How to Write an Effective Grievance

Even in the best of situations, something can go wrong. Your employer can make a bad decision regarding the terms of your employment and you need to stand up for yourself. That being said, know the terms of your contract of employment. Some people will have this in written form, others only have a verbal contract. If you belong to a union, know the bargaining agreement and the union's process for filing a grievance.

Instructions

1. The first step to writing an effective grievance is to have an issue that really is grievable. You don't want to make yourself look like a frivolous complainer, so only write a grievance when you really have to do so. Make sure that your complaint is worthy of writing. Can your issue be resolved informally? If so, a grievance is not the way to go.

2. Write down all the facts of the situation. Make sure you have the details of who, what, where, when, and how. If you have witnesses, make a list of them as well and their contact information.

3. Determine the applicable part of the contract or bargaining agreement that was broken or not applied appropriately. If there is more than one section, list them. If you are listing from a bargaining agreement or written contract, list the section or article number for easy reference.

4. Determine what resolution you want from this grievance. Be reasonable and make the remedy applicable to the situation at hand. If you have more than one resolution you'd be happy to receive, make a list in priority order.

5. Now that you have done all the preparation, you are ready to actually write the grievance. Stick to the facts of the case at hand. Explain what the problem was, how it violated the terms of your contract or bargaining agreement, and your proposed resolution(s) to the situation. Keep the grievance succinct, using proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

6. 

   File your grievance within the applicable timeframes. In some situations and bargaining agreements, if you do not file the grievance within a specified timeframe, it can be rejected as untimely. Keep all your notes and any evidence so you will be prepared to present your case when the grievance is heard by an administrator.

Tips & Warnings

• Clear and concise writing. Stick to the point.

• Don't file grievances over trivial issues or you will be seen as a trouble maker.