I was placed on a PIP by my employer—Now what do I do?

You’ve just been placed on a Performance Improvement Plan (commonly known as a “PIP”). Take a deep breath. While it may be framed as a supportive tool to help you improve, a PIP can be an employer’s first step in building a paper trail to justify termination of employment. That doesn’t mean you’re powerless, but it does mean you need to act strategically and quickly.

Maryland is an at-will employment state, which means that your employer can terminate your employment at any time without cause (unless the reason is discriminatory or retaliatory). You may wish to consult an employment attorney to evaluate whether you have a viable legal claim, but strong documentation is essential if you decide to pursue a wrongful termination case. Below are a few steps to take if you are placed on a PIP.

1. Read the PIP Carefully.

• Identify all measurable goals, deadlines, and names of supervisors—add them to your calendar or task list immediately.
• Look for missing benchmarks. Has your employer defined what counts as “improved” or “successful”?
• Document unclear or impossible expectations now. That record could be key if you’re later terminated for failing to meet them.

2. Request a Clarification Meeting (In Writing)

• In may circumstances, it may be a good idea to schedule a meeting to clarify deliverables, timelines, and support.
• After such a meeting, follow up with a summary email to document what was discussed and agreed upon.

3. Start a File and Document

• Save a copy of the PIP and related emails to your personal device or cloud storage.
• Maintain a dated log of all meetings, feedback, and deliverables and preserve time-stamped evidence (e.g., emails and proof of submitted work).
• Retain past performance reviews, awards, or praise that contradict the claims in the PIP.

4. Stay Professional: Every Interaction Counts

• Write every message as if it could be used in court. Avoid sarcasm, jokes, or emotional reactions.
• Document every request for support, training, or resources, and your employer’s response (or lack thereof).

5. Update Your Resume and Build Your Backup Plan

• Quietly update your resume and LinkedIn profile. You do not have to wait until the PIP ends to start looking for a new job.
• Back up your non-proprietary work samples (e.g., templates, spreadsheets, or charts you created) that highlight your skills and could be useful in future roles — but don’t download or retain any documents that contain company proprietary information or trade secrets.

6. Before Signing Anything, Talk to a Lawyer

• If you’re offered a resignation agreement, severance package, or reference letter, you do not have to sign on the spot. You may ask for time to review and negotiate if needed.
• Get all promises in writing, including any agreement to serve as a reference or provide severance.
• Consult an employment attorney with your thorough documentation in hand.