Final answer:
Employees should be made aware of pay periods and benefits during the orientation period of the hiring process, which provides key workplace information before they begin their job duties.
Step-by-step explanation:
An employee should receive an explanation of pay periods and benefits during the orientation period of the hiring process. This orientation typically follows the initial job offer and before the employee starts performing their job responsibilities. It's the stage where the employer provides detailed information about the job's pay schedule, the process for submitting timesheets, and various employment benefits. It ensures that employees are fully informed about necessary workplace practices and what is expected from them regarding attendance, overtime, vacation, and other forms of time off. During this period, employees are made aware of working conditions, safety requirements, and all other workplace rules and policies. In some instances, employers may use the orientation period to explain that the first few months may be a trial or probationary period, where terms of employment might be different from the subsequent period after the trial ends.