How to Pass Your Federal Employee Probationary Period

Make a Lasting Impression

You were offered the position because of the impression you made during the interview process. Now it’s time to show the hiring committee that they made the right decision. Think of this period as an extended interview, where you maintain the same professional attitude, drive, and positivity.

Your employer expects you to exhibit competence and dedication in your new role. Putting in ample effort and volunteering to take on additional responsibilities will go a long way in demonstrating your enthusiasm. Uphold professionalism in how you dress and how you work with your team members.

Build Positive Working Relationships

Get to know your coworkers and focus on building positive relationships. Your boss will be the one to decide whether you remain after the probationary period, so you want to please him/her, but it’s also imperative that your colleagues feel you are a good fit for the workplace culture. Successful leaders understand that team cohesion has a significant impact on creativity, productivity, and job satisfaction. This tells you that they won’t tolerate employees who are disruptive to the team’s balance.

Understand Expectations

As a federal employee, it is your responsibility to perform to your agency’s expectations. Be clear when learning about procedures and timelines. If your questions are not fully answered, ask for more help. Mixed messages could put you on the wrong track, and with that in mind, it’s essential that you understand how the employer or supervisor communicates. Determine the directions set for your position, and don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions.

Get Feedback on Progress

Regular conversations with your manager about your progress and how you are meeting various objectives are imperative when trying to get through the probationary period. You should have a set of goals or expectations set in your job description, which will help keep you on target. But if not, seek clarifications early on in your time there.

Plan Ahead

Although you may be focused on jumpstarting a new federal career, it’s important to evaluate the benefits available to you as a Civilian Federal Employee. When you’re ready to purchase life insurance, consider Group Term Life Insurance* coverage from WAEPA as an alternative or supplement to the Federally-offered program, FEGLI. With over 75 years of experience serving Civilian Federal Employees, WAEPA provides competitively priced life insurance programs and a variety of benefits with membership.