Going for job interviews

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Byrned

455 posts

Ultimate Geek
+1 received by user: 27

#30363 5-Feb-2009 14:37

I've recently started looking for a new job (not the best time, I know, but if you're not happy...)

My question is can my current employer stop me from attending a job interview during working hours (I don't think I've ever had a prospective employer say they'll meet me after work).

I remember reading something somewhere but I can't find it now. I think it basically said they can't stop me, but I won't be paid for the time.

Can anyone point me at the relevant info.

Cheers

brentbart

137 posts

Master Geek
Inactive user

#194288 5-Feb-2009 15:12

Of course they can, you are paid to be at work.

They can't stop you having one in an agreed break, such as your lunch break.

Either take the time in lieu (ie, agree to make it up at a later time, or before hand) or take a half day annual leave.

euanandrews

1528 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

#194294 5-Feb-2009 15:35

Every employer is different...some are helpfull, some are not...it can depend alot on your current relationship with your current employer.

Legally, its quite simple...they can't stop you going for interviews, but you won't get paid for time away from rostered work...
That said, your employer must be advised off any time required to take off work in the usual fashion, otherwise you run the risk of being disciplined/fired for not being at work when rostered.

So, its simple, try to make appointments for your work breaks, or before or after work...
Interviewing employers will understand and generally will accomodate you if you let them know your circumstances, as many other interviewees are in the same position, and the old rule, that employers prefer a currently employed worker rather than an unemployed one, still stands.

Something else you should consider, is letting your current employer know your plans...
This is professional curtisy, and allows them to make the necessary plans...
In return hopefully (but not always) the employer will return that curtisy by being as helpfull and flexible as possible during this transistion, and allow you the time you need for these interviews.
If you say nothing, and they find out through the grapevine, they may be annoyed and make things harder for you, not allowing any time off on purpose.

I hope that helps, good luck.

Byrned

455 posts

Ultimate Geek
+1 received by user: 27

#194297 5-Feb-2009 15:41

Something else you should consider, is letting your current employer know your plans...

I'm planning on doing this on Monday - and it could go either way at this stage, nice or nasty! I've got a feeling it'll be the former, but just want to be prepared. The way I see it as long as I give them notice that I have an interview in say 3 days from now, at xx time then it should be fine.