Asking a potential new employer questions/ and if they'd be open to a 4 day week...

[MacmillanDo]

I've applied for a job I thought sounded really interesting. I didn't expect to get anywhere, but they've asked me for an initial short call (15 mins) to follow up - for them to ask any questions thrown up by my application and for me to ask any questions I might have about the company or the recruitment process.

I'm guessing it's a quick does your face fit moment.

What sorts of things can I ask that are helpful at this point?

And, really, when I applied I thought if I got anywhere I'd ask if they would be open to a 4 day week (they're a very progressive sounding company).

When is a good time to do this? This would really be my preference. I'm a transparent person, but equally, don't want to blot my copybook too early.

Your question makes no sense - honestly! If you want a four day week then ask at this stage... why would you let it get further without being clear about what you want as you wouldn't know if they were a good fit otherwise. If you need four and they won't consider then they aren't a good fit and you wouldn't want to work there would you?

Your chance to ‘interview ‘ them as well!
What did the advert say ? In my organisation we would say something along the lines of ‘ happy to discuss flexible working’ in all our adverts. If they don’t then it’s worth an ask, and of course what they say will depend on if it’s a dealbreaker for you after that if you want to move it forward.
good luck 😀

It depends if mot getting the 4 day week would be a deal breaker or not.
If not, I would ask in face to face interview if they consider it as it's easier to read body language and facial expressions and then react/ proceed accordingly.

However if the 4 day week is non negotiable then ask at this stage.

Would a 4 day week be a deal breaker? If yes, ask now. If no, ask later.

What I would ask at this stage is a general question around hours and flexible working.