To ask about flexible working hours at an interview?

[lilyb84]

At my current job I work through lunch so I can fit in my 7-7.5 hour day and still do childcare drop offs and pick ups. I have an interview this week - is it appropriate to ask then about the employer's flexible working arrangements or is that something you bring up if you're offered the role?

I wouldn't be able to do the job if I didn't have some flexibility as I live and work in London and the commute is too long and unpredictable. It's an office job, so no shifts, 35 hours a week.

I've twice asked about working condensed hours at interview. One agreed to condensed hours one didn't, but both interviews resulted in job offers

Hello all... just an update! I was planning on leaving the question over flexible working until the (potential) offer stage but as it happened the interview went very positively and it felt appropriate to ask there and then. I asked more generally about hours and the general philosophy, then stated exactly what I do at my current role and they said that would be fine. In fact, the commute is shorter so I may not even need flexibility but it's good to know. They also mentioned that 'family always comes first' which I thought was a nice thing to hear from an organisation.

They then offered me the job on my journey home...! So thanks all for your advice, I'm glad I asked but could see that in a different, more corporate situation I would have held back until negotiation stage.

Good luck to those of you in similar positions, after today I would say go with your gut instinct!

That's great news lily, congratulations! Sounds like the role/company will be a perfect fit for your, and you for them.

I hope so Thanks! That's the first thing ticked off my new years resolution list nice and early...

Yay! Congratulations!

Great news. Well done you!

Brilliant, op! Congratulations!

Oooh, well done!

Have been watching this with interest because I will need to job hunt once number 2 is one or so (won't be possible to go back to current job once number 1 is at school).

That's great news Lily. Well done on getting the job!