Went from discussing a promotion to being warned about a PIP. Feeling blindsided. Has anyone experienced this?
Earlier this year, I was passed over for a promotion because my manager felt I needed to demonstrate more consistency, ownership, and initiative.
I was disappointed but accepted the feedback and started working on those areas. We’ve had several development conversations since then, and my manager has acknowledged improvements.
At this point, I’d already accepted that a promotion wasn’t happening this year. I was focused on improving in my current role and continuing to grow.
Then recently, my manager told me that my performance was actually falling below expectations for my current position and warned that I could be placed on a formal PIP if things don’t improve.
This was the first time I’d heard that my current performance was considered unacceptable.
I’m honestly struggling to process it. For months, I thought we were discussing gaps between my current level and the next one. Now I’m being told I’m not consistently meeting expectations at the level I’m already at.
I’m frustrated because some of the feedback feels subjective, and responsibilities within the team haven’t always been clearly defined. At the same time, I recognize that I may have genuine blind spots and areas where I need to improve.
I’ve asked to work with my manager on a concrete improvement plan, but I’m worried that the decision about my future may already be made.
Has anyone experienced a similar shift in feedback? Were you able to recover, or did you end up leaving? What would you do in my position?
I’m especially interested in hearing from managers who’ve handled situations like this.