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Self
Advocacy:
Step 5: Document
If
something is happening to you or has happened to you, writing it
down while it is fresh in your mind is a way of ensuring that you
don’t forget any details. Documenting can also be a form of
"proof" for others that your problem exists.
Also,
writing your complaint or problem on a piece of paper makes your
complaint seem more "official." In a perfect world, a
complaint you make on the telephone would be considered just as
important as one written. But usually a written complaint will get
more attention.
Another
advantage to writing a complaint is that it gives you additional
time to think things through, and organize your thoughts and arguments.
And for some people, especially those who tend to become quiet or
withdrawn when "put on the spot," writing a problem is
a good way to make sure you get heard.
Besides,
if you’ve ever had somebody tell you something they "heard
through the grapevine," you know that information that gets
passed along from person to person isn’t usually accurate.
Writing your complaint lets you be sure that the problem is always
told in your own words.
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