Probationary Period

Meaning & Definition

Probationary Periods

Probationary periods are defined periods of time wherein employees are exempt from certain contractual terms, most importantly the notice period required for termination. The probationary period allows both employee and employer to see if they are a ‘good fit’ and to make things easier if they need to terminate the contract. The duration of a probation period varies across businesses and industries. However, generally they last somewhere between 3 months to a year.

A probation period allows the employee to assess whether an employee is right for the job. Employers can take their time to evaluate if the new employee is showing that same potential that you identified in them during the application process and/or at the time of the interview. If it turns out that the employee fails to meet expectations, they are deemed unsuitable for the role. And this trial period would then allow the employer to terminate their employment.

In the same way that the organization is testing out the employee, the individual can use this time to work out if the company is a good match for them. They can evaluate if the job is as it was described in the job description and can assess if they fit in with the company culture. They can also gauge the workload and responsibilities and determine if they get on with their co-workers and line manager.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

  1. What is Probationary period?

    A probation period is like the trial period wherein an employee and the employer can get familiar with one another and assess if they are a good fit for one another. This period allows an employee to understand their job description and if they would like to take up the job for the long haul. And, at the same time, it allows the employer to decide if the employee is fit to serve the org in the capacity they had decided to fill up.

  2. Why is Probationary period important?

    A probationary period is important because of multiple reasons like:

    • Gives the employee enough time to understand their job and if they are willing to go forward with it.
    • Keeps the employee from joining various contractual agreements that could hold liability.
    • Gives the employer time to understand whether the employee is the right fit for the position they have been offered.
    • Gives the employer and the employee enough time to understand if they would be the right cultural fit for the organization.
  3. What are the Rules & Regulations of Probationary period?

    1. If an employee decided to leave during their probationary period, they would still need to serve their notice period.
    2. If an employee is appointed on probation, it means that they have been appointed on a trial basis.
    3. A probation period can be for a predefined duration and for an unspecified period of time.
    4. Termination of service for an employee during probation does not count for a dismissal or removal from service.
    5. If they wish, employers may also extend the duration of the probation period.
  4. How long is the Probationary period?

    Generally, the duration of the probationary period for any organization is between 3 to 12 months.

  5. Do you get paid during Probationary period?

    Generally, an employee is paid during the probationary period.

  6. Can you get terminated during Probationary period?

    An employee can very well get terminated during the probationary period. If the employee turns out to be not the best fit for the job or the company, the employer has the power to terminate their employment. However, this kind of termination will not count as a firing or an act of dismissal.

  7. Can your Probationary period get extended?

    Yes, the employer holds the power to extend an employee’s probationary period.

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