Performance Improvement Plans have become workplace weapons disguised as development tools, with 72% of employees viewing them as termination paperwork rather than genuine growth opportunities. Host Britton Wells and guest Nicole Gill dissect why traditional PIPs fail spectacularly, revealing that only 36% of employees actually improve under these plans. The conversation exposes the fundamental flaw: most managers skip crucial expectation-setting conversations and jump straight to documentation mode, creating distrust instead of development. The duo explores practical alternatives that actually work, emphasizing honest conversations, collaborative development plans, and manager accountability. They highlight how proper expectation setting, regular feedback, and genuine investment in employee growth can transform potential terminations into success stories. The episode serves as a wake-up call for organizations still relying on outdated performance management tactics that damage culture while failing to achieve their stated goals. Music by: Harvey Walman