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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Business

When is it best to mention flexible and part-time working?

A boy and a teacher
A reader is struggling with childcare and wants to work part time. Photograph: MBI/Alamy

On Friday and Monday we publish the problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Guardian Money supplement, so readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy's own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?

I have been offered an interview for a civil service post. The job advert stated they would consider a part-time appointment, job share, flexible working or full time. I would really like the job as this kind of work is rare in my region, and I don't want to put myself at a disadvantage compared to other candidates.

I currently look after my son full time. Childcare is difficult to find in my area and ideally, if I was offered the position, I would like to work part time to begin with and then full time when my son is older. He is nearly four now.

But I don't know when to broach the subject of hours. Should I mention it at interview or wait until I am offered a position? There are three identical posts available. I don't know how many people are being interviewed, but I do know they had a lot of applicants.

• For Jeremy's and readers' advice on a work issue, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@guardian.co.uk. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or reply personally.

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