Many employees often see Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) as a precursor to termination, and they are not always wrong. If you have been placed on a PIP, you may feel stressed and anxious. The Performance Improvement Plan is a written document that will be detailed and mention actionable goals you must achieve within the evaluation period. Your best bet is to check for performance improvement plan law guides, which are often written by lawyers and contain thorough information. In this post, we are answering some of the top questions related to PIPs.
Does a PIP mean you will be fired?
This is true in some circumstances, but it may not be true for every employee placed on a performance improvement plan. Not all PIPs lead to termination. Having said that, you should try and find more details about why you have failed to meet the expectations of your employer. Did you do your job well? Did you get positive performance reviews?
How should you deal with a PIP?
Firstly, retain your calm. Read the PIP in detail to understand the possible allegations against you. As mentioned, PIPs should be actionable. For instance, if the document says you need to be more productive, it is not a specific goal. You will be able to evaluate whether the PIP is fair and justified. Try answering a few questions – Is the PIP detailed and includes clear instructions? Are the expectations realistic? Are these expectations in sync with your primary job description? Make sure to meet your manager to know if you are close to the required performance.
What if you have been fired after PIP failure?
If you have been terminated from the job because you failed to perform according to the PIP, it is time to meet an attorney. You may have a severance package to deal with, and these agreements tend to be complex. If you fail to understand the terms and conditions, there could be severe consequences. Stakes are high, because your future career could be at risk. An employment lawyer can guide you further on how to avoid common mistakes.
Working with an attorney
If you are hiring an attorney for the first time, make sure they have experience in handling PIP cases. The firm’s overall reputation is also a factor. Schedule a consultation to know the assistance that an attorney can offer. You can also discuss other concerns, including whether the PIP is biased.
