A Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) is a formal document outlining measurable performance expectations and improvement goals for an employee whose performance is below the bar. It defines a timeline (typically 30-90 days), regular check-ins, and explicit consequences if the goals are not met (typically termination). HR and managers use it to either drive measurable improvement or document performance issues before terminating. It's the formal step between an informal performance conversation and termination.
The structure of a PIP:
Specific deficiencies: documented, measurable behaviors or outcomes that are below expectations (not vague characterizations).
Improvement goals: specific, measurable targets t...