probationary period

Definition

An initial employment phase, typically 30-90 days, during which both employer and employee evaluate fit with reduced job security. Corporate dating before commitment, except you're already living together.

Example Usage

I'm still in my 90-day probationary period, so I'm on my best behavior and pretending to enjoy the mandatory team-building exercises.

Origin

Adapted from legal and educational contexts into employment in the early-to-mid 20th century

Fun Fact

Despite seeming ominous, probationary periods in at-will employment states are largely symbolic—you can be fired just as easily on day 91 as on day 89.

Source: Standard employment practices and onboarding procedures

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