Difference Between Complaint and Grievance

The main difference between complaint and grievance is that a grievance is more formal than a complaint.

Complaints and grievances are common occurrences in most workplaces. It is important to deal with them a timely and fair manner. A complaint can be any accusation, charge or allegation, either oral or written.  A grievance, on the other hand, is a formal complaint that is made by an employee towards an employer within the workplace.  

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Complaint
     – Definition, Features, Nature
2. What is a Grievance
     – Definition, Features
3. What is the Difference Between Complaint and Grievance
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Complaints, Grievances, Workplace, Employees

What is a Complaint

A complaint is an expression of pain, grief, or discontent. In other words, it is a statement that something is wrong or dissatisfactory. In a workplace, a complaint can be an oral, unwritten accusation, allegation, or charge against someone or something. Complaints are a very common occurrence in most institutions. Even the most work-friendly companies may have complaints from employees. They can cover everything from the cleanliness of restrooms to problems with work hours or job pressure. Some complaints can be solved quickly and easily, while others may take more time and patience to resolve.

Although complaints may seem like a nuisance, they are early warnings that something is not right at the workplace. They can warn you about new or growing problems before they get out of hand and turn into grievances. The best way to deal with complaints is to listen carefully to the complaint, take note of the specifics, question other employees about their views on the issue, and take necessary steps to solve the issue. It is also important to update the employees about the status of the problem.

What is a Grievance

A grievance is a formal complaint that is made by an employee towards an employer within the workplace. Grievances may be made by an employee against another employee or an employee against their employer. They are usually a result of a violation of legalities. Issues like discrimination, bullying or harassment, workplace health and safety, organizational changes, and terms and conditions of employment are some examples that can cause grievances. In brief, when compared to complaints, grievances are more formal.

In order to deal with grievances at the workplace, it is important that employers maintain a workplace grievance policy. Moreover, employers have a responsibility to deal with grievances in a timely, appropriate and fair manner. It is also important to note that employees are less likely to make grievances if employers constantly stay in touch with their employees and have a system for dealing with complaints quickly and consistently.

Difference Between Complaint and Grievance

Definition

A complaint can be any accusation, charge or allegation, either oral or written. In contrast, a grievance is a formal complaint made by an employee due to a violation of legalities. 

Formality

Grievances are more formal than complaints.

Nature

Moreover, complaints may be just oral or unwritten while grievances are in the written form.

Cause

Complaints may be caused by minor issues as well as major issues, whereas grievances are usually caused by major issues such as violations of legalities.

Conclusion

A complaint can be any accusation, charge or allegation, either oral or written.  A grievance, on the other hand, is a formal complaint that is made by an employee towards an employer within the workplace.  The main difference between complaint and grievance is their level of formality.

Reference:

1. Chan, Gabrielle. “Understanding Workplace Grievances And Complaints.” Employsure, 14 Jan. 2020, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Complaint” By Nick Youngson – Alpha Stock Images (CC BY-SA 3.0) via The Blue Diamond Gallery
2. “3233158” (CC0) via Pixabay