There were voluminous researches done to look upon the nature of grievance system practised in the workplace. But, little was seen to discuss qualitatively in terms of its processes and the characteristics of a grievance system itself. The objective of this paper is to delve into the grievance process particularly in term of its initial filing process and the characteristics of its effectiveness as perceived by 8 leaders who are the chairmen/presidents of trade unions in Johore. A qualitative study was employed with cross case analysis was undertaken in order to analyse the data. Many participants perceived that no formality is needed in the initial grievance filing. Some antecedents of an effective grievance system were confirmed except for a mediator/middleman who is seemed to be unnecessary during the grievance process.