Is it Ok to ask for alternative interview time due to childcare issues?

[BornToFolk]

I've been applying for jobs and I've finally got an interview! However, it's on a Friday and I don't normally work on Fridays but am at home with DS.

I can probably sort something out if necessary but would prefer not to have to. DS has swimming lessons on a Friday morning that we'd have to miss. Also, as I'm currently under risk of redundancy I can take reasonable time of work for interviews with no need for annual leave or lying about doctor's appointments so any other day of the week would suit me much better.

However, I don't really want to come across as difficult before I've even had the interview. What should I do?

Also, I did the application on line and although I can access my application form, I can't get to the job description any more as the closing date as passed and I stupidly did not print it. It's OK to ask them to email it to me, isn't it?

I haven't been for an interview for years! I'm all of a fluster!

Personally I would go on Friday, it shows you are keen and flexible.

As a busy employer I would expect a candidate to move things round to suit ME, not the other way round.

If you really can't go then you need to think of a very good excuse which does not hint at any ill health/ childcare/ family issues as this will put an employer off employing you.

I would go on the Friday too, unless you absolutely can't. It is often difficult to get all the managers etc necessary together for interview so the time is booked in advance. I think the fact that you aren't prepared to be flexible now may give the impression that you aren't really committed to the job.
Once I was offered interview but could not attend due to holiday, that was the end of the process, if i couldn't attend that date then there would be no interview.
I would email and ask for the job description, I think it would look better than being unprepared at interview.

Good Luck

You don't want their first impression of you to be that you are someone who is inflexible, unavailable and lacking in commitment, so unless absolutely necessary, go on the day required.

yes fine to email for job description.

I agree with Flowery.

Have they advertised this job part time, or is it something you are hoping to negotiate (assuming you're not changing to full time).

Thanks for your responses. I thought that's what people would say! It's an inconvience that it's a Friday but I'll get over it.

It's a part time role, 0.8 FTE which is what I do now so perfect in some ways but not as much pay as I'm on now. Still, with redunancy looming, it's not to be sniffed at!

Are suits still the done thing for interviews or can I get away with smart trousers and blouse? It's an admin/secretarial role in an academic environment.

I work in an admin role at a University and yes, people come to interviews in suits.

Once they're in though it's mainly smart casual for us; told this to the Temp who turned up in a suit and tie the other week

A temp in a suit and tie?! You must use a better agency than use

Right, suit shopping and interview prep next week then...

Thanks for the help, everyone.