Most workers seem to view their bosses in a positive light, but management relationships can still be improved. Sixty-five percent of workers, according to a survey by Adecco USA that questioned 1,152 employees, say their boss looks out for them and their work goals. And 77 percent of workers agree with their manager's current salary, despite the sluggish economy.

"This latest Adecco USA Workplace Insights survey is quite refreshing and a positive indicator of the strength of American bosses in the midst of what is happening to our economy and work force," says Bernadette Kenny, chief career officer and senior vice president of human resources.

Management relationships can suffer in stressful times. Kenny says it is important for employees and managers to openly communicate about the business atmosphere and its impact on the workers. Discussions may help keep a positive environment for both workers and bosses. With the currently slow economy, Kenny recommends "doubling efforts in communication."

Twenty-nine percent of workers would refer to their boss as a "friend," rather than a mentor, confidant, parental figure, enemy or rival. This result seems to illustrate confusion between one's personal and professional life.

"The real relationship between a boss and a worker is neither friend nor mentor," says Kenny. "Bosses are bosses, and responsible for the day to day direction of the worker's efforts. Mentors are generally people providing coaching to a worker about a specific career goal. Friends are friends. It is important for workers to view their boss in a professional light and not rely on a boss's friendship."

Kenny provides recommendations for employees to create better management relationships:

— Be honest and discuss hardships with managers. Talk about issues before they turn into bigger problems.

— Respect your manager's position. Keep personal and professional lines separate in order to avoid uncomfortable circumstances.

— Maintain performance goals that correspond to company objectives.

Kenny also suggests tips for employers to better connect with their workers:

— Clearly discuss company goals and expectations.

— Be grateful for the contributions that workers make to the company. Support your employees and show you care when they succeed.

— Don't favor particular workers. Try to treat all employees equally.

For more information, visit www.adeccousa.com.

LEAVING THE BATTLEFIELDS FOR THE JOB MARKET

After finishing duty in the military, veterans may encounter an uphill challenge in the job market. Seventeen percent of veterans have spent more than six months finding a position after serving their military duty, according to a survey by CareerBuilder.com that questioned about 750 U.S. veterans.

Employers unable to comprehend how military skills can satisfy qualifications for civilian jobs serves as the biggest obstacle to job-searching veterans. Other hardships include lack of college degrees, a low amount of jobs in a specific area and little experience with interviewing.

Employers do look for certain qualities in veterans, even if veterans feel underqualified. Managers feel a veteran's skill to be part of a team is most important, followed by a veteran's obedience to work, leadership skills, respect and integrity and ability to perform under pressure.

"Employers value the diverse skill set that veterans can bring to their work force and how these workers can have a positive impact on their bottom lines," says Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources. "In fact, 20 percent of employers said that they will be actively recruiting veterans over the next 12 months to fill specific roles in fields such as IT, sales, management and engineering."

Haefner provides suggestions to veterans who are trying to move from the military to residential life:

— Communicate military skills in a civilian point of view in order to demonstrate your strengths. Online translators can help match your military background with corresponding civilian positions.

— Clearly explain your knowledge on your resume and cover letter in order for employers to better understand your skills.

— Don't focus on only a few industries. Look for positions in various sectors of the job market.

For more information, visit www.careerbuilder.com.

To find out more about Amy Winter and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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