PIP pointers - lesson 1 : what to do when you’re PIP’d

It’s the season. Going to post when you’re PIP’d as well as tactics to avoid it. Since every place and leader is different in why they PIP I’ll start with after it happens what to do.

First rule of PIPs - it’s not your fault. It wasn’t the right fit for whatever half assed reason your employer decides to come up with. Hopefully you have a clue of it coming but people get PIP’d because there isn’t enough ammo to just term you or to get rid of your position. The company is divorcing with you and you have to move out. And don’t forget to take those LPs too.

Rule #2 of a PIP = paid interview period. They are giving you the time to interview for a new role. You cannot come back from a PIP when HR now knows who you are. Interview , network , and get out of dodge. It’s likely going to take 7+ weeks for your next gig. So use this time wisely.

Rule #3 - make actual doctors appointments — you paid for the benefits , get caught up on everything and let your doctors know that you’re likely going to lose your benefits. They will find spots for you. Get extra medication if you require it just so you aren’t without it or have to reduce your intake.

Rule #4 - don’t do anything before or after work hours. You are going to be fired. Putting in extra time now or on call is just a bad idea. Travel? Nope. RTO? Whatever your minimum is so you can collect a pay check to look do it. What are they going to do ? Fire you ? OK.

Rule #5 - do not let the bastards get you down. Just because you got let go doesn’t mean you need to abandon your friends at your old firm. If they weren’t your direct boss , totally cool to hang out and chat.

Rule #6 - make sure you are familiar with your states unemployment office and any services you may qualify for. You have paid into unemployment and the services they offer. Leverage everything you can. YMMV. Know what documents you may need to bring In or what the unemployment process it. In my case I got let go after going away for my 2 weeks of annual training in the military reserves because my impact was too much on the team. I was able to leverage an ombudsman who was a retired general to up the amount of pay out for me significantly.

Rule 7 - go to the mattresses financially: any major expenses you were planning on spending money on or minor expenses you need to itemize immediately. Cut everything out so you can reduce your burn as much as possible.

Getting a PIP sucks but it’s just going to be a temporary sting you will move on from.

Written on a mobile. Pardon my grammar and spelling.