your performance is under review — almost always — should keep you motivated.
That is why during this period, it is important to avoid any major complications that could set you back into a questionable status. These complications include, for example, getting into a major conflict with a co-worker or a supervisor or bringing in a distracting personal issue that is not an emergency.
To be successful during a probation period, you must keep in mind the following.
Make a lasting impression
You scored the job because of the first great impression you left with the employer during the interview. Now it is time to make a lasting impression that seals the deal. How? Continue with the same professional attitude, positivity and drive, which you presented in the job interview.
Make sure that you don’t settle too soon into a job. The first few months are critical into how you will be perceived as a co-worker and an employee. So continue to be enthusiastic, creative and positive about the job. Make sure you combine learning with accomplishments. Getting things done as expected validates the decision to hire you. In addition, it does give you some credit to lean on if you make mistakes in this initial period.
Focus on business
Although workplace environments are different, and some tend to be more personal than others, stay professional. That is always the safest way to go, especially in the initial phase when you’re not sure how much is too much, or you’re new to the cultural. Crossing the line by making an inappropriate personal remark or engaging in personal conflicts can jeopardise your position.
Having said that, try to observe and learn more about the workplace culture to know where the boundaries are. Of course, you don’t want to pretend to be something that you’re not. But at the same time, if you’re walking into a new environment — or a new culture — being cautious is probably the best course of action.
Know expectations precisely
Jobs are not all the same, and so aren’t employers. Some employers allow new hires months and months of orientation and learning before expectations become more serious. Others expect results on day one. Learning exactly what is expected from you can save your job — or save you much stress if you know that time is there for you to learn and adapt.
It is your duty to ask and figure out these expectations. Be clear regarding timelines and procedures. If your questions are not answered, ask for more support to understand your expectations. Ideally you will have a set of goals or expectations set in your job description, which should keep you on target. But if not, seek explanations early on in your probation period.
Know your supervisor
Mixed messages could get on the wrong track. Know how your supervisor communicate and make sure you understand the directions set for your position. In many workplaces, coworkers take a great responsibility in orienting a new hire, but if things go wrong the new hire has to answer to a supervisor.
If you feel you’re not getting the orientation and training that you need to do your job adequately, talk to your supervisor. Without complaining about your coworkers, just explain that certain work tasks remain unclear to you and you will need more support. If you’re sent back to the same person who trained you before and you still feel uncertain about your abilities, speak up and ask for more help.
Generally, employers are more likely to appreciate your requests if they are not dealing with a problem at hand. So ask questions and get help as soon as possible.
The writer, a former Gulf News Business Features Editor, is a Seattle-based editor.
Be successful on probation
Make a lasting positive impression
Stay professional and business-focused
Clarify expectations
Pre-empt problems with asking questions
— R.O.
