To not take the job?

[happyplace123]

I've been a SAHP for a couple of months after leaving my job. My friend/boss from a previous job runs a tearoom which is opening for summer soon.

She kept saying come to work for me etc, come and have a chat so I did. She basically said so you're happy to join us.. I felt really put on the spot so I was like yep ok.. she wants 2 days a week but I can only get childcare for 1 day, meaning I have to work 1 week day and 1 weekend day which isn't ideal for my school age children. It's above minimum wage so if it wasn't a childcare issue it would be ideal.

How do I tell her that I don't think I can take the job? She's looking forward to me starting

This is such a non issue. It’s nothing personal to her, you’ve got kids to consider? Call her and say “Hi friend, I really appreciate the offer and am flattered that you thought of me. Unfortunately it just won’t work-I only have childcare one day a week and don’t want to give up a weekend day with my older child. Thanks again for the offer, hope you find someone else suitable.” Simple as that.

Just say that on reflection, it doesn't actually work for you.

Be honest and say you've got childcare issues.

You don't want to work a weekend as you have limited time with your kids. That is a fair enough reason and one no-one should hold against a friend.

Apologise and say if that means you're not suitable for the post and thank her for her/his interest in you.

If there is something that can be done however then you'd love the opportunity.

Be clear and direct.