Tell me about probation periods! <worried>

[shreddies]

I have a new job, which I really like, I like the people (hallo HC! have emailed you) and the work is really interesting.

However, I have been out of my depth in some of the things I have been asked to do - and my concentration has been crap since I went back to work. I have had some quite mixed feedback recently.

SO, there are two months to go to the end of my (six month) probation period - if they decide not to keep me on how much notice are they obliged to give? And if that's the case how would I play it with a new employer? I would really like to know so that I can start looking, but don't want to bring it up iyswim.

Help!

sorry shreddies i only have my own exp to go on, but it will be what ever notice outlined in your contract unless otherwise stated x

Shreddies,

Yes, it's your notice period in your contract. You need to have done a year before you get all the unfair dismissal protections.

I know that this wasn't your qeustion, but have you thought about confronting this head on before the end of your probationary period? There's a world of difference for an employer between an employee who is having trouble with a few areas and settling in, but knows it and is committed to improving, and someone who doesn't even realise that they're not making the grade.

I know it's scary, but if you think that there are issues, I would strongly recommend setting up a meeting with your boss. Talk about how much you're enjoying the job. Address your areas of weakness, express a willingness to do whatever it takes to get up to speed on those points, ask for ideas, etc, etc. To me, I would have much more faith in someone who did that than someone who just hoped it would go away. Likewise, addressing it before the end of the probationary period gives you a chance to have started addressing it before they have to review you at the end of the period.

You might even find that you're worrying about nothing performance wise!

hi shreddies

If you really like the job don't start looking, do something about it. Lots of people hate their jobs or struggle to find something right for them, so if you really like it, stick at it.

You know what's wrong. You know the things you've been struggling with, you've had feedback. What are you doing about it? Do exactly as Ribena says, arrange a meeting with your boss, to discuss the things (you feel) you are struggling with and to address them. Go in with your own proposals about how you are going to address them, not to ask him/her. Identify some realistic support you might need which would help you get there - could be training or could be as simple as more regular one-to-ones booked in with your manager to keep a closer eye on what you are doing.

As a manager who might be umming and erring about keeping someone at this stage, if the person had identified problems and showed commitment to resolving them, I would be far far more likely to keep them on. Lots of things you can teach someone, but a good attitude is something you can't teach and is worth an awful lot.

If they let you go they will have the hassle and expense of recruiting a replacement so they won't want to do so unless they really feel they have to. If you show that you are at least worth a second chance to prove yourself, they may well give it to you.

Good luck!

Thanks, that's really good advice, I'd been wondering about doing something like that, but wasn't quite sure. I'll definitely take that on board and set up a meeting. I think being a bit more powerful about it will make a world of difference to me whether it works out or not anyway

Go for it! Tell us what happens...