“Try” Before You Hire: Pre-Employment Work Trials

Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right

Whether referred to as work trials, practical evaluations, or interviews, a pre-employment work trial serves as a valuable resource for employers and HR professionals. It allows a comprehensive assessment of an individual's skills before extending a job offer, recognising that a brief interview might not always suffice.

Join Sanam in this episode as she navigates the complexities of work trials—a tool both advantageous and potentially dangerous in the landscape of employment. Sanam not only examines the effective utilisation of work trials but also delves into the legal ramifications associated with their misapplication.

In this episode, we'll cover:

1. Defining the essence of work trials
2. Strategically implementing work trials – understanding when and how
3. In-depth analysis of notable cases: The Salad Bowl Limited v Howe-Thornley (2013) and Mawhinney v Sfizio Ltd (2019)
4. Unveiling the legal position and extracting key lessons from these pivotal cases
5. Exploring the risks and consequences when work trials take an unfortunate turn
6. Proactive guidance on how to appropriately and securely harness the potential of work trials

Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to make sound decisions in your employment practices. Whether you're an employer, HR professional, or someone curious about the intricacies of hiring processes, this episode promises valuable insights.

Don't miss out on these valuable insights! Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz!

Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest legal insights and more!

Got questions? Send them in, and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to [e-mail]

Resources

• Beware of pre-employment work trials
• Pre-employment work trials – working for a day without pay?
• Never conduct an employee work trial

Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.