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How long is the probation period in Europe/UK and the Middle East for consulting firm generally?

How long is the probation period in Europe/UK and the Middle East for consulting firms generally? What's the difference between the probation period and the post-probation period?

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Top answer
Pedro
Coach
on Oct 04, 2021
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

There is not a specific rule, as in many countries this is related to local regulation. 

As a general rule, consider 6 months.

As a even more general rule, consider EVERY 6 months ;) 
A bad performance within an evaluation period can mean being counselled out before the typical up-or-out moment.

Deleted user
on Oct 03, 2021

Probation period 6 months typically but may vary across firms and geographies. Sometimes it can extended by 3 or 6 months if there are certain performance concerns.

Post probation simply means you have passed that “initial probation phase” and are now a confirmed full-time employee. Having said this, its advisable to be on your toes throughout as performance management is a rigorous process throughout the year.

12
Deleted user
on Oct 04, 2021

Hello,

Probation is typically around 6 months, but will depend on your office and how well you perform within that time. Post-probation just means that you have “passed” probation and can be confirmed as a regular employee.

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Agrim
Coach
on Oct 04, 2021
Top Awarded Coach | BCG Dubai Project Leader | Master Casing in only 3 Hours | 10y in Consulting | Free Intro Call

Typically probation period in most firms world-over is 3-6 months. In consulting, depending on the office - there may also NOT be any probation period.

However, I would agree with Pedro that in consulting - every 6 month period is a probation period. You drop the ball once, and the ripples can be felt even several years into your career.

Ian
Coach
on Oct 03, 2021
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

It honestly depends and varies! Typically probation periods last 3-6 months.

on Oct 06, 2021
McKinsey | NASA | top 10 FT MBA professor for consulting interviews | 6+ years of coaching

Hi!

I would say it is around 6 weeks with differences depending on the local office.

Best,

Anto

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