About the Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) Template
A performance improvement plan works best when it is clear and structured, not vague or confusing. This template gives managers and employees a simple roadmap they can follow together so everyone understands what needs to change and how success will be measured. It is designed to support real improvement and make tough conversations feel a little easier to navigate.
What’s Included in Our PIP Template
Our PIP template includes the core pieces needed for a fair and consistent improvement plan. Inside, you will find:
Introduction
This section sets the tone for the plan. It acknowledges the employee’s potential, explains why the PIP is being put in place and frames the document as a support tool instead of a punishment. The template includes sample language so managers do not have to start with a blank page.
Areas of Improvement Needed
Managers use this section to describe the specific performance issues that need attention. It helps create transparency by clearly outlining where performance is falling short so expectations are based on facts instead of vague impressions.
Improvement Plan
This section breaks down what needs to change and how improvement will be measured. It includes space to outline required improvements, define metrics or milestones and document available resources like training or 1:1 support.
Next Steps
This final piece covers the effective date, length of the PIP and what will happen next. It clarifies how long the plan will last, how often check-ins will occur and the potential consequences if expectations are not met.
If your company needs a more standardized way to manage PIPs across teams and time, HR Acuity’s PIP tools inside our ER platform can help tighten your entire process and make it easier for managers to stay consistent.
Performance Improvement Plan Example
Below is an example built directly from the HR Acuity PIP template so you can see how each part works in practice.
Example PIP
Date: March 12 2025
From: Jordan Mitchell
RE: Your Performance Improvement Plan
Employee: Taylor
We recognize your potential and want to support you in reaching stronger performance. Right now, there are specific areas that need improvement in order to meet the expectations of your role.
We have outlined the following Performance Improvement Plan to help bring your performance in line with expectations and support your development. The purpose of this plan is to identify where improvement is needed, set clear expectations and give you a fair opportunity to show progress.
Areas of Improvement Needed
-
Missed project deadlines over the last 90 days
-
Quality issues requiring rework on several client deliverables
-
Slow response to internal messages
Your Improvement Plan
To improve performance you will:
-
Submit deliverables by assigned deadlines during the PIP period
-
Meet quality expectations so most work requires no more than one round of revisions
-
Respond to internal messages within one business day
How Success Will Be Measured
-
On-time completion rate during the PIP period
-
Quality checks meeting standards
-
Responsiveness tracked through project tools
Your Resources
-
Weekly 1:1s with your manager
-
Training on project planning and time management
-
Access to a mentor for support
Next Steps
Effective March 15, 2025, you will begin a 60-day PIP. Your manager will monitor progress and hold regular check-ins. Failure to meet expectations may result in further action, which could include termination. This plan may be adjusted based on your progress.
We believe you can meet the goals outlined and maintain strong performance after completing the plan. Please discuss any questions with your manager.
How HR Acuity’s PIP Software Makes Performance Management Easier
Managing a PIP should not feel like chasing documents, emails and notes across different systems. HR Acuity pulls everything into one centralized place so managers can coach effectively and employees know exactly what is expected.
With HR Acuity, managers get guided workflows that walk them through each step of the plan. Goals and expectations automatically flow into letters which reduces manual work and lowers the chance of mistakes. Reminders help keep the plan moving so progress does not stall after the first meeting.
HR teams get visibility without micromanaging. Every interaction and decision is stored securely which creates a reliable source of truth if questions ever come up. Analytics uncover trends in performance issues, PIP outcomes and plan duration so HR can spot patterns early and act before small issues escalate.
Most importantly, HR Acuity helps shift PIPs from a box-checking exercise to a real support tool. With clear structure and consistent coaching, managers spend less time stressing over documentation and more time helping employees improve.
Strengthen Your Performance Improvement Plan Processes with HR Acuity
It’s nice to think we all perform at our best and constantly exceed expectations every day. However, reality would suggest otherwise. While we all have off days, there are occasions when an employee isn’t living up to the goals and objectives the organization has for their role. Performance improvement plans can be a useful tool when a team member requires a nudge in the right direction or needs to brush up skills in a particular area.
PIPs are best implemented in a thorough, thoughtful, and standardized way. In other words, every organization should be using a PIP template.
Don’t have one? HR Acuity has you covered. Download your Performance Improvement Plan Template here.
If your organization is ready for a smoother, more reliable PIP process, HR Acuity makes it easy to get started. Book a demo today to see the platform in action.
