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Episode Description
Ever hidden a Performance Improvement Plan in your bottom drawer, hoping you'll never need it? You're not alone.
Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) are often dreaded by managers and employees alike, but this episode transforms them from scary legal documents into practical tools for genuine improvement. We break down exactly why poorly executed PIPs can devastate small businesses, sharing real-world horror stories of expensive tribunal cases that could have been avoided with proper documentation.
The heart of this episode reveals the three essential pillars every tribunal-proof PIP must contain: clear measurable goals (not vague aspirations), realistic timelines with specific dates, and documented support measures. You'll learn our seven-step PIP recipe that takes the stress out of the process: gathering evidence, drafting SMART goals, setting precise timelines, providing meaningful support, conducting effective meetings, implementing weekly check-ins, and properly concluding the process.
We don't shy away from the awkward bits either – covering how to handle remote workers, mental health considerations, and what to do when someone refuses to sign. The episode includes ready-to-use templates for customer service, production, and marketing roles that you can adapt immediately. With the average unfair dismissal award sitting at £18,000 (plus legal fees), investing time in proper performance management isn't just good practice – it's financial self-defense.
Whether you're a small business owner trying to improve team performance or an HR professional looking to refine your processes, this episode delivers practical, jargon-free guidance that protects your business while giving struggling employees a fair chance to succeed. Need more help? Reach out for our free 30-minute consultation to discuss your specific situation.
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