What to Do If You’re Put on a PIP

Being put on a Performance Improvement Plan can feel like being told you’re about to lose your job, only with a few extra meetings and a spreadsheet first.

But a PIP doesn’t automatically mean dismissal is inevitable.

Sometimes there are genuine performance concerns and a genuine opportunity to address them. Sometimes the situation is considerably less encouraging.

This guide helps you work out which situation you may be dealing with and what to do next.

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Don’t panic but don’t ignore it either

The first thing I’d want to understand is the quality of the PIP itself.

Are the concerns specific? Are the expectations measurable? Is the timescale realistic? Are you getting the support and feedback needed to demonstrate improvement?

Or are the expectations vague, constantly changing or impossible to evidence?

Those details matter.

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What you’ll learn

By the end of the guide, you’ll know how to:

• Understand exactly what the PIP requires.
• Challenge vague expectations and ask for measurable outcomes.
• Document progress without obsessively recording everything.
• Prepare properly for PIP meetings.
• Recognise signs of a genuine improvement process.
• Spot warning signs that the situation may be deteriorating.
• Build a quiet Plan B at the same time.
• Decide what to do depending on the final outcome.

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Includes a PIP Control Sheet

The guide includes a practical PIP Control Sheet to help you track each concern, what success looks like, the actions you’re taking, the evidence you have and the feedback you’re receiving.

The goal is to stop an already stressful situation becoming a vague one.

This is workplace and career strategy, not legal advice. The guide also explains when circumstances may warrant speaking to your union, Acas or an employment professional.

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Written by Lee Harding

I’ve spent 20+ years working in recruitment, Talent Acquisition and leadership, including senior and Director-level roles.

My advice comes from years spent on the other side of workplace decisions – hiring people, managing teams and working closely with managers and senior leaders.

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Know what you’re dealing with

Work towards passing the PIP.

At the same time, make sure you’re prepared for the possibility that you don’t.

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