Probation Periods: Set Expectations, Avoid Problems

Hiring your first employee is exciting, but probation periods are where the real groundwork for success happens. At Home of HR, we help UK small businesses set clear expectations, provide structured feedback, and document performance effectively - so your new hires thrive and your business stays compliant.

Why Probation Periods Matter for Small Businesses

Did you know that 1 in 5 new hires fail their probation period? Often, it’s not because the employee is a poor fit, but because expectations weren’t clearly communicated from the start.

A well-structured probation period:

  • Gives employees clarity on their role and responsibilities

  • Helps managers monitor performance and provide constructive feedback

  • Protects your business legally if you need to terminate employment

Structuring a Probation Period

Here’s how to set up a clear and fair probation period:

  1. Define the Length

    • Typically 3-6 months for small businesses (although note this will be changing in 2027 with proposed government statutory probationary periods)

    • Consider role complexity and business size

  2. Set Clear Goals and KPIs

    • Outline what success looks like in the role

    • Include measurable targets and behavioural expectations

  3. Schedule Regular Check-Ins

    • Weekly or monthly review meetings

    • Discuss progress, challenges, and provide support

  4. Document Everything

    • Keep notes of all meetings, feedback, and agreements

    • Documentation is essential if probation doesn’t work out

Giving Feedback During Probation

Feedback should be:

  • Specific: Focus on behaviour or outcomes, not personality

  • Timely: Address issues as they arise, don’t wait until the end

  • Supportive: Offer guidance and resources to help employees improve

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Many small businesses make these probation errors:

  • Vague expectations - employees don’t know what’s expected

  • Skipping feedback - no opportunity to correct performance issues

  • Poor documentation - leaves the business exposed to legal risk

At Home of HR, we provide templates and guidance to make your probation periods structured, fair, and compliant.

Probation periods are your opportunity to set up new hires for success, and protect your business. By setting clear expectations, giving structured feedback, and documenting reviews, you reduce risk and improve retention.

Tip from Home of HR: Implementing a strong probation process isn’t just legal protection - it’s a roadmap for high-performing teams.

Ready to get your probation periods right? Home of HR’s First Employee Pack includes:

  • Probation templates

  • Feedback forms

  • Performance review checklists

Contact us today to get started!

Alice Hosker