What is a Probationary Period?

  • A set timeframe for managers to evaluate if a colleague meets the role's expectations.

  • A chance for the colleague to decide if the job and company culture are a good match for them.

  • A period for both sides to work together and establish a solid relationship for future success.

Probation period applies to colleagues on permanent and fixed term contract.

Probation Period Length

  • UK, Spain, Germany, Australia - 6 months

  • Netherlands - 2 months

  • Romania - 90 days (non managerial roles), 120 days (managerial roles)

  • US - no probation period

Note: Fixed term contract probations vary. Contact us via People Team Support ticket for more information.

Your role

  • Hold regular, structured 1:1s from day 1.

  • Co-create with your new joiner clear objectives to be achieved by the end of the probation.

  • Provide training and coaching.

  • Give feedback early and often, using specific examples.

  • Monitor progress, behaviour, attendance, and engagement.

  • Document key discussions and decisions.

  • Apply the same standards fairly and consistently.

  • Do not make decisions based on any protected characteristic (e.g. pregnancy, disability, race). This is unlawful discrimination.

Your Action Plan

Stage

Your actions

Purpose

Day 1

Welcome & onboarding

  • Give clarity and a warm welcome

  • Introduce buddy and explain their role

  • Create a plan to manage probation

Week 1

Hold an expectations-setting meeting

  • Review job description and initial responsibilities

  • Co-create SMART objectives for first 30/60/90 days

  • Ensure mandatory trainings are completed

Month 1

Conduct a 30 day check-in

  • Review objectives progress and share feedback

  • Provide coaching and keep development on track

  • Escalate any concerns early to your People Partner

Midpoint

Hold mid-probation review

Final Month

Prepare and hold end of probation review

  • Decide outcome:

    • Pass - colleague continues in their role.

    • Extended - more time needed, with support plan.

    • Fail - role not the right fit.

  • Update Probation status in Bob

Updating Probation Status in Bob

  1. Go to Bob.

  2. Use the search box at the top to find the colleague’s profile.

  3. From the top right corner select Actions.

  4. Select Update profile.

  5. Select Probation Status.

  6. Update the status and the effective date.

  7. Select Next.

  8. Click on Add reason for change and add your comments.

  9. Select Done.

The update will go to the People team for approval.

Completing the Task in Bob

  1. From the left navigation menu select Tasks.

  2. Tick the checkbox next to the pending probation task.

Additional Notes

  • If probation is passed, on the end of probation period your team member will receive a confirmation letter.

  • If probation is extended or failed, the People team will issue required documents.

Can’t find what you are looking for? Contact us via People Team Support ticket.