There are several different reasons why one carries out a search for a new job. Some people are simply looking for a new career or adventure. These people are under no pressure to find employment. However, others are searching for jobs due to necessity. These people need a job and have often undergone devastating circumstances or a personal crisis. Factors such as divorce, job loss, or moving to a new location can place those looking for careers in an undesirable position.

As if the rat race of looking for a job is not stressful enough, looking for work after or during a personal crisis is even more traumatic. In many cases, it is hard to conduct a calm and collective interview when you are focusing on or worrying about a personal area of your life. Accepting rejection is even more disturbing when you are already feeling down or negative toward yourself.

When facing hard times plus looking for work, there are a few things to keep in mind to help make the search in careers a little more successful. First, evaluate your state of mind before beginning the day’s search. Unless you are scheduled for an interview, do not attempt to talk with a potential employer when you are upset. Never go into an office or place of business to look for work after you have been crying or arguing with another. If you are upset, consider taking a walk or driving around for a few moments by yourself to gather yourself and your thoughts.

A personal crisis often leads to sleepless nights. In most cases, the lack of sleep takes a strong toll on people. Make sure that you are as fresh and alert as possible for your job hunt. Carry out measures such as drinking caffeine, splashing water on your face, and using cool packs on puffy eyes to appear well rested. Always review and rehearse what you plan to say when you arrive. The more your practice, the less likely you are to make a major mistake during an interview.

It is also important to consider the type of job that you are looking for obtaining. If you are undergoing a personal crisis during the job search, it is likely that the stress will not leave as soon as you receive a job. Therefore, you need to find a job that will not add to your already hard situation. For example if you are dealing with an extremely sick family member, discuss sick days and potential work at home opportunities with a future employer. If you have suffered from the loss of a child, it is likely not a good idea to look for a job that involves children. Try to think of a career that will help take your mind off of your personal problems.

If you are forced to look for a job, you are already encountering a stressful situation. However, when a personal crisis accompanies that search, the stress is doubled. The most important thing to remember is that the more you can separate your professional life and personal life the better. Do not accept calls from an ex or other possible irritate while you are on the search. Allow your job looking time to be your own time to seclude yourself from anything except focusing on your new career.

About the Author: A. Harrison Barnes is the founder and CEO of CareerMission, the parent company of more than 90 job-search websites, employment services, recruiting firms and student loan companies. CareerMission (originally Juriscape) employs several hundred employees in 14 offices throughout the United States, Asia, and Europe. These companies were literally started from Harrison’s garage several years ago after Harrison quit his job.

Harrison resides in Malibu, California. He is a sought-after career advice guru and writes articles relating to the legal community. Harrison is an active philanthropist and advocate for people reaching their full potential in their careers. Given his passion for job seekers and them reaching their full ability, Harrison recently started offering a limited number of coaching engagements to job seekers.