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22 Expert Tips for Developing Successful Performance Improvement Plans

A Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) is a tool used by organizations to help identify, measure, and improve the performance of their employees. It is an effective way to identify areas for improvement, provide feedback and support for employees, and set expectations for both the employee and the organization. Developing a Performance Improvement Plan is an important part of any successful organizational development strategy.

Performance Improvement Plans can be used to shape the way employees approach their work and help to ensure that organizational goals and objectives are met. When correctly implemented, a Performance Improvement Plan can help increase employee engagement and performance, as well as reduce turnover and absenteeism. When developing a Performance Improvement Plan, it is important to consider the following key points:
1. Set expectations
The first step in developing a Performance Improvement Plan is to set expectations for the employee and the organization. This includes setting clear performance goals, timelines, and expectations for outcomes. It is important that the employee understands what is expected of them and that the organization is clear on what it expects from the employee.
2. Identify performance gaps
The next step is to identify and assess any performance gaps that exist. This can be done through regular performance reviews, feedback from supervisors, or by tracking performance against established goals and objectives.
3. Develop action plans
Once performance gaps have been identified, it is important to develop action plans to address them. This includes developing strategies and solutions to bridge any gaps and improve overall performance.
4. Monitor progress
It is important to monitor progress and evaluate the effectiveness of any strategies or solutions implemented. This can be done through regular performance reviews, feedback from supervisors, or by tracking performance against established goals and objectives.
5. Provide feedback and support
It is important to provide regular feedback and support to help employees achieve their goals. This can include developing a plan for coaching, mentoring, and providing resources to help them reach their goals.
6. Evaluate results
Finally, it is important to evaluate the results of any Performance Improvement Plan. This can be done through regular performance reviews, feedback from supervisors, or by tracking performance against established goals and objectives.


Performance improvement plans (PIPs) are a powerful tool for improving employees’ performance. By providing clear expectations, regularly scheduled progress reviews, and targeted goals, PIPs can help employees identify areas for improvement and take action to address them. Creating an effective PIP requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are 22 tips for developing successful PIPs:
1. Focus on the desired outcome
The goal of a PIP is to improve an employee’s performance, so it is important to focus on the desired outcome and not the problem behavior.
2. Make sure the employee is involved
An effective PIP should involve the employee in developing the plan, as this will help ensure that the goals are reasonable and achievable.
3. Establish measurable goals
Set specific, measurable goals that can be tracked and monitored over time.
4. Break down the goals into smaller steps
If the goals are too large, they may be overwhelming. Breaking the goals down into smaller, manageable steps will make them easier to achieve.
5. Set realistic deadlines
Establish reasonable timelines for goals and review periods.
6. Provide feedback
Provide regular feedback on progress to ensure that the employee is on track to meet their goals.
7. Offer support
Offer support and resources as needed to help the employee reach their goals.
8. Have a clear plan for documenting progress
Documenting progress helps to ensure that the employee is making progress and that the PIP is working.
9. Review progress regularly
Regularly review progress to ensure that the PIP is on track and to make sure that any adjustments need to be made.
10. Make sure the goals are achievable
Make sure that the goals are achievable and that the employee has the necessary skills and resources to reach them.
11. Be flexible
Be willing to adjust the plan as needed to ensure that the employee can reach their goals.
12. Be consistent
To be effective, PIPs need to be consistently implemented.
13. Involve other stakeholders.
Involve other stakeholders, such as managers, mentors, and colleagues, to ensure that the PIP is successful.
14. Follow up
Follow up on progress to ensure that the employee is on track and to provide additional support as needed.
15. Communicate expectations
Communicate expectations clearly and in detail to ensure that the employee understands what is expected of them.
16. Encourage open communication
Encourage open communication between the employee and other stakeholders to ensure that any issues are addressed promptly.
17. Be specific
Be as specific as possible with goals and expectations to ensure that the employee knows exactly what is expected of them.
18. Set achievable goals
Set goals that are achievable within the timeframe of the PIP.
19. Monitor progress
Monitor progress regularly to ensure that the employee is making progress.
20. Provide incentives
Provide incentives, such as recognition or rewards, to encourage the employee to make progress.
21. Celebrate successes
Acknowledge successes to help motivate the employee and to demonstrate that their hard work is appreciated.
22. Evaluate the PIP
Evaluate the PIP at the end of the period to determine its effectiveness and to identify areas for improvement.

Developing a Performance Improvement Plan is an important part of any successful organizational development strategy. It is a tool used to help identify, measure, and improve the performance of employees. When correctly implemented, a Performance Improvement Plan can help increase employee engagement and performance, as well as reduce turnover and absenteeism. By following the steps outlined above, organizations can ensure that their Performance Improvement Plans are effective and successful.
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