First job after your studies: Do you know your rights?
You have many rights in your new job. Here you will get an introduction to the most important things you should know about probationary periods, overtime and union representatives.
The transition from student life to working life can be a big one, and there is a lot to get to grips with. Are you aware that you have many rights as an employee?
You must have been paid for overtime
You must have been paid for overtime in your first job. Only special independent positions and management positions have an exemption regarding overtime pay.
If you have entered into an agreement for a particularly independent position, you should log the hours you work beyond normal working hours. Over a long period of time, working weeks with many working hours can become tiring. Then you have something to show for it, if necessary.
What Should You Know About Probation?
The probationary period is usually six months. You are a permanent employee already during the probationary period and have protection against dismissal. In general, you have the same rights as otherwise.
The threshold for dismissal is somewhat lower during this period. In such cases, a dismissal must be justified by challenges related to professional competence, adaptation to the work or reliability.
When you start a new job, your employer must give you:
- adequate follow-up and training
- Good introduction to the company's culture and systems
Read more about probationary periods
What is a union representative?
A union representative is an employee who represents a trade union. This person is a kind of leader for the organization's members in the company. Union representatives will assist you if you need support.
The union representative will be able to help you with questions about, among other things, salary levels. Ask if there is a collective agreement that applies to your employment. He or she can also help you when negotiating salary.
Familiarize yourself with who is the union representative at your workplace, if there are any.
Your employer has chosen you
Your employer has interviewed you, seen your resume, and decided that you are a good fit for this job.
The fact that your employer has chosen to hire you shows that they have faith in you: be yourself, show curiosity about the job, ask questions and use your knowledge to the best of your ability.
Good luck!
Almost done with your studies? Your NITO membership continues!
If you have your final exam in the spring, you get the next six months completely free. As a former student member, you also have large discounts on the membership fee for the first three years as a working member.