A performance improvement plan (PIP), also called a Performance Empowerment Plan, is a formal, documented, time-bound plan for an employee who continues to miss performance expectations despite coaching. It defines actionable improvements, timelines, monitoring, and possible consequences. section 4.5.1
A PIP differs from an earlier coaching plan in several important ways:
- It is more formal, shorter, and more tightly time-bound. section 4.5.1
- It uses more direct action items, estimated timelines, and robust documentation. section 4.5.1
- Human resources is typically involved in the process. section 4.5.1
- It serves as a final opportunity to improve before potential termination. section 4.5.1
Example: continued missed deadlines
John received coaching, learning resources, clarified expectations, and regular progress reviews documented by email. When he continued to miss deadlines, a PIP became the next step, with direct actions, time limits, and clearly communicated consequences. section 4.5.1
