Actually before I changed jobs, I had a really good boss. He was my boss 4 out of my 5 years with Cordis and we've developed a sort of understanding and trust. When I spoke, I knew he would take me seriously even though I was only an Engineer II. I also liked how he doesn't micromanage me and trusts me to work on my own time using my methods. There was never any pressure not to take vacation or work more than 40 hours a week. He and his wife actually attended my wedding!
When I changed jobs, I was aware that I may be in with a lesser relationship with my new boss. Not that I had a lot to worry about because my current boss used to work for Cordis and he recruited me to join Cardiva. It's just that we've never worked directly with each other before so I'm sort of starting over. And it's true, I don't have the same relationship with him as my previous boss but we still have a pretty good relationship.
I think having a boss be your sponsor and advocate is so important in the workplace. People sort of flounder and fall through the cracks when they have no sponsor. Not to mention people who actually have mean or cruel bosses who drive them like slaves!
So today I'm really thankful that I have kind bosses who treat me like a human being and appreciates my work.