Do you notice that there is a disconnect between what you and your peers see, hear, and think -- and what's really going on in the company? If so, you'll find it virtually impossible to convince your boss or other senior leaders that the organization must change to neutralize a serious challenge, such as growing dissatisfaction among key customers or employee disengagement.  Why? Because the full story isn't readily apparent or visible.  We have seen this recently with some of the big boys on Wall Street.  Executives were and are getting large sums of money, while others are being laid off by the 1,000's.  Do what you can to make this disconnect as transparent possible with open dialogue with your immediate management team. It can only help you!

In these ultra-stressful times, toxic bosses are on the rise. Whether screamers or never-satisfied micromanagers, they can poison entire organizations, because toxic emotions are contagious. When our toxic boss goes on a rampage, we become anxious, negative, and destructive. We then spread dissonance to the people looking to us for inspiration and guidance.

To stop the madness, don't take your toxic boss's attacks personally. Remind yourself that his anger, meanness, or cynicism is about him, not you. And check your (natural) desire to sabotage his work or otherwise get revenge. If you give in to such urges, you'll perpetuate the problem. Instead, tap into your personal power and resilience -- you know your talent and your value, so focus on delivering work that makes you proud.

As a colleague once said to me, cream always rises to the top. And you are the cream!

Almost half of U.S. workers do not respect their boss and only half believe they are competent, according to an online survey released on Friday.

The study by Randstad USA, a unit of the world's number two staffing company Randstad NV, found that the growing financial crisis has seen companies focusing more on their bottom line at the expense of relations with employees.

"Employees' professional development and morale should always be a priority for employers and especially in an economic slowdown when employees may feel additional burdens," said Randstad director Eric Buntin.

The Internet survey of 2,337 people also found only 43 percent think their boss is open to new ideas and only 47 percent were willing to work overtime to impress their boss and create more job security for themselves.

Less than 30 percent believed their bosses were fulfilling their roles as motivators, role models or mentors.

"When it comes to impressing the boss to create more job security during hard times of economic uncertainty, the survey indicates women are willing to work harder," Buntin said. "A healthy employee-employer relationship greatly contributes to an overall positive workplace attitude."

The survey was carried out by Harris Interactive. Data was weighted to be representative of the total U.S. population based on region, age within gender, education, household, income, and race.

If you need additional support and motivation during your professional transitions, let me know, I'd be happy to partner with you! Anissa