Oh my god have got a job interview at last, how badly are the following things going to count against me?

[LittleMyDancing]

Have finally finally finally got an interview for a job I REALLY want - good money, not too far away, good organisation, fab job etc etc

So I have all the right experience, I think, but how bad are these things:

• it's advertised as full time but I want to work 4 days a week max (it's a govt organisation, are they worse or better about these things?)
• I'm 11 weeks pg - oooops! showing a little bit, but can probably get away with being a bit fat for interview

I probably would work f/t if pushed, as it would only be until the baby came in April, and then I'd try and negotiate p/t after that when they've decided they love me (this WILL happen, it WILL, I must believe it)

Am I being hopelessly optimistic to even think I'll get this?

[ilovemydog]

Tricky - are you wondering whether or not you should tell them you are pregnant? or have you already made up your mind?

[noonki]

depends which govt org -

I work for the council and they are dead flexible but tends to be once you work there

you could apply for job and then request 4 days,

as for preggers - a team leader admitted to me only yesterday that had I applied for another job when up duff they would have given it to someone else as otherwise they will have to readvertise in a few months

but I think by law you don't have to disclose until 24 weeks ? to employers anyway - not sure though

good luck !

[LittleMyDancing]

No, have already covered whether to tell them about baby on this thread so have decided not to tell them, certainly at first interview and maybe not at all until I start.

am just trying not to get hopes up, I guess. have not had a good time trying to get a job lately, have been looking since March

[ilovemydog]

I have a few friends work for local government and it's been really easy for them to move to flexible hours.

[lisad123]

i wouldnt think it would be that bad. I have done it twice and both times, i ask this after they have offered me the job. If they like you that much, it wont matter. I work for gov too, and they are flexible

[LittleMyDancing]

Well not only have I got an interview, but I'm mentioned in the MN RoundUp today! Must be my lucky day

Keeping everything crossed that it all goes well next week.

[LittleMyDancing]

thank you for kind words, good to know flexible working can and does happen!

[wannaBe]

depends what government organization. On the whole they are more flexible than the private sector, but if they're specifically advertising for full time and you want part time then presumably they could revoke a job offer if you then start asking for this?

Iirc don't you have to have worked for a company for 26 weeks by your 15th week of pregnancy to qualify for maternity leave?

I'll be honest, I wouldn't employ someone who was pregnant.

[PerkinWarbeck]

I have recently been offered 2 council jobs (ooh, get me), both of which were advertised as full-time posts. In each case I requested to work 3 days - one agreed, the other suggested 3 days in the office plus half a day at home.

So I would ask after you've wowed them at the interview .

If you are also prepared to work full-time, do let them know that you'll do so if they can't accommodate your preferences.

[LittleMyDancing]

well if I ask for part time and they say no, then I can either say 'ok I'll work full time' or decide not to take the job - I'm assuming they can't withdraw the offer just for me asking?

I won't qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay, I know that, but everyone has the right to 39 weeks Maternity Leave - I'll get MA from the gov't instead (not as much money, will have to save like mad).

and as for not employing someone who's pregnant - isn't that discrimination? But I know what you mean, that's why I'm not going to tell them.

[LittleMyDancing]

Thanks Perkin, good to hear from people that it's worked out for!

and good advice about saying I will work f/t if need be, thanks.