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Probation as an AP in civil service

  • 08-05-2025 01:10AM
    #1
    Shiksha
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12 ✭


    I’ve been given a date to start in a government department as an AP. I’m very happy to have the job as it will mean job security and a better salary.

    However, I’ve no prior experience in the area, which is quite niche/specialised. I’ve made enquires and, on paper, this job wouldn’t be the best match for my skill set. I’ve also been told that the PO who will manage my probation can be difficult.
    I’m willing to work, willing to learn do what needs to be done. But sometimes this isn’t enough and everyone, at least once in their career has a manager who cannot be pleased.
    In a nutshell - what steps should I take - apart from being willing to work hard - to avoid probation failure?

    Post edited by Shiksha on
    Tagged:


Comments

  • #2
    Aisling(",)
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,505 ✭✭✭Aisling(",)


    Firstly congratulations on the new job. Hopefully it will turn out to be the perfect fit for you.

    I wouldn't overthink the probation process, it is all formalised through an online system with 3,6 and 9 month meetings. If the PO has any issues with your performance they'll have to let you know formally and set out action points to give you a chance to improve. Any failure of probation won't come out of the blue.



  • #3
    suvigirl
    Site Banned Posts: 12,922 ✭✭✭✭suvigirl


    I would suggest starting off without pre judging the PO and make your own mind up about them. You're willing to work and learn, shouldn't be any reason for issues. Best of luck



  • #4
    manaboutlab
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5 ✭manaboutlab


    "I’ve been given a date to start in a government department as an AP. I’m very happy to have the job as it will mean job security and a better salary.

    However, I’ve no prior experience in the area, which is quite niche/specialised."

    How did you secure this job with no prior experience in the area/field of work?



  • #5
    KaneToad
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,794 ✭✭✭KaneToad


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123448980#Comment_123448980

    These positions are usually based on a series of online tests, in person presentations and competency based interviews. They are run by a central "agency" and the successful candidates then get appointed to govt depts as and when a vacancy arises. Next cab off the rank. Some positions will be more niche than others - but all candidates go through a recruitment process as generalists.



  • #6
    fritzelly
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2, Paid Member Posts: 18,313 ✭✭✭✭fritzelly


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123428286#Comment_123428286

    Exactly this - going in with a preconception about your boss is not a good start, some people don't click while others do. Come across it too many times where everyone says this and that about someone and found them totally fine to work with and actually encouraging (including my current boss)



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