This year I got several one-on-one confrontations with my boss so I think I’ve had much practice on how to complain about work conditions. Boss consultations are the best time to voice out your complaints.

Your boss is not always right. It’s just that it’s hard to tell them they’re wrong. And when you’re being reprimanded, it’s not always your fault entirely. Instead of being the recipient of all blames and complaints, be proactive and be in control by explaining why you don’t deserve to be reprimanded.

Stay calm. Being angry will make you seem unprofessional and emotional. These two are always seen as negative work attitudes. If you allow yourself to get carried away by your anger, you may not be able to justify your complaints eloquently. The calmer you complain, the more dignified you seem and the higher chances you will come across as correct.

Don’t get intimidated. Your boss has an air that intimidates you. That’s why you can’t seem to talk to him straight when you’re having problems with work. If you allow yourself to be intimidated, you will forget your arguments and may not be able to defend them.

Collect all evidences of your complaints. Present proofs to show that it’s not really your fault. State specific instances to support your grumbles.

If you let your boss blame you for every single error that happens, he will make a habit out of it. So speak up, and don’t be afraid to explain. He may think you’re pertinent, but you’re really just being honest and proactive. Being the boss means he has the last word, but it doesn’t mean you cannot defend yourself, especially when you know that you’re right this time.