THIS week's pilot scheme session to help those made unemployed by redundancy back into work has taken a different form to previous sessions as our resident career expert turned the focus to interviews.

With both Anthony and Michael* unable to take part, career development consultant, Alison Spencer, delivered an interactive one-on-one session for Anna* and tackled some of the main issues felt by those - employed or not - heading into the dreaded interview room.

Anna's nerves for the cover letter were eased as Alison explained it should read like a key achievement's list rather than a play-by-play of one's work experience - that's what a CV is for, she emphasised.

When it comes to interview's the career author explained preparedness is key and any job seeker should tackle the sit down like an exam by revising beforehand.

"You should always prepare for interviews before you go - like with an exam. The more you prepare for it the easier it is because you know it and it's less of a panic when you get in the room," Alison said.

And when she says prepare, she means prepare.

Alison reiterated it's vital to go over everything before the big day - from the companies ethical policies to back up transport plans in case unforeseeable issues arise.

She says: "I have this fear of being late for anything so I always check bus routes, traffic updates, weather conditions - anything really - that can cause issues for getting there on time.

"You should always turn up half an hour beforehand, even if it means you need to go to the cafe round the corner for a bit.

"And make sure you know exactly where you're going. It's might sound simple but so many people, including me, make that mistake at some point."

But, its once a job seeker enters the room the work really begins and the key, Alison says, is confidence.

"People pick up more from your body language than your words - it's a fact - so do some breathing exercises such as sets of four slow, deep breathes the morning of and relax yourself.

"Make sure you know what you're talking about, be simple and direct, and when it comes to questions like 'what do you know about the company' make sure not regurgitate the 'about' section of their website.

"Look up their ethics, their corporate social responsibility and discuss that instead."

As for the pesky - and sometimes downright awkward questions - Alison has an answer for those too.

She added: "If you're asked why you want to work there, talk about their ethics as a reason.

"If you're asked where do you see yourself in five years, say progressing within the company.

"If they haven't told you an salary details, don't ask. Wait until you have been offered the job then ask. That gives you enough time to decide whether or not to take it.

"We've all been in an interview where we this 'did you really just ask me that' but no matter what they ask or what they say: don't panic, focus and you'll be fine."

*Two of our candidates have chosen to remain anonymous. Their names and some personal information have been changed to protect their identities.