A good written grievance should contain three parts
The purpose of a written grievance is to give the employer official notification of a dispute. Your contract specifies when you should put the grievance into writing and establishes time limits to follow. A written grievance should not be long or complicated. Because the written grievance only provides a written notification, you should not argue your case in writing.
A good written grievance should contain three parts:
The What
The Circumstance—What happened or failed to happen? (This includes the grievant’s name as well as when and where the infraction happened.) It should be one sentence.
The Why
The Contention—Mention all sections of the contract that might possibly be violated. Add past practice or other violations which might apply. Do not include a specific section of the contract unless you have evidence to support your accusation. Cover all your bases by using the phrase “and all other relevant sections of the contract.” Example: “This action violates Section II, Article 3, and all other relevant sections of the contract.”
The How
The Remedy—How do you want the employer to correct the situation? Ask for all the benefits the worker would have if the violation had never occurred. Again, cover your bases by using the inclusive phrases: “shall be made whole for any and all losses” or “and any and all other benefits to which the grievant is entitled.”
