Headcount, hiring & workforce planning · Core

Probation period

Also called: probationary period

ELI5

An initial employment period with specified review or termination rules, varying by law.

Used in conversation

“The people plan needs to explain how probation period affects roles and decisions.”

Pitch context

You will see “Probation period” in organisation plans, workforce reviews, change programmes and people reports when the discussion reaches headcount, hiring & workforce planning.

Why it matters: In headcount, hiring & workforce planning, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.

Caution

Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.

Sources & evidence · 2

Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.