Picture it! You’ve finally found your dream job and you love everything about it…except for your boss. Maybe you drew the short straw and managed to land a boss that’s disorganized, disrespectful, or just downright distasteful. Should you throw in the towel and quit? Or should you find a way to manage and learn how to deal with a bad boss?

If you want to stay in your job (and chances are, in this economy, you do!) you’ll want to learn some ways to deal with a bad boss even when the two of you clash.

Dealing with a bad boss can be frustrating. It's tough to take orders or direction from a not-so-great manager. But there are ways to address your issues and concerns with your boss by communicating in a professional manner and finding a mentor within your organization whom you can rely on for help.

Communication is important for any type of relationship and a boss/subordinate relationship is no different. If the relationship between you and your boss is tense or downright abominable, talk to them first and let them know how you feel. Chances are, they may not be aware that you even have a problem with them.

Be specific in your statements and make sure you use specific examples. Always be professional in your meetings and while you should be assertive, try hard not to go on the defensive or be too aggressive. If your boss becomes defensive and points out any perceived flaws he may have of you, try to dialogue ways that you can work together on both of your issues.

Try to relax around your boss and don't take what they are saying or doing personally. Try to respect that person's position even if you don't respect them as a person. Remind yourself that they might be having a bad day (or week or month or year!) and may not know how to handle their own frustrations. Having compassion for your boss may help you to build a better relationship.

Keep a journal of your issues with your boss if they are harrassing you or doing things that are illegal. If he or she is out-of-line, write down the incident complete with date, location and anyone who might have witnessed the incident. Discuss these serious issues with your HR representative.

Keep in mind that you may only want to go to HR with very serious issues like those mentioned above. You may railroad your career by being seen as a complainer or whistle-blower if you go to HR with minor issues. Sometimes others don't see your boss the same way as you do. They may think he's a great guy and the problem might be with you. You may ruin your chances for advancement by complaining, so make sure you have a serious case before going to HR.

Consider finding a mentor within the company with whom you can ask advice and seek professional guidance. See if they can help you create a plan for dealing with a bad boss.

Start planning for your own professional future as well. Do what you can to build up your resume and keep your eyes peeled for jobs within the organization for which you may be qualified. If you love the company, chances are you can find another position in that company with a better boss.