The probationary period
Probation is close supervision, monitoring and assessment of an employee’s work performance during the initial period of employment. The probationary period provides the first real opportunity to assess a new employee’s demonstrated suitability for the job they were selected for, and for their ongoing employment. Under WorkChoices, the probationary period is a maximum of three months or more than that if it is reasonable given the nature and circumstances of the employment. State and territory industrial laws may also have maximum probationary periods.
A probationary period enables a manager/supervisor and a new employee to identify relevant strengths and weaknesses in conduct and work performance and to take any necessary remedial action. It also allows the employer to assess how well the new employee is fitting into the role and the farm and gives them time to review and adapt training for the new employee.
By monitoring the employee’s performance during the probationary period the employer ensures the employee is learning the tasks associated with the job correctly, is not picking up any bad habits, and is meeting expectations. If there are major problems, it is easier to terminate employment if there is a probationary period than if there is not one.
For the probationary process to work properly, you, as an employer, will need to allow adequate time for yourself or a supervisor/manager to closely supervise the new employee during their probationary period. Also allow time for feedback and discussion on how the employee is doing. The employee should also be fully aware of the expectations against which performance will be measured (both job-specific and more generally) before they take up the employment. This should be outlined in their position description and employment contract. A review should be held at the end of the probation period.
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Honest and frank discussion
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In the best reviews there is an honest discussion about how things are going from the perspective of both parties. A good employer is always a good listener and someone who takes time to encourage employees. |
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Encourage input from your new employee
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A new employee may suggest changes in the way things are done in your business because they bring a fresh view and experiences. If an employee suggests a change give some thought to how it might work. If it’s a good idea, implement it. If it’s not in the scope of your operation explain why to the employee. |
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Here are two checklists to help guide you in conducting your probationary reviews:
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IN2Dairy is a guide for young people starting a career in dairy farming. It may be a useful to provide this to new employees.
[LC: LINK TO IN2DAIRY, PDF TO BE SUPPLIED]
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