10 Common Mistakes New Hires Make During Probation And How to Avoid Them
Maryna Khomich
Founder @ Recrucial | Expert Recruitment Strategist | Growth Expert for start-ups I Organizational Consultant
The probation period is a crucial stage in adjusting to a new job. During this time, your employer is evaluating not only your professional skills but also how well you fit into the team, communicate, and adapt to the company’s culture. It’s your opportunity to show what you can bring to the table and make a strong first impression.
To navigate this period successfully, it’s important to steer clear of common missteps that could undermine your efforts. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the most typical mistakes newcomers make and offer practical tips to help you avoid them.
The Three Phases of the Probation Period
The probation period can typically be broken down into three stages:
Mistakes to Watch Out for During the Probation Period and How to Avoid Them
1. Not Preparing Enough Before Starting
What can go wrong: Many people start a new job without doing some homework, missing out on an opportunity to learn more about the company’s expectations and the tools they’ll be using.
Example: Anna started a new job as a marketing specialist but took a break before her first day without taking the time to clarify her role and responsibilities. When she began, she felt overwhelmed by unfamiliar tools and tasks, which made her feel unprepared and less confident.
How to avoid it: Once you’ve accepted an offer, get in touch with your future manager to discuss the initial tasks, tools, and any processes you can familiarize yourself with beforehand. If you have time, brush up on relevant skills or read up on industry trends.
It’s okay to ask questions early on—it shows you’re eager to succeed!
Takeaway: Being proactive and doing some prep work will make your first days smoother and help you hit the ground running.
2. Not Setting Clear Goals or Ignoring Feedback
What can go wrong: Some employees don’t define clear goals for their probation period and may overlook feedback from their manager or colleagues.
Example: Ivan, a new software developer, didn’t clarify what was expected of him and focused on tasks he thought were important based on his past experience. Unfortunately, his efforts didn’t align with the team’s priorities, and by the end of his probation, he hadn’t met the key expectations.
How to avoid it: Right from the start, have a conversation with your manager to understand what success looks like during your probation period. If there’s no structured plan, be proactive and ask for one.
Regularly check in for feedback to ensure you’re on track and make adjustments as needed.
Takeaway: Clear goals and ongoing communication can help ensure your efforts are aligned with what the company needs from you.
3. Taking It Too Slow or Being Overly Relaxed
What can go wrong: Some newcomers believe the probation period is just for settling in and easing into the workload.
Example: Svetlana, a newly hired accountant, kept a leisurely pace even though her manager warned her to speed up. She missed deadlines and didn’t communicate about delays, which made her colleagues question her ability to keep up.
How to avoid it: Remember that the probation period is your chance to show how quickly and effectively you can contribute. Make sure to complete tasks on time and, if you need more time, inform your manager as early as possible.
Being open and transparent shows you respect the team’s time and are committed to your work.
Takeaway: A sense of urgency and strong work ethic will go a long way in creating a positive impression.
4. Being Late or Not Following Basic Rules
What can go wrong: Regular tardiness or taking unexpected leave can harm your reputation, even if it seems minor.
Example: Max was often 15–20 minutes late, thinking it wasn’t a big deal. However, his manager and colleagues noticed, and it left a negative impression.
How to avoid it: Show up on time and respect the office schedule. If you’re running late or need to take time off, communicate as early as possible.
Being reliable is a key part of building trust in any team.
Takeaway: Punctuality and dependability show that you’re serious and professional.
5. Sticking to Old Ways and Ignoring New Approaches
What can go wrong: Trying to replicate processes from your previous job without considering the new environment can create friction.
Example: Elena, after joining a new company, was determined to implement methods from her past job without fully understanding the new team’s needs. This led to tension and resistance from her colleagues.
How to avoid it: Be curious and open to learning how things are done at your new company before suggesting changes. Take time to understand the current processes, then frame your suggestions as ways to enhance, not replace, what’s already working.
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Takeaway: Flexibility and a willingness to adapt will help you integrate smoothly.
6. Not Taking Notes or Organizing Information
What can go wrong: Failing to document what you’re learning can lead to confusion and repeated mistakes.
Example: Sergey didn’t keep track of new processes and constantly had to ask his colleagues for the same information. This made him appear inattentive and disorganized.
How to avoid it: Keep a notebook or digital file with important information, contacts, and guidelines. Review it regularly and update as you go.
Having everything in one place will make you feel more in control and help you ramp up faster.
Takeaway: Being organized will make your learning process smoother and demonstrate your attention to detail.
7. Not Connecting with Colleagues
What can go wrong: Avoiding interactions with your team can create the impression that you’re not interested in building relationships.
Example: Dmitry would arrive at work, do his tasks, and leave without engaging with anyone. This made him seem distant and unapproachable, affecting his integration into the team.
How to avoid it: Make an effort to say hello, ask questions, and participate in team activities.
Even small gestures like joining colleagues for coffee or offering to help on a project can go a long way in building rapport.
Takeaway: Being approachable and engaged will help you establish yourself as a positive and valued team member.
8. Not Communicating Your Achievements
What can go wrong: If you don’t keep your manager informed about your progress, your contributions may go unnoticed, and you miss out on valuable feedback.
Example: Olga successfully completed a project but didn’t inform her manager in time. As a result, her work went unrecognized, and she missed an opportunity to get valuable feedback and acknowledgment.
How to avoid it: Regularly update your manager on the status of your tasks and share the outcomes of completed projects.
Keeping your achievements visible can help you get constructive advice and stay motivated.
Takeaway: Open communication about your work helps build your professional reputation and ensures your efforts are acknowledged.
9. Asking Too Many Small Questions
What can go wrong: Constantly interrupting your manager with minor questions can come off as a lack of independence.
Example: Alexei asked his manager about every small detail, disrupting their workflow and creating tension. This led to frustration and slower progress on tasks.
How to avoid it: Gather your questions into a list and review them at a designated time with your manager.
This shows that you respect their time and are capable of solving issues independently whenever possible.
Takeaway: Being self-sufficient and organized demonstrates competence and helps maintain a productive work environment.
10. Lack of Initiative and Passivity
What can go wrong: If you only do what’s assigned without proposing any improvements, you may come across as indifferent to the company’s success.
Example: Natalia completed her tasks diligently but never offered suggestions or new ideas. Her manager perceived her as lacking creativity and interest in contributing beyond her basic responsibilities.
How to avoid it: Share your experiences and propose ways to enhance processes where appropriate. A fresh perspective can often provide valuable insights.
Before making suggestions, ensure you understand the current workflows so your ideas are relevant and practical.
Takeaway: Showing initiative and being engaged in the company’s development will increase your value as an employee.
Final Thoughts
The probation period is your chance to show your professional skills and your ability to adapt, learn, and contribute to the team’s success. By avoiding the mistakes above, staying proactive, and keeping an open mind, you can make the most of this opportunity and build a strong foundation for a successful career in your new company.
Remember: proactivity, communication, and a positive attitude are always appreciated. Your success depends on how well you can integrate into the team and bring your best self to work every day!