veryone complains about his or her boss. Yes, even you. Even if you haven't verbalized your thoughts, you've probably felt that your boss could be a little more generous with praise or slightly more in tune with his staff.

As a subordinate, it's too easy to judge your boss's actions and assume you know what he thinks and feels. Not only is this unfair, but according to a recent survey conducted by the recruitment Web site, CareerBuilder.com, judging your boss could hinder your ability to advance in your company.

According to CareerBuilder's survey, "The Boss: 2004," 63% of workers with unsatisfactory relationships with their bosses feel there are few opportunities to climb the company ladder.

The survey also found that the quality of the boss-subordinate relationship impacts job security and stress. Thirty-nine percent of workers with unsatisfactory boss relationships do not feel that they have job security, and 56% indicate that they work under a great deal of stress.

Therefore, to be fair to your boss, and for the good of your career, examine how and why you criticize him. Review the following list, and see if any of these thoughts seem familiar. If so, see what you can do to give your boss a just assessment and improve your superior-subordinate relationship.

"He has no idea how hard my job is. I would like to see him try to do what I do."

Are you sure he's that far out of the loop? If so, how did he get hired as your boss? If you don't know, ask. Don't be so quick to assume that he's out of touch. Ask him to review your performance and offer suggestions for ways you can improve. You could learn that he already knows your job is difficult, and he might give you some constructive tips for doing it even better.

"What exactly does he do?"

Just because your boss's office is empty doesn't mean he's off enjoying a three-hour lunch. In fact, if he is at lunch, it's probably a working lunch and he would rather be at the office getting work done.

Have you made an effort to find out what your boss does? Offer to help him with his projects. Make sure he knows you're interested in a future with the company and would like to hear about the organization's goals and plans.

"We are out here doing all the work, and he gets all the glory."

Are you sure your boss receives all the kudos? He could be singing your praises to his superiors when you aren't around to hear. Talk with him about your efforts and the fact that you feel under appreciated. Most likely he values your hard work and simply hasn't taken the time to let you know.

"Sure, give me another task. I only have a to-do list a mile long already."

You are not your boss's only responsibility, so there's a chance that he's forgotten what else is on your list of assignments. Or, maybe he incorrectly assumed that you've already completed something.

Take this opportunity to sit down together, go over your list of projects and prioritize. He will see that you have a heavy workload, and you will learn what projects are important to him.

"He changes things just because he likes it better, not because my version is wrong."

Many times, there are a variety of ways to tackle a problem, and none is more correct than another. It's often a matter of personal opinion. If your boss reviews your work and makes changes based solely on preference, he might not be the control freak you think he is. He might believe that you want or need his help.

Have you demonstrated that you are capable of completing the task alone? Point out that neither version is wrong, and show him why you did it your way. If you are able to defend your work, he will likely give you more freedom.

"I can do 100 things correctly, but he will only point out the one mistake I made."

If you make a mistake, resist the urge to blame others or make excuses. Accept the fact that you erred, and come up with an action plan to make it right. Ask where you need to improve.

At the same time, draw attention to the things you do correctly and communicate to your boss that you are better motivated by positive reinforcement rather than negative feedback.

"Sure, he can take a two-week vacation; we're the ones doing all the work."

Ideally, we all spend our time in the trenches. With hard work and dedication, we hope to one day be the boss and rely on those we trust to hold down the fort while we take a vacation.

Don't resent your boss for working hard and building a successful career. Put in your dues now so you can cash them in when your time comes. And don't begrudge your boss for enjoying the fruits of his labor.

Everyone, bosses and employees alike, can improve their communication and management skills. Next time you want to be critical of your boss, don't.

Resist the urge to judge, as it does nothing to help the situation and, in fact, can damage your career. Instead, talk to your boss, ask for encouragement and facilitate open communication.

Be fair to yourself, your boss and your job. It can only help your relationship and your career.