PIP
Performance Improvement Plan
A documented plan that sets performance concerns expected improvements support and a review period for an employee.
Plain English
A formal process for clarifying what must improve and how progress will be assessed.
In context
A useful PIP states observable gaps measurable expectations resources checkpoints and possible outcomes while following company policy and applicable law.
Example
“The manager and employee reviewed the PIP milestones in their weekly one-on-one.”
When you'll hear this
- performance management
- manager check-ins
- employee relations
Common misunderstanding
PIP normally means Performance Improvement Plan rather than Personal Improvement Plan and it should not be treated as a guaranteed dismissal.
Also known as
performance improvement planpersonal improvement plan
Commonly used by
Related terms
Updated: 2026-08-27
