The Top Five Things to Consider before Filing an Employee Relations Complaint

Read Time: 2 Minutes

This felt like a useful guide for employees at all levels of an organisation could use to help understand the process of filing a complaint. From the outset, the author Patrice Miller outlines the reality of what can be expected, as well as helping to distinguish the difference between Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaints and what is more Employee Relations problems – such as just not getting along with someone.

Some interesting points were the warnings against filing complaints that may backfire or cause more harm than good. Such as understanding the importance of not being a “serial complainer” to avoid negative repercussions and potential retaliation.

Also to looking for alternative solutions with some practical advice that can help employees avoid the formal complaint process if issues can be resolved through communication or mediation.

Miller has a deep understanding of the topic, having worked in and around the HR area for a good few decades. There was an interesting reminder early on that that HR is there for the company. Miller recounts a situation where she was asked directly if she was there for the new recruit or the company, to which she replies that the company signs her pay cheques.

I had thought this might frame the discussion to be essentially dissuading people from lodging complaints at all, but what Miller is getting across is the right way to go about it that will be effective and help protect the employee at the same time. So while it’s a candid reminder that HR ultimately serves the company’s interests, which is crucial for employees to understand when seeking resolutions, it’s also helps inform employees what the HR process is to help them prepare better.

While Miller does quote US-specific laws and acts, the information contained within is general enough that it’s likely applicable to many countries in the world, as most would have similar EEO type protections and expectations in place.

Ultimately, a short yet useful guide that helps set the expectations for employees before they lodge a complaint.

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