06/04/2026
For some employees, a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) feels like a second chance. For many others, it's the beginning of the end. Both can be true.
Here's what to do:
1️⃣ Stay calm and professional. You're under a microscope now.
2️⃣ Ask for specifics in writing — measurable goals, timelines, and who will evaluate your progress. Vague PIPs are a red flag.
3️⃣ Document everything — meetings, feedback, and any inconsistencies between what's written and what's said.
4️⃣ Look for patterns. Were you performing fine until you complained about discrimination, took leave, or requested an accommodation? This may not be about performance — it may be about retaliation.
5️⃣ Get legal advice early. The earlier you consult an employment attorney, the more options you have to protect yourself.
A PIP doesn't always mean you're on the way out, but it always means you need to be intentional about your next steps.
What's one thing you wish you'd known when you were first put on a PIP?
If you have questions about your employment, call 423-406-1151 to schedule an appointment.
