WHAT TO SAY · PERFORMANCE
How to tell an employee their probation is being extended
An extension should never be a surprise. Explain what has not yet been shown, what success looks like by the new date, and how you will help.
Before you start
- Check your contract and HR process for extending probation.
- Write down two or three measurable goals.
The script
- OPEN WITH
[Name], we are at the end of your probation period, and I want to talk about where things are.
You have done well at [strength]. There are a couple of areas I need to see more of before I can confirm your role.
I am extending your probation by [x weeks], to [date].
By then, I need to see [goal 1] and [goal 2]. We will meet every [week] to check progress.
I want this to work, and I will support you. What would help most?
Replace the [brackets] with real details. Say it in your own words; the structure matters more than the exact wording.
If they say…
“Am I going to lose my job?”
Not if we reach these goals, and I think you can. I will be honest with you about progress every week.
What to avoid
- Vague goals.
- Raising concerns for the first time at the end of probation.
Related
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- How to tell an employee about a mistake that affected a customer
- How to talk to an employee about frequent sick days
- How to tell an employee to stop working late and overworking
- How to tell an employee they are going on a performance improvement plan
- All 24 scripts