Applying for a job advertised as full-time, and asking to do it part-time

[melpomene]

I've just seen a job advertised which would be great for me, but it's full-time and I only want to work part-time (eg 3 days per week). So I'm wondering whether to ask them if they would consider part-time or job-share. If so, would it be better to:
(A) phone/email before applying, to ask this?
(B) apply as normal, then say at interview that I would like to do part-time (if I get an interview)?
(C) apply as normal, then if they offer me the job say I want to do it part-time?

A few years ago in my previous job when I was involved with recruiting a new member of staff we had a candidate who took option C, and she was given the job on a part time basis and the other half of the job was re-advertised. But I can see how that tactic could be annoying for employers, and potentially a waste of everyone's time.

I've checked the regulations about flexible working, but they apply only when you've been with an employer for 26 weeks so they wouldn't be obliged to consider my request to go part time. However, IMO there's no reason why this job couldn't be done part time or on a job share.

[ChippyMinton]

similar question here

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

I don't know what the recommended advice would be, but last time I intended to do b, so that I could sell myself first, and then ask for part time once they'd decided they liked me.

so I didn't mention it at first interview, intending to do it at second interview. Then they didn't have a second interview, but called up and offered me the job - so I had to do c.

they were good about it, after all, they're always going to have a second favourite candidate as people turn down jobs for all sort of reasons, so they could have just told me to naff off. As it is, they let me work reduced hours, which was great.

good luck!

[Lizzzombie]

I recently applied for a FT job knowing I can only do PT. I mentioned DS in covering letter and they rang to ask if I was after a PT or FT position. I told them I could only do PT but really wanted the job so if they found a job share to consider me. They said they needed FT but appreciated my honesty early on and would keep me on file if anything came up as they liked my cv.
HTH x

[flowerybeanbag]

Wait until at least second interview, so you've already wowed them, they are already very interested in you and have been impressed by you.

Also depends how part time and how you want to work it. If it's a full time job but you want to do, say, 4 shorter days and one day at home and think you can manage the whole job, thats one thing. If what you essentially want is half a job, then you might be best looking for a job share partner.

Also depends on what the job is and how easy you think it would be to adjust how it's done, and who the employer is, how open they are to family friendly working.

[slushpuppie]

Depends whom the employer is. If a family friendly employer then state on the application that you wish your application to be considered on a job share basis. I did this after having my first child and it so happened that another person in the same position had already requested job share so this worked out.

Good luck

[2Princess]

I applied for a job that was advertised a full time and when I sent my CV and covering letter to them I explained my situation, that I had a child and needed part time.

Got an interview and discussed it then, employer was happy to give me the job on this basis.

Though I have recently won an employment tibunal against this now ex-employer, as I was dismissed for taking time off to look after my daughter, won unfair dismissal and sex discrimination...and it was a law firm of all places!

Good luck and just go for it, you never know unless you try.