Probationary Periods: Are They Legal in Canada?

According to the monster.ca website, YES, probationary periods are legal. However, a formalized signed contract must indicate a time line and specifications regarding the extent of the period. Employers can legally fire, and without 'cause', an employee if they fail to meet expectations while under that period of probation.

According to the monster.ca website, "In the absence of language asserting that the employer will rely on the probationary term, the courts treat the terminated employee like any other. An employee, who does not meet performance standards and is terminated without cause, is then entitled to severance determined by a court." That being siad, it is always recommended that you, as a small business owner/entrepreneur, write a formal, yet simple, employee contract stating the details and outcome of a probation period.

For more details on this subject, read this great article on the Monster website: Are Probationary Periods Legal in Canada?

Joys of small business

It’s hard for me to say that I can’t be biased regarding small business, because I work for and with small businesses everyday. But I truly see the hard work, devotion, and love that gets poured into many of the entrepreneurs I meet. Take today for example, I bought a homemade sandwich and coffee from a local sandwich place. The owner is always smiling and greets everyone that walks in the door. I, without hesitation, paid $2 for a $1.45 coffee and told them to keep the change. I NEVER do this for franchised businesses. Really, what’s the extra $0.55 to me anyway?

My point is, give a little extra to local places. Not only do they deserve it, they more than likely need it.