If you take on a permanent role at a company, it is highly likely that you will be asked to complete a probationary period before you are taken on permanently. The main aim of the probationary period is to check that you are right for the job and that you and the company are a good fit together.
If you get through the probation period, you will often find that you are granted a raise at the end of it. Also, it is at the successful completion of this period that you are accepted as a ‘regular’ employee. These factors make it imperative that you perform well in during this time.
So how can you make sure you get through this period?
Adapt To New Situations
It might sound like only common sense but the best thing you can do is try your best to be good at the job. Show up on time, make sure you go to all of the meetings you are expected to attend, make an effort to form good relationships with your colleagues and show that you are willing to learn.
Your employer is unlikely to expect you to be perfect at your job straight away, but they will be looking at your ability to adapt to new situations.
Be Communicative
If you are having any difficulties with new aspects of your work, make sure you tell your supervisor. This way, you can get things sorted as quickly as possible and move on rather than continuing to struggle and possibly affecting your performance review at the end of your probation. Your boss would much rather you asked them if you have problems rather than keeping it to yourself; it helps to show you value their opinion and that you are open to new ideas.
Accept Challenges
Another good tactic for getting through your probationary period is to volunteer for any important projects that may come up. As you are new, you might not be selected but it’s good to show that you are willing to get involved with different aspects of the job and that you aren’t afraid of a challenge.
However, remember mom’s advice and ‘bite only as much as you can chew’.
Listen To Your Mentor
If you are offered a mentor for your probation period, take advantage of this. They can provide a great insight into how the company works, what it does and how you fit in. They can also provide you with assistance if you get stuck or have any problems, so make sure you utilise their wisdom.
Be Enthusiastic and Shine
Above all, be enthusiastic – and professional. You have been hired because the employer thought you were the best person for the job. The aim of the probation period is for you to prove that. Think of it as your chance to shine and you should get through it just fine.
This post is contributed by Total Jobs, a leading job site that currently offers a variety of job vacancies from jobs in IT to jobs in security.
Author Byline: Adam C is a London, UK based copywriter and has given sound workplace advice in this article.
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