Notice period

[gossipgoat]

I had an interview 2 weeks ago for a job that I would really like.
I have received feedback today that interview went very well, the only concern is my notice period which is 8 weeks. They have asked if this can reduced to even just 6 weeks.
This is not a senior position, it is more a backwards step to gain more experience in a different department.
Obviously without a job offer I can't mention this to my current work as I may not even get an offer!
What do I say to the company that I interview for without pulling myself from the running?

Do you have any holiday to use up? Any option to buy leave? You need a firm offer in writing and then say you will do all you can to join asap.
Often firms will let people go early as they've already mentally checked out. The new firm has been through the recruitment process and selected you so they should be prepared to wait.

I've always negotiated down my notice period (with an offer in place). Last time I went from 12 to 4 weeks, saved them money to not have to put me on gardening leave.

You may be able to negotiate but the new job will surely understand you cannot do that without an offer in writing.

I'd just say you are happy to try to negotiate after receiving an offer

This is very unusual OP. If they like you enough to employ you, surely they can wait an extra two weeks. It's not normal to give notice at your current job until you're happy with the contract for your new role.

If you want the new job, I'd reply to say that once you've received your formal offer and contract you'll give notice at your current employer. You will try to negotiate a shorter notice period, but can't guarantee it as it's a matter for your current employer.

It would be a bit of a warning sign that they've asked this tbh - you aren't in control of whether your current employer will hold you to your full notice period and there's no way you could legitimately answer their questions at this point.
A good future employer is one who will wait for you because you are the right candidate.

Thanks all for the advice, have went back to say without a written offer I can't advise - doubtful my current work will allow me to reduce my leave, but keeping my fingers crossed for an offer!

I don’t really see what difference a written offer would make. They put it in writing, you hand in your notice and ask to reduce notice period, employer says no, new employer retracts offer.

I don’t really like the sound of an employer that has no respect for contractual terms, this is a red flag for me.