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What Probation Period Checklist does
Probation is the trickiest phase of a new job. In the first six months shortened notice periods apply, full dismissal protection does not yet kick in, and at the same time you have to settle in technically, integrate into the team and leave a good impression. Anyone who tackles this phase in a structured way has considerably less stress - and the probation checklist delivers exactly that structure.
The tasks are organised into phases that follow the course of probation: the first week, the first month with the induction, the third month with goal setting and feedback, and the final push in months five and six. That way you do not work through items at random but always the ones that are currently due. A progress overview shows you where you stand.
Right at the start it is about the legal framework that many are not aware of. During probation the notice period is only two weeks, and to any day at all - for both sides and without justification. The checklist reminds you to read up on your notice period and the exact duration of the probation (maximum six months, § 622 BGB) in the contract so you know what you have got into.
Vacation holds a pitfall too. You only acquire the full statutory vacation entitlement after six months of employment, before that there is only proportional vacation. Anyone unaware of this plans wrong or is disappointed when the request is refused. The checklist points out this rule and makes it a fixed item in your first week.
The most important substantive point is feedback. Do not wait until the end of probation to learn where you stand - actively request interim feedback, clarify expectations and document your successes. The checklist makes the feedback talk in month three a fixed milestone so you do not walk into the extension decision unprepared. An additional knowledge section explains dismissal protection and probation rules in plain language.
The checklist runs in your browser and stores your progress locally. You can add your own items, because every job has its quirks. It is not a legal document but a practical companion through the first months - the common thread that ensures you do not just survive probation but shape it with confidence.
Features
Phases across six months
First week, first month, third month and final push - tasks that follow the real course of probation.
Notice period in view
Reminds you of the shortened period of two weeks to any day and the maximum probation duration under § 622 BGB.
Vacation entitlement clarified
Points out that the full vacation entitlement only arises after six months and counts only proportionally before that.
Feedback as a milestone
Makes the interim feedback in month three a fixed item so you do not walk into the decision unprepared.
Knowledge section on probation rules
Explains dismissal protection, probation termination and the employer's limits in understandable plain language.
Add your own items
Every job is different - add custom tasks that matter in your role.
Progress stored locally
Your status stays in your browser. No signup, no data transfer, no account needed.
How it works
- 1
Start in the first week
Work through the first-week items: check notice period and probation duration in the contract, clarify vacation entitlement.
- 2
Move through the phases
Tick your way phase by phase through the induction until month three with goal setting and feedback is reached.
- 3
Actively request feedback
Use the feedback milestone to clarify expectations and document your successes.
- 4
Plan the final push
In months five and six you prepare for the decision on being kept on and take stock.
Who needs this
Frequently asked questions
How long does probation last?
Probation may last at most six months (§ 622 para. 3 BGB). Within this time the shortened notice period of two weeks applies. The exact duration is in your employment contract - some companies also agree shorter probation periods.
Which notice period applies during probation?
During probation the period is two weeks, and the termination can take effect on any day, not just the 15th or end of month. This applies to both sides and without stating a reason. For the exact calculation use our notice period calculator.
Do I have dismissal protection during probation?
General dismissal protection under the Employment Protection Act only applies after six months of employment and only in companies with more than ten employees. Before that the employer needs no reason for termination. However, the prohibition of victimisation and discrimination protection under the AGG always apply.
When do I get full vacation entitlement?
You only acquire the full statutory vacation entitlement after six months of uninterrupted employment (waiting period). In the first six months you have only a proportional entitlement of one twelfth per full month of employment. The checklist points this out to you early.
What should I definitely do during probation?
Clarify the formal points like notice period and vacation early, integrate into the team, actively request interim feedback and document your successes. That way you walk confidently into the decision on being kept on. The checklist guides you through all these steps.
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