How to make a complaint?

Asked by: Kris Bartell  |  Last update: September 29, 2023
Score: 4.7/5 (21 votes)

An effective complaint often has three steps: explaining the problem; stating your feelings; and asking for action. The first step is to explain the problem. To do it effectively, you must use polite, respectful language. In English, polite language is usually indirect.

How do you make a proper complaint?

How to write an effective complaint letter
  1. Be clear and concise. ...
  2. State exactly what you want done and how long you're willing to wait for a response. ...
  3. Don't write an angry, sarcastic, or threatening letter. ...
  4. Include copies of relevant documents, like receipts, work orders, and warranties.

How do you start a complaint sentence?

I am writing to complain about… I am writing to express my concern about the fact that… I must complain in writing about… I feel I must complain to you about…

What are the four steps of the complaint process?

4 steps to handling a customer complaint
  • Identify the problem. The first thing to do in the case of a complaint is identify the problem. ...
  • Rectify the problem. ...
  • Follow up on the problem. ...
  • Learn from the problem.

What are the first 3 things you should do when handling a complaint?

Three Steps for Effectively Handling a Customer Complaint
  1. Listen attentively. ...
  2. Empathize and apologize. ...
  3. Offer and execute a solution. ...
  4. Why Good Customer Service is So Important.

Making Complaints

39 related questions found

What are the 4 types of complaints?

In general terms, there are four types of complaints – productive, venting, chronic, and malicious – and four varieties of complainers – aggressive, expressive, passive, and constructive.

What do you say when making a complaint?

phrases for making complaints in English
  1. I'm sorry to say this, but…
  2. I'd like to make a complaint about…
  3. I'm afraid I'd like to complain to you.
  4. Excuse me, but I'm really not happy with…
  5. Excuse me, but there seems to be a problem…
  6. There appears to be something wrong with…
  7. I was really upset when…

What is an example of a complaint statement?

I am complaining because ____ (the reason you are dissatisfied). To resolve this problem I would like you to ____ (what you want the business to do). When I first learned of this problem, I contacted ____ (name of the person, date of the call) at your company, and was told that nothing could be done about my problem.

Which of the following words should not be used in a complaint letter?

Don't write words that are angry, sarcastic, or threatening.

What makes a good complaint letter?

Tips for writing a successful complaint letter
  • Structure. ...
  • Address the letter to a real person. ...
  • Be honest and straightforward. ...
  • Maintain a firm but respectful tone, and avoid aggressive, accusing language. ...
  • Include your contact information. ...
  • Tell them what you want. ...
  • Do not threaten action. ...
  • Keep copies and records.

What is most important in a letter of complaint?

State what you feel should be done about the problem and how long you are willing to wait to get the problem resolved. Make sure that you are reasonable in requesting a specific action. Include copies of any documents regarding your problem, such as receipts, warranties, repair orders, contracts and so forth.

How do you say complaint professionally?

Start politely

Starting a complaint with “I'm sorry to bother you” or “Excuse me, I wonder if you can help me” puts the listener at ease. People are easier to deal with if they feel comfortable so even if you are angry, try to stay calm and start the conversation with one of these phrases.

What are the three types of complaints?

Customer service complaints can be many and varied, but generally, they fall into one of three categories.
  • Inferior product or service. Not surprisingly, dissatisfaction with a product or service is a common cause of customer complaints. ...
  • Delivery issues. ...
  • Indifferent customer service.

What are the common complaints?

We've rounded up some common customer complaints and ways to handle them correctly.
  • Long wait times. ...
  • Inability to speak with a human. ...
  • Unsupportive agents. ...
  • Needing to repeat information. ...
  • Inconvenient customer service hours. ...
  • Difficulty finding relevant information. ...
  • Lack of support channel variety. ...
  • Poor service or product.

How do you end a complaint letter?

Don't forget to end your complaint letter with a closing salutation such as "Yours sincerely" or "Sincerely" and to leave sufficient space for your signature (usually three lines). Last, be sure your letter is free from grammar and spelling errors by sending it for proofreading by the professionals at Scribendi.

What are the 3 steps making a complaint?

An effective complaint often has three steps: explaining the problem; stating your feelings; and asking for action. The first step is to explain the problem. To do it effectively, you must use polite, respectful language.

How do I complain without blame?

How to Complain Effectively
  1. Focus on feelings, not facts. "The difference comes down to whether you discuss the facts about a situation or your feelings about it," she says. ...
  2. Talk through what's frustrating you. ...
  3. Sandwich your complaint. ...
  4. Lead with how you feel.

Which is a common phrase to start a complaint letter?

* Firstly / In the first place / First of all * The first thing I would like to draw your attention to is... * My first concern / complaint is... * I would like you to look into this matter, and let me know your decision. * I hope that this matter can be resolved…

What is passive complaint?

Passive complainer

They are friendly but can be totally indecisive. You cannot hurry this type of customer. They hate sales pressure and need reassurance. Passive complainers are the most lethal to a business' success, as they will complain to everyone but the actual business.

What are valid complaints?

valid complaint means a complaint the administering authority considers is not frivolous, nor vexatious, nor based on mistaken belief.

What is aggressive complaint?

Unlike the Meek Complainer, the Aggressive Complainer complains loudly to any and all who will listen. Aggressive Complainers don't respond well to those who are aggressive in return. They also tend to be dismissive of excuses or reasons for the unsatisfactory experience.

What do you call a person who complains?

complainant. noun. com·​plain·​ant kəm-ˈplā-nənt. : the party (as a plaintiff or petitioner) who makes the complaint in a legal action or proceeding.

What do you call a person who complains about everything?

a person given to excessive complaints and crying and whining. synonyms: bellyacher, crybaby, grumbler, moaner, sniveller, squawker, whiner. types: kvetch. (Yiddish) a constant complainer. type of: disagreeable person, unpleasant person.

What are the 6 steps in taking complaints?

The 6 step guide to handling customer complaints:
  • Listen. The customer is concerned and they want to express it. ...
  • Empathise. It sounds cliche, but genuinely put yourself in the customer's shoes. ...
  • Thank the customer for the opportunity. ...
  • Solve the problem. ...
  • Deliver on your promise. ...
  • Follow up.

How do you expose a bad company?

Check out 10 effective ways and online destinations to file complaints that a company will pay attention to.
  1. Go to the company website. ...
  2. Contact the Better Business Bureau. ...
  3. Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). ...
  4. Check out the Ripoff Report. ...
  5. Email spam@uce.gov. ...
  6. Try Yelp. ...
  7. Post on Planet Feedback.