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The Global Insight

How do I write a complaint letter about a rude co-worker?

Author

Sarah Garza

Updated on March 31, 2026

Steps To Writing A Formal Complaint Letter

  1. Always try to resolve the conflict amicably before proceeding to a formal complaint letter.
  2. Write down the details about the harassment.
  3. Format your letter professionally.
  4. Introduce yourself and your purpose.
  5. Include details about the facts of the harassment.

How do I complain about a coworker?

To make your complaint, try using a technique called “I-statements”. With an I-statement, you focus on the problem you’re having instead of what’s wrong with your coworker, then you ask for what you need. A well-worded I-statement, delivered in a friendly tone, doesn’t sound at all confrontational.

Can you file a grievance against a coworker?

You can’t file a grievance against a co-worker. Asking the Union to grieve another coworker who most likely is a bargained for employee, is not the appropriate, or even a possible course of action. The grievance procedure exists for one reason only: to enforce the contract.

How do I write a letter of complaint about a coworker?

How to write a formal complaint letter about a coworker

  1. Try to resolve the conflict on your own.
  2. Make sure you have an issue to report.
  3. State the purpose of the letter.
  4. Include a lot of details.
  5. Explain your involvement in the situation.
  6. Propose a resolution.
  7. Make a copy of your letter.

How do you write a formal complaint at work?

Basic rules

  1. keep your letter to the point. You need to give enough detail for your employer to be able to investigate your complaint properly.
  2. keep to the facts.
  3. never use abusive or offensive language.
  4. explain how you felt about the behaviour you are complaining about but don’t use emotive language.

How do you write an HR complaint?

A few tips you could use when drafting an Employee complaint letter include:

  1. Identify exactly the kind of workplace harassment that took place.
  2. Write down the details about the harassment.
  3. Introduce yourself and your purpose.
  4. Present the facts of the harassment.
  5. Explain in great detail how you responded.