How do you get your cranky boss to see your good side when you aren't even given a chance?

sometimes going head to head with the superior is the only way to impress them..

Do your job good and be pacient, dont react to their grumpiness. 

It's a good idea for you to have chocolate for yourself. :P (time for that dayly joke)

People who are grumppy have very low tolerance to stress. You have to show them that you get them clear and answer politely because you risk of being yelled at.  It helps when you tell them everything is going okay, smile and show respect. Believe me, anybody who show such self control will be recognized either by his fellow colleagues or the boss.

You wanna show them your good side? Try some of the following:

1. Outclass optimum Performance (Be Highly productive and efficient): When you're at the top of your game, no matter who makes what face doesn't matter. Your performance speaks for itself.

2. Undeniable Accomplishments: When your achieving your targets no matter what's thrown at you, the world applauds (sometimes silently)

3. Maintain a Positive Work Attitude and Exhibit extremely Professional Behavior.

4. Try to mellow down things between you and your boss: This can be done in numerous ways. Don't try to justify yourself too much. Exhibit your intentions through graceful and good positive attitude. Offer help where needed politely show "respect". Remember respectful behavior demands respect in return. Help them perform better by lending your services (This communicates to them that you are PART of their team and trying your best)

5. Never be cocky or Arrogant. Show off's are unimpressive.

6. Be a team player no matter what: Try to maintain good relationship with other employees and colleagues.

7. Become Essential for the business.

If nothing else works then hire Venera to take them out. In her words: She is a very "Dangerous" lady. (smiles) Just kidding!

Friend

In any organization there are two zones

First Zone- People work

Second Zone-People try to take credit

Try to be in the first zone there is less competition sooner or letter it will definitely recognize

All the best