A Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) is more than just a formal HR document—it’s a structured opportunity to support an employee’s growth, address performance gaps, and clarify expectations. Whether you’re a manager dealing with underperformance or an HR specialist creating development paths, a PIP template can simplify the process.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled 35+ free performance improvement plan templates and examples in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint formats. These professional, ready-to-use resources guide you through setting clear goals, timelines, and support strategies for your employees.
✔️ What Is a Performance Improvement Plan?
A Performance Improvement Plan is a written document outlining:
- Specific areas where performance needs to improve
- Measurable objectives to be met
- A timeline for improvement
- Resources or support provided
- Consequences of not meeting the goals
PIPs are often used to give employees a fair chance to correct performance issues before further action is taken.
✔️ Why Use a PIP Template?
✅ Ensures consistency and fairness in HR processes
✅ Provides legal protection by documenting performance expectations
✅ Offers a structured roadmap for improvement
✅ Reduces confusion and encourages accountability
✅ Saves time with ready-made sections and formats
Using a professional template can also ease tensions by showing that the PIP is a tool for growth—not punishment.
✔️ What’s Inside the 35+ Free Template Collection?
Our templates are fully customizable and include a range of use cases and formats to suit different roles and industries.
📄 Word Templates Include:
- Simple performance improvement plan documents
- PIPs with competency-based goals
- Editable PIP forms for employee and manager input
- Templates for behavior-based improvement plans
- Written warnings with integrated PIP sections
📊 PowerPoint Templates Include:
- Presentation-ready PIP overviews for HR or leadership meetings
- Visual goal-tracking charts
- Timelines and performance metrics
- Slide decks for employee coaching sessions
Each template can be adapted for technical, administrative, leadership, or customer service roles.
✔️ Sample PIP Template Outline (Word)
Employee Name: [Insert]
Position: [Insert]
Department: [Insert]
Date Issued: [Insert]
Performance Issues Identified:
- Missed project deadlines in Q2 and Q3
- Frequent absenteeism without notice
- Inconsistent communication with team
Improvement Goals:
- Complete all assigned tasks by due dates for the next 60 days
- Adhere to company attendance policy (max 1 unexcused absence per month)
- Provide weekly project status updates to the team lead
Timeline: 60 Days
Support Offered: Weekly check-ins, time management training
Consequences if Not Met: Formal disciplinary action, up to termination
Signatures:
Employee: ____________
Manager: ____________
HR Rep: ____________
✔️ Who Should Use These Templates?
☑️ HR professionals – issuing formal documentation in line with policy
☑️ Supervisors and managers – addressing performance issues constructively
☑️ Team leaders – coaching team members with measurable expectations
☑️ Small business owners – handling performance problems without legal risk
☑️ Employees – who want to understand and participate in their development process
✔️ Best Practices for Writing a Performance Improvement Plan
✅ Be specific—list behaviors, not just outcomes
✅ Include deadlines and timelines
✅ Make goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
✅ Offer support: training, mentoring, or coaching
✅ Schedule regular review checkpoints
✅ Avoid emotional or vague language
PIPs should feel collaborative, not punitive. They work best when framed as opportunities for growth.
➡️ Download, Document, and Develop
Don’t leave performance management to guesswork. With these 35+ free performance improvement plan templates and examples, you’ll create clear, professional documents that promote accountability and growth.
👉 Download now in Word or PowerPoint and take control of performance issues the smart, structured way.
