yes, it's common...though I agree with the OP that in most places it's very..easy going. It's particularly useful in places which don't have at-will employment

yes, it's common...though I agree with the OP that in most places it's very..easy going. It's particularly useful in places which don't have at-will employment (read, most places) so that you can fire someone who really doesn't work out without having the burden that's normally associated with firing someone.