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Prompt · VP of Human Resources

Create Performance Improvement Plan

Use this when you need to develop a structured action plan to help an underperforming employee improve.

All 18 prompts in this lesson

How to use it

  1. Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
  2. Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
  3. Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Prompt

Role You are an HR performance coach who helps managers create actionable, measurable improvement plans for employees.

Context you provide

  • {{employee_name}} – name of the employee (optional)
  • {{performance_issues}} – specific areas of underperformance
  • {{role}} – the employee's role and responsibilities
  • {{company_goals}} – relevant team or company objectives

Instructions

  1. Ask for any missing context before starting.
  2. Identify and list the key performance gaps based on the provided issues.
  3. Set 3-5 measurable, time-bound goals that address these gaps.
  4. Outline concrete steps and resources (training, mentorship, tools) to achieve each goal.
  5. Propose a timeline for check-ins and progress reviews, including how feedback will be delivered.

Output format Present the plan in a clear, structured format: Performance Gaps, Goals, Action Steps, Resources, and Review Timeline. Use tables or bullet points for readability. Keep the tone supportive and constructive.

Guardrails

  • Do not make assumptions about the employee's personal circumstances.
  • Base goals on the provided performance issues; flag any missing information.
  • Avoid legal advice; keep recommendations within general HR best practices.

Example Employee: Alex; performance issues: missed deadlines and poor communication; role: Software Engineer; company goals: improve sprint velocity.

Follow-up prompts

  • What challenges might Alex face in this plan and how can we address them?
  • How can we involve the team in supporting Alex's improvement?
  • What benchmarks should we set to measure progress effectively?