My HR Knowledge Bank
Welcome to My HR Knowledge Bank. You will find frequently asked questions on all current HR Policies and procedures, links to all policies, useful forms, guidelines and toolkits.
INDUCTION AND PROBATION |
|---|
How much notice must be given when terminating an employee in their probationary period?
In the event that the Council decides to terminate the employee's employment due to issues relating to their probation, the individual may be terminated by giving one week's notice.
How often should review meetings be held with an employee during their probationary period?
The process should start when they begin their induction on appointment. Reviews should then take place periodically (ideally every 2 weeks) during their probationary period and again at the end.
If a manager does not have time to deliver the local induction, can Human Resources do it instead?
No, the local induction should be delivered at the new employee's place of work. However, a person in the new employees' immediate team can be nominated to work through the Induction Checklist with the new employee. The manager should ensure this nominated person understands what is expected of them.
Should the probationary period be extended when an employee who is not performing to the required standard is coming to the end of their probationary period?
In certain circumstances, some employees may benefit from an extension to their probationary period, e.g. where the employee's performance during probation has not been entirely satisfactory, but where it is thought likely that an extension to the probationary period may lead to an improvement.
Confirmation of any extension must be given in writing, including full reasons and explanations.
What happens if an employee has not met the required standards by the end of their review period?
The matter should be discussed with the Head of Service and Human Resources Adviser before any decision is made with regard to continued employment.
What happens if an employee is not performing to the required standard during the probationary period?
The manager should continuously monitor and review performance during the probationary period, and not wait until the end to address any problems. Records should be kept of meetings held and employees should be informed immediately of any concerns with their performance.
These should be addressed as quickly as possible through the provision of advice on how they can overcome their difficulties and setting time constraints in which they have to improve.
What happens when an employee has successfully completed the probationary period?
They will be given a copy of the final review; the original document will be retained on their personal file. Human Resources will issue a letter confirming the probationary period has been successfully completed.
What is a local induction?
A local induction takes place at the new employees' place of work, and starts on the first day. It will cover issues such as health and safety, facilities at the workplace and introduction to colleagues. A Local Induction Checklist should be completed.
What is a probationary period?
A probation period provides a framework for assessing a new employee's capabilities, reliability and suitability in the long term for appointment.
It is a set period of time during which an employee can expect more intensive guidance and encouragement, and appropriate early training that is often not required by more experienced employees.
What is the Corporate Welcome?
This is an introduction to the Council as a whole to give employees a better understanding of how the Council works.