How to Voice Complaints in a Professional Way via Email and In-Person

This article was co-authored by Sheila A. Anderson and by wikiHow staff writer, Luke Smith, MFA. Sheila A. Anderson is a Certified Image Consultant, International Branding Icon, and the Founder of Image Power Play, an impression management and personal branding company. With over three decades of experience, she specializes in empowering corporate professionals to raise their personal image to meet the value of their brand. Sheila is a Certified Image Consultant with The Image Resource Network and a Certified Universal Style Consultant with The Universal Style International. Sheila is a member of the C-Suite Network Advisors and the author of the book, I.C.U., The Comprehensive Guide to Breathing Life Back Into Your Personal Brand.

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As much as we wish we could avoid it, conflict happens, even (and especially) in the workplace and other professional settings. But when your coworker, boss, or a company does something to disappoint you, how do you voice that disappointment? You don’t want to stir up drama, but you need to say something, right? The key is a level head and a diplomatic tone. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to expressing your disappointment and finding resolution via email, in person, and in a formal letter of complaint. Take a deep breath, and remember: you deserve to have your concerns heard.