How to Pass Your Probation Period – Tips for Employees and Employers

Starting a new finance or accountancy role often comes with a probation or trial period—typically lasting between three and six months. This critical phase allows employers to assess if a new hire is the right fit for the team, and gives new employees the opportunity to decide if the company aligns with their career aspirations.

At Sharp Consultancy, we support clients and candidates across Yorkshire and the North of England to ensure every placement is a successful, long-term match. Whether you're an ambitious Part-Qualified Accountant, an experienced Finance Director, or hiring for your finance team, here are our expert tips to make the most of the probation period.

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Tips for New Employees: Make a Great First Impression

1. Nail the Basics

No matter how experienced you are, the early days in a new role can feel overwhelming. New systems, processes, and people all take time to adjust to.

Set yourself up for success by:

• Arriving on time and dressing professionally

• Being friendly, enthusiastic, and approachable

• Asking questions when in doubt

• Showing a willingness to learn and adapt

First impressions count—so keep them positive.

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2. Pace Yourself and Learn the Ropes

While it's natural to want to hit the ground running, your new employer doesn’t expect you to know everything on day one.

Use your probation period to:

• Ask smart questions

• Read up on company background and previous projects

• Observe how different departments operate

• Absorb the company’s culture and processes

This approach is especially useful in complex finance functions, such as management accounting, financial planning, or audit roles.

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3. Lend a Hand Where You Can

If your workload is still building up, offer support to colleagues on ongoing tasks and projects. It’s a great way to:

• Demonstrate you’re a team player

• Gain practical insights into company operations

• Build rapport with new colleagues

Your communication and collaboration skills will shine—and these are especially valued in finance teams of all sizes.

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4. Avoid Office Politics

Stay professional and steer clear of gossip or comparing your new workplace to your previous one. Don’t:

• Badmouth former employers

• Criticise your predecessor

• Push for major changes before understanding existing systems

Maintain neutrality and show respect for the existing team dynamics.

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5. Leave on Good Terms, Start on Better Ones

Even if you left your last job under difficult circumstances, avoid speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues. The finance and accountancy sector—especially across Yorkshire and the North—is a close-knit community, and word travels fast.

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Tips for Employers: Help New Starters Succeed

Hiring the right person is only the beginning. Supporting their success during probation can significantly increase retention and long-term productivity.

1. Set Clear Objectives and Expectations

Ensure each new hire receives:

• A detailed job description

• A list of key responsibilities

• Clear and achievable goals for their first few months

This is especially crucial for roles such as Financial Controller, Finance Business Partner, or any senior finance position where expectations may be high from day one.

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2. Give Time to Settle In

Even if you need an immediate impact, give new employees time to:

• Understand the company structure

• Settle into their role

• Learn internal systems and workflows

Offer relevant background materials and introductions to key contacts early on.

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3. Be Approachable and Supportive

Book in regular one-to-one catch-ups to:

• Answer questions

• Offer feedback

• Provide reassurance

Make yourself accessible and show that you're invested in their success. A consistent check-in during probation is one of the most effective retention tools for finance professionals.

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4. Avoid Criticising Former Employees

Even if you're hoping the new hire will bring a fresh perspective, avoid speaking poorly about their predecessor. Focus instead on the goals ahead and how the new recruit can bring value.

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5. Assign a Project or Ownership Early On

Allow new team members to take on a small but meaningful project. This helps:

• Boost confidence

• Showcase their strengths

• Prove their value to the wider team

It also reinforces why they were the right hire in the first place.

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Sharp Consultancy: Your Partner for Successful Recruitment

At Sharp Consultancy, we specialise in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance professionals across Sheffield, Leeds, and the wider Yorkshire region. Our experienced consultants ensure both clients and candidates are fully prepared for long-term success—right from day one.

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Looking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAYand let's chart your career path together.