What to do when someone complains to your boss about you?

Asked by: Marilie McCullough  |  Last update: December 1, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (10 votes)

Make sure to have an offline discussion with your boss to:
  1. Clear up what happened.
  2. Explain why you think this had to come to him.
  3. Talk about what wrong actions you may have taken and what actions you will take for a solution.
  4. Never complain about the Complainer, this is just a headache for your boss.

How to deal with someone who complains about you at work?

The Top 5 Etiquette Tips for Graciously Handling Constant Complainers
  • 1. Express a few words of sympathy, but only a few.
  • 2. Offer words of encouragement.
  • 3. Share information that might be helpful.
  • 4. Don't try to solve their problems.
  • 5. Lead them to their answer.

Can I be fired for complaining about my boss?

Assuming that this is the US, there are no laws that require companies to employ people who criticize their bosses or protect employees from being fired for complaining about their jobs while at the office.

How to deal with coworkers who complain about you behind your back?

  • Stay Professional : Maintain your professionalism and avoid engaging in similar behavior.
  • Address It Directly : If you feel comfortable, consider having a private conversation with the coworker.
  • Set Boundaries
  • Encourage Positivity
  • Talk to a Supervisor
  • Lead by Example
  • Document Incidents

How do you politely tell someone they are overstepping?

You can do this in person, by phone, or by email, depending on the context and urgency. Explain what the issue is, how it affects you and the team, and what you expect from them. Use specific examples and facts, not emotions or assumptions.

Don't Let Your Boss Ruin Your Life: How to Survive a Toxic Manager

23 related questions found

How do you tell someone to back off professionally?

10 Classy Ways to Tell Someone off
  1. “Can you help me understand how you arrived at that conclusion?” ...
  2. “I value your opinion and would love to pick up this conversation at another time.” ...
  3. “Would you mind if we circle back on this? ...
  4. “Would you mind walking me through your thought process?”

How to professionally tell someone to stay in their lane?

I know this is a change from how things used to be, but I do need you to respect these boundaries.” If you want, you can add, “If you decide the job has evolved in a way where it's no longer for you, I'd certainly understand, but I hope that won't be the case.”

How to respond when someone complains about you?

Acknowledge their feelings so they feel validated

You might say, "I understand you're feeling frustrated about this." Recognizing their emotions can help them feel heard and validated, which can sometimes be enough to reduce the intensity of their complaints.

What to do when people gossip about you at work?

9 ways to deal with work gossip
  1. Ignore it. ...
  2. Study it. ...
  3. Review company policy. ...
  4. Watch your own conversations. ...
  5. Keep your private life at home. ...
  6. Document everything. ...
  7. Address it directly. ...
  8. Keep a positive attitude.

How to deal with someone who undermines you at work?

How to deal with a coworker who undermines you
  1. Build your relationship. ...
  2. Address the issue directly. ...
  3. Ignore the behaviour. ...
  4. Ask your colleague for clarification. ...
  5. Remain confident in your abilities. ...
  6. Identify the reason for the animosity. ...
  7. Share your concerns. ...
  8. Leave the department or company.

What to do when someone complains about you to your boss?

It's generally a good idea to address the complaints with your boss and co-workers directly but approach the conversation with a constructive and non-confrontational mindset. Engage in open dialogue, listen to their concerns, and work together towards finding a resolution.

What words scare human resources?

Words like "harassment," "discrimination," and "lawsuit" are heavily loaded with legal implications, which can put HR on high alert. By using descriptive, neutral language, you can convey your concerns without triggering a defensive reaction.

Is complaining about your boss a protected activity?

A complaint about workplace harassment is a protected activity. However, complaining about your boss's poor management style or being a jerk is not a protected activity because that conduct is not illegal.

How to professionally tell someone to stop complaining?

Use Factual Information. If his complaints are unreasonable or are about an aspect of the small business that is unchangeable, you will have to explain to him why his complaint is not feasible. Tell him that you are sorry he feels that way, but his complaint is an unchangeable business regulation.

What happens when someone complains about you to HR?

HR investigations are used to collect evidence and facts surrounding the complaint, which are then used to determine if any corrective actions are necessary. They can also be used to determine if further action such as disciplinary actions, up to and including termination, are necessary.

What to do if you feel mistreated at work?

If you are being treated unfairly in the workplace, there are a number of steps you can take in order to protect your rights:
  1. Document The Unfair Treatment. ...
  2. Report The Unfair Treatment. ...
  3. Stay Away From Social Media. ...
  4. Take Care Of Yourself. ...
  5. Contact An Experienced Lawyer.

How to shut down workplace gossip?

Six tips for limiting and managing workplace gossip
  1. Lead by example. One great way to contribute to a positive work environment and avoid gossip in the workplace is to lead by example. ...
  2. Be inclusive. ...
  3. Act early. ...
  4. Encourage positive communication. ...
  5. Show empathy and care. ...
  6. Observe and assess.

What is malicious gossip at work?

Malicious Gossip.

If the employee is purposefully sharing false information, it could be considered harassment, discrimination, retaliation, slander, or defamation. Investigate the issue to see if the employee is in violation of your anti-harassment or nondiscrimination policies.

How to handle an employee who talks behind your back?

Best Ways to Handle Gossip in the Workplace
  1. Address the Instigator. When you find out people are talking about you in an intrusive or inappropriate way, you can address it directly. ...
  2. Offer a Solution. ...
  3. Vacate the Premises. ...
  4. Change the Conversation Topic. ...
  5. The Upside of Workplace Gossip. ...
  6. Report It. ...
  7. Find a New Place to Work.

How do you deal with someone who complained about you?

Tips on reacting to complaints and resolving issues
  1. Maintain professionalism. ...
  2. Consider your coworker's point of view. ...
  3. Ask questions. ...
  4. Request more time to propose a solution if needed. ...
  5. Use your emotional intelligence. ...
  6. Establish boundaries.

How to shut down negative people?

Ways To Shut The Negative People Out
  1. Reach out.
  2. Be honest. If you plan to reach out, try to be gentle but honest about how this person's actions are affecting you and others. ...
  3. Walk away. ...
  4. Give them what they need. ...
  5. Create space. ...
  6. Set boundaries. ...
  7. Model the desired behavior. ...
  8. Take a look at yourself.

How to set boundaries with a complainer?

If they continue, you can set up a boundary peacefully and lovingly by asking them to own the problem, says Vortherms. “You might say, 'I think I've actually heard you talking about this before, and I'm wondering if you are looking for some type of solution or if it's an ongoing problem in your life.

How to deal with a coworker who thinks they're your boss?

Start with these four tactics:
  1. Speak Up in the Moment. Your colleague has just taken charge and relegated you to a boring task again, and you're really upset about it. ...
  2. Schedule a Chat. Maybe you skimmed over the “raise your voice” advice thinking, “Been there. ...
  3. Nominate Co-workers. What is this? ...
  4. Go to Your Boss.

How do you tell an employee they are overstepping boundaries?

Some possibilities might include:
  1. Ask questions instead of “tell” advice.
  2. Maintain a positive demeanor (instead of exhibiting frustration) when delivering ideas and feedback.
  3. Use “I” statements instead of “you should” or “we need to” (Every should can be a question with could.)

How do I professionally tell someone to leave me alone?

Any statement you make should be clear and concise – and you should be prepared to repeat it. Something like: “I'm going through some difficult stuff right now and I need some privacy while I work things out. I'll get in touch down the road. I appreciate your patience.”