Managing Probation Periods & Employee Performance - A Roundup for HR Advisers

Introduction

Ensuring probation periods are properly managed has always been a key part of the employment lifecycle. A failure to assess a new recruit during their probation can create difficulties in the future, particularly if they are not a correct fit for an organisation but have acquired the right to claim unfair dismissal.

The Employment Rights Act will reduce the qualifying period of employment to bring an unfair dismissal claim from two years to six months, which means that employees who have six months’ qualifying service on the 1st January 2027 will have the right to bring an unfair dismissal claim. Effectively managing probation periods will therefore be essential for line managers, with regular touch points from the commencement of employment and at regular intervals during this period being vital to identify and address any performance issues.

This webinar will provide practical guidance on how to effectively manage an individual who is poorly performing. It will also provide tips and considerations on how to investigate and manage poor performance, which may ultimately result in an exit from an organisation.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• What does an effective probation period look like?
• What process should be followed if an individual is not performing during their probation period?
• Performance red flags
• Conduct v capability
• Practical tips and considerations when investigating and managing poor performance
• Legal issues to consider when managing poor performance

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Friday 15th May 2026

Alternatively, you can gain access to this webinar and 2,300+ others via the MBL Webinar Subscription. Please email webinarsubscription@mblseminars.com for more details.