performance improvement plan

Intermediate 👥 Human Resources

Definition

A formal document outlining performance deficiencies and required improvements, theoretically offering support but practically serving as termination paperwork. The corporate 'we need to talk' that never ends well.

Example Usage

Being put on a performance improvement plan supposedly gives me 90 days to improve, but everyone knows it's just documentation for my inevitable firing.

Origin

Emerged in the 1970s-80s as wrongful termination lawsuits increased and companies needed documentation

Fun Fact

Studies suggest less than 10% of employees on PIPs successfully improve and remain with the company—most either quit or are terminated, making PIPs effectively termination with extra steps.

Source: Performance management and progressive discipline practices

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