Whether after a long period of unemployment or searching for a better position, the job search process can be shockingly emotional. We're not trained psychologists, so we won't speculate about the deep roots of your fear of cover letters or resistance to creating a new resume, but our experience has shown that we do weird stuff during the process; weird meaning totally counterproductive to success. Obviously, you need to deal with yourself at some point, but, we've got some (hopefully) helpful suggestions for utilizing your resources to land you that fabulous gig.

The least helpful thing you can do for yourself is grind away alone. It doesn't take long to lose perspective and feel defeated. Get out of your own way by working your resources.

First, assess your resources. Make a list of a few friends or colleagues who are strong in applicable areas like writing, organizing, marketing, and design. If you have access to a school career counselor or an internal HR rep, put them down too. There are multiple aspects to creating strong presentation materials (resume, cover letter, etc.) and it's helpful to get input from a number of perspectives. Why make a list? As a rule of thumb, most people have trouble doing their best work for themselves. The practical implication is that you may be the world's best writer and still write a pretty ineffective cover letter for yourself.

Write this resource list down. We're not kidding. Mental lists will likely end up costing you more time and energy. Putting this information down on paper will (a) trigger your memory about someone you'd forgotten (b) help you move on quickly to another person if someone is too tied up to help and (c) save you from the agony of trying to remember who you thought of last time. Make a spreadsheet if you want, but commit this information to somewhere besides your slippery memory. Pretending you don't need to is just counterproductive bravado.

Ask nicely and don't be shy about bribery. This isn't about slipping $5 into security's pocket; it's about putting drinks or dinner or maybe laundry on the table. You may be surprised by how many people are willing to help you if you just ask. However, if you know that a particular person is exactly who you need, then sweeten the pot up front. There's nothing wrong with a pretty please with a cherry on top. Everyone is busy with their own lives and sometimes your request will come at a bad time. No one hates you. If you get a no, say thanks graciously and keep moving down your list.

Note I: Making specific requests can be more helpful for both you and your knight in shining armor. Ask an editor to check your grammar and a marketer to look over your diction. Your graphic designer friend can help you with formatting (and maybe even a logo). Keep the focus of the project narrow and it will feel more do-able for both of you.

Note II: Bartering can also be highly effective. Say nice things in a professional way about your friend or colleague. Have them do the same for you. Voila! Lower stress cover letter. Make sure to supply your partner with your resume and the job description so he/she can tailor the letter for the position. You may be very pleasantly surprised to read someone else's take on you.

Getting multiple takes on your materials may get a bit confusing if you get conflicting advice, but don't sweat it. You'll probably have more than one opportunity to try out different versions (and if you get the first job, then go you!) so take a few chances.

Good luck!