What is the purpose of the initial probationary period for an employee?

The initial probationary period for an employee serves primarily as a time for evaluating the employee's work performance. During this period, supervisors assess how well new employees adapt to their roles, including their ability to meet job expectations, adhere to workplace standards, and effectively contribute to the team. This evaluation includes observing the employee's skills, work ethic, punctuality, and interactions with colleagues and supervisors.

While other aspects, such as training in job duties, can occur during this period, the primary focus is on performance assessment. Employers want to ensure that the employee is a good fit for the organization and that their contributions align with established goals. Successful completion of this evaluation can lead to confirmation of employment, while a lack of satisfactory performance may result in termination before the probation period concludes.