2026 MIE National Conference for Legal Aid Managers

Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) can be an important supervisory tool in a manager’s toolbelt to help a struggling staff member, but they are often not used as frequently or effectively as they should be. In this session, we explore what a PIP is, when it should be used, and best practices for drafting not only the PIP itself, but progress reports during the period of the PIP. You will hear from both a local manager and an HR representative on best practices, potential downfalls, and other key considerations to keep in mind when considering and implementing a PIP. We will use real life examples to illustrate the difference between a successful and unsuccessful PIP and discuss how to work in collaboration with struggling staff members to help them succeed–during the period of the PIP itself and long after it’s ended.