Pass Your Probation Period! 6 Effective Tips to Nail Your Job Confirmation

Landing a new job is an exciting but intimidating time in one’s career journey. The first few months are a critical phase, where you will be evaluated and challenged to become a permanent or regular member of the company. So, how do you pass the probation period with flying colours?

Probation period at work

When you start your new role, your employer gives you a probation period. During this course, they assess your capabilities to transition into permanent full-time employment. Your new role needs to live up to your expectations, too. Take it as a trial period for both you and your employer to decide whether the job's right for you.

Importance of probation period in your career

Your probation period at work is crucial; it is a valuable time for you to learn the ropes of your latest role as well as adapt to your current work environment. For employers, this period is also an essential part of the recruitment process as it helps them confirm that you are fit for the role.

Standard probation period in Malaysia

Malaysian laws do not define the grounds for probationers. So, your employer usually decides the length of the probationary period in the employment agreement. Nationwide, three to six months is the standard probationary period for most industries. 

In special cases, the probation period may be shorter, especially if you have enough experience and skills for the role. It means you have adapted well to your employer's current workflow and show potential to be a valuable member of the company.

Other cases will require longer or extended probation periods, with a maximum of up to 12 months, for employers to further evaluate your transition. A longer probation period simply means that you haven't checked all the boxes yet, but you have the potential to succeed in the role. 

During your probation period, you will be evaluated according to your efficiency, competence, and aptitude. If you do not meet your employer’s criteria, they have the right to terminate your employment.  

Being on probation can be nerve-racking: all eyes are on you, observing your every move. As the new kid on the block, it's up to you to prove your worth. But fret no more. Here are a few tips on how to pass your probation and start your career journey.

(Read more: 5 Most Important Things To Know About Malaysian Employment Laws)

Dos and don’ts during your probation period

Do: Be professional

This might sound obvious, but reliability is a critical quality that employers look for in employees. Showing up for work on time, being punctual at meetings, and delivering quality work at agreed deadlines — these consistent habits tell your employer that they can rely on you to get the job done.

Don't: Slack off

Your probation period is your opportunity to showcase your efficiency. Since your workload may be lighter than that of your workmates, this is the perfect time to be proactive. Ask your boss if you can help with any other tasks. Demonstrate that you're keen to support the team's overall success and are not just interested in your own goals.

Do: Ask questions

It's natural to feel overwhelmed during the initial stages of starting your first job, or any new job for that matter. Everything feels foreign, and you probably have a million questions about what you're supposed to do and how you should do it. You might feel awkward asking for help, but you don't need to be! Every single person working in that company started where you are right now.

Don't: Stay silent

Make yourself shine and ask the right questions. This shows initiative and enthusiasm for the job: qualities of a promising self-starter. Staying invisible and going with the flow will not help you advance your newly started career.

Do: Showcase your skills

Contrary to conventional belief, just because you're a newbie doesn't mean you should keep your head down and do exactly as you're told. While respecting the working culture and management direction is important, it pays to contribute different perspectives that might benefit your team's productivity. 

Don't: Stick to the status quo

If you spot inefficiencies in the workflow and have ideas for plugging these gaps, don't keep them to yourself. Share them with your peers and bosses. At least your superiors will see that you have original ideas to contribute. It also shows competence when you offer well-thought-out suggestions. The worst thing that can happen is that they reject your suggestions.

Do: Listen to feedback

Take all the feedback you can get to keep yourself on track and increase your chances of success. Show that you can handle constructive criticism and are committed to making changes where needed. Being open to suggestions reveals that you want to do your best to succeed in the role.

Don't: Get involved in office drama or office politics

Getting involved in office drama or politics early on in your new job can be emotionally upsetting. Remember to always stay calm and collected. Maintaining an objective and neutral outlook proves to your bosses that you are a professional who can handle awkward situations with poise.

Do: Socialise with your co-workers

Get to know your teammates. Bonding with your colleagues and superiors is essential for newbies. Having good chemistry with the people you work with improves your job satisfaction and helps you score bonus points during your probation review. It might seem small, but your ability to get along well with your peers and bosses is just as important as your job performance. As Funding Circle CEO Samir Desai said, "It's better to have a hole in your team than an asshole in your team!"

Don't: Isolate yourself

Interaction with your co-workers increases knowledge of your role and the company you are working to be a part of. It creates a positive environment where you can work more efficiently. It also positions you as a good team player and a good communicator. 

Do: Have a positive attitude

Having a positive attitude improves your job performance. It highlights your work ethic and shows your culture fit with your new environment. The first few months in the role can be stressful, but remain optimistic and keep a positive mindset.

Don't: Lose track of your goals

It's easy to get overwhelmed when you are starting a new job. You will be fed a lot of information daily. Understanding your career goals and aligning them with your new role is essential. Don't be afraid to consult your manager if you feel that you are getting distracted by your new tasks.

What happens if you don't pass your probation at work?

If you are oblivious to why you did not pass the probation period, you may ask your manager and confirm the points you failed to satisfy. Probationers have more or less the same rights as a confirmed or permanent employee, so your employer must have a valid reason for dismissing you.

Nevertheless, it is always best to respond to job rejections with dignity. Try not to get discouraged. Don't let the experience dampen your spirit. Rejection is always disheartening, but try your best to see this as an opportunity to explore what you really want and — most importantly — what you don't. Sometimes you can work as hard as possible, but the job simply isn't a good fit.

Failing to pass your probation period is not the end of your career journey or a setback. You can learn from the experience and come out stronger on the next. Dust yourself off and get back out there.

#LetsGetToWork and update your JobStreet profile to get the latest insights on your chosen field. Don't forget to visit the Career Resources Hub for more career journey tips and expert advice.