Editor’s note: This is a guest post from Jerry Roberts of CareerJolt.net.

Creating a solid working relationship with a difficult supervisor is possible but not necessarily easy.

Trying to write a definitive blog post about how to handle a tough boss is a difficult task. A lot of big books have been published on this topic and the issue is as contentious today as ever.

That said, I’ll guide you on a brief journey that will reveal a set of strategies which have worked for others in providing some relief, and a path to progress. Before we venture toward that solution we need to deal with a couple of things.

Strategy is more useful than emotion
Calling your boss a monster and blaming him for all that is wrong with your life may be recreational and even therapeutic, but it does nothing to improve your situation. Only clear-headed strategy and a defined set of tactics will do that.

Should you stay?
In my nearly 15 years of dealing with workplace issues I’ve had a number of people complain about their boss, but rarely has it come to the point where a worker is completely distraught and feeling trapped. If that’s where you are my initial advice is to change jobs.

I understand if your present financial circumstances make it impossible to leave your current position, but you can certainly start the planning process. If your job is ruining your life it’s not worth hanging onto. Making less money may be a hardship at the beginning of such a change, but eventually you’ll replace the lost earnings and be happier.

It should go without saying that if your boss is guilty of sexual misconduct or has made you a target of continual psychological cruelty, you need to get out of there or report him to his superiors. Obviously, this doesn’t include criticizing you for repeatedly coming in late or saying that your work isn’t any good.

Okay, now it’s time to get our head around a few key points that will help us as we move forward. (more…)