To ask at interview...

[vic1981]

If it is possible to work less hours than those stated? For some background, I am looking to return to work after being off for 5 1/2 years with my DD and have seen a job that I am hopeful of at least making the interview stage. The hours would be 9-5, Monday to Fri in a school.

The issue is the location, it is in an area where although it is technically only 20 mins drive away, is in actuality about 1 hours drive due to traffic. (Not in rush hour either!) I can put my child in before/ and after school care, without a problem in the mornings, but
am concerned that I would not make it back before 6pm, at which point a late fee fine would be payable.

It is not well paid, (approx £15,000) but I would really like to apply for it. However, I am concerned about the journey, I would not want the stress of worrying about being late doing the pick up for my daughter every day.

Should I reach the interview stage, do you think it would be really cheeky to ask if it is possible to finish at 4.30pm in order to address this issue?

What's the distance from the pick up point to the job? Could you leave your car there and continue by bicycle or scooter so as not to be stuck in any traffic?

Fed not at interview! It's bad but I know some of my managers would label you as 'high maintenance' and you wouldn't get a look in - not saying it's right but it's a reality sadly.

Def not Fed!

You don't ask, you don't get. So ask!

I asked at interview whether flexible working was an option. I didn't want to waste anyone's time....I'm a single mum and have to pick up my DD from after school club at 6pm, no fail. No point going to second interview if flexi working not an option. It worked for me. They were surprised when I asked for 8.30-5 instead of 9-5.30.They thought I was going to ask for all kinds of different hours on different days. You don't ask, you don't get!

I would expect it to be brought up at interview, you are offered a chance to ask questions "how flexible is..." is exactly the sort of question I would want asked, but I obviously would only hold not bringing it up if it was the sort of senior role where such negotiation would be part of the resulting role.. So only asking during the post interview negotiation would be fine for most positions.

Well, have been offered an interview! Wish me luck!