If you need to put an employee on a performance improvement plan (PIP), starting with a template can make the documentation process much easier than simply starting from a blank screen. While no two PIPs are identical, the basic format doesn't vary significantly. The free printable template provided here may work perfectly for your needs.
Printable PIP Template
The printable PIP template provided here can be customized, saved and printed.
- To download the PIP template provided here, you must have a PDF reader installed on your computer. If you do not already have one, you can download Adobe's free PDF reader in a few simple steps.
- Once you are sure you have the necessary software, simply click the image at the top of this article. The template will open in a separate window or file, depending on the browser you are using.
- Save the template to your computer (either by clicking the diskette in the menu bar or by going to the File menu and clicking "Save" or "Save As."
- Click inside the shaded area to enter information specific to your situation, being sure to delete the instructional text under the "Areas of Concern" and "Goals to Accomplish" heading.
- You can edit any of the text in the document using your keyboard and mouse. Review the wording carefully, adjusting as needed to match your company's policies and procedures.
- When you are finished, save the document again using an appropriate file name and print.
Other Template Options
There are other approaches to creating PIPs. If you don't like the layout or organization of the template provided here, you may find one of these options to be better suited to your needs:
- Memo-style PIP: This template is set up as a memo, with to, from, subject, CC and date lines at the top. It is a PDF document, but it's not one that you can edit directly. You can, however, use it as a guideline for setting up an editable document using a word processing program.
- Very detailed PIP: If you prefer a plan with a very high level of detail, this multi-page template may be what you need. As with the template listed above, it is not a fill-in form, but rather an example you can use as a guideline for setting up your own editable version.
Verify Compliance
These examples are given for informational purposes only. A number of organization-specific factors impact exactly what should be included in real plans, as well as how they should be worded.
Have your HR department or legal counsel review any template you are considering before you actually use it with an employee. This is to ensure that the language is appropriate for your organization and that there is nothing in it that is not appropriate in your situation.
