While it's true that nobody likes a griper, there's a difference between people who are chronic malcontents and those of us who use complaints diplomatically to try to make things better. When office problems arise, talking about them soon after the fact is often better than letting things fester.
The best way to sort things through is to approach the person most immediately responsible for the problem. Find a mutually convenient time to talk, perhaps by scheduling an appointment, lunch or coffee break when you can meet privately.
Stay away from personal attacks and be prepared to hear the other person's point of view. "My understanding was that we were jointly responsible for this project," you might say to a co-worker who has claimed credit for your work. "I was surprised when you omitted my name from the final version."
If you're campaigning for a specific result, such as a raise or a promotion, ask what you need to do before that can happen, and agree on a reasonable deadline. "As you know, I have not had a raise in two years," you could say to the boss, summarizing the contributions you have made during that time. "What should I do to improve my performance and be considered for an increase? Can we meet again in three months to discuss how I'm doing?"
The more suggestions and solutions you're prepared to offer, the more satisfied you're likely to be with the result. And the less cause you may have for future complaints.
Deborah Jacobs, a business writer specializing in legal topics, regularly contributes to the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Forbes and Newsweek. Write to her c/o Chronicle Features, 870 Market St., Suite 1011, San Francisco, Calif. 94102. Please include your name, address and telephone number.