Part Time Job Interview Questions and How to Answer

Many job interviews are largely similar. The same goes for part time job interview questions. The questions take the same model, and some are repeated everywhere while others are just rephrased. A part-time job interview, however,  is unique and different at most levels. Employers are not just looking for anyone. They are looking for people who have the ability to combine two jobs or combine a part-time job with other commitments such as studying or parenting. The employer will always do thorough research before even selecting a candidate for an interview. So what are part-time job interview questions, and how should you respond to them?

Part-time jobs entail working for fewer hours and mostly under very little supervision. The employer will try to create an understanding or a special relationship with the potential employee as early as during the interview.

Expect very personal complicated questions with some even questioning your ability. It is therefore, very necessary to prepare adequately. This includes knowing the questions to expect and the answers you should give.

Questions to expect during a part-time job interview and their answers

1. Why do you need a part-time job?

With this question, the employer is trying to assess your commitment towards the job.  The employer is already aware that you have other commitments and will want to get an employee capable of giving the necessary attention to the job. The employer also wants to know whether you can be relied upon for a long period and you, will not abandon them when your situation changes.

When faced with this question, some people tend to give the obvious reason of financial constraints. While this might be a good, honest answer, it might give the wrong idea or create the wrong impression with the interviewer. The good answer is usually that you are seeking an extra challenge in your professional life. Give the employer the idea and belief that the reason for pursuing the job is chiefly professional and not propelled by other matters. This will create confidence with the employer.

2. What is the status of your current job?

If you are employed, the employer will want to know how you are performing in your current job.  Some employers are trying to asses on the character of the applicant. There are applicants with problems in their current jobs. The interviewers are cautious not to transfer the problems to their jobs. Other employees, however, are trying to assess whether the applicant has the potential to be a full-time employee. When answering this question, it is always advisable to answer honestly. Do not make the common mistake of painting your current employer in a bad light no matter how bad they are. Try to build a relationship with your potential employer by stating at least something positive about your current job. Even when pushed with leading questions suggesting that the interviewer is already aware of the problems at your current workplace give a positive answer such as:

‘I am committed to my other job, and I like it regardless of the few common problems.” This shows that you are loyal to your current employer, and the potential part-time employer should not have any concern about how trustworthy you can be.’

3. How will you balance your job with the other commitments you have?

This is a very straight forward question. When answering it, give a detailed explanation of your schedule. Let the interviewer know that you can handle the job with other commitments. The interviewer is trying to understand whether your job will inconvenience the part-time job if you are hired. Be very careful and avoid giving any information that might show the possibility of being inconvenienced. If you are, for example, a mother, let the employer know you have the ability to set time for the part-time job away from parenting without any inconvenience.

4. How long do you think you can work in this setup?

With this question, the interviewer is trying to assess how reliable you are. Before going for the interview, always research on the duration the part-time job will last. This will help you in answering this question. You do not want to give an answer that creates a negative impression on how you are not committed to the job. If the job will take a longer duration, it is always advisable to give an answer that inspires confidence.

5. Would you consider working full time?

Here the employer is trying to test your ambition or your loyalty. If you are already employed elsewhere, this is a very tricky question.  You don’t want to look unreliable since you are ready to leave your current employer, but at the same time, you don’t want to look as if you are not committed to the part-time job. It is very important, to be honest, but not specific. Give an answer like,” I am currently committed and enjoying my other job. I am also looking forward to undertaking this new challenge. Nobody knows what the future holds but if the opportunity arises and it is possible to take up the job I don’t see why not.”

If you do not have another job, it is always advisable to answer in the affirmative. This inspires confidence in you from the interviewer, especially if the job is long term.

6. What is your preferred schedule and remuneration?

This is another straight forward question, and the answer should also be straightforward. While answering this, make sure you give the details truthfully with good reasons. Always research about the workplace and the employer before you go for the interview. It will help you to give acceptable answers. Give reasons as to why your schedule should operate in a particular way without giving a hint of inconvenience from the other commitments.

In the case of salary and remuneration, it is advisable to show a carefully calculated reason for the working hours and the amount of work. As stated earlier, a part-time job requires complete trust from the employer since you are to combine two or more commitments. It is advisable sometimes to give examples when answering these questions just to elaborate further and create a relationship between you and the potential employer.

Job Interview Topics – Common Job Interview Questions & Answers

Below you can find a list of common job interview topics. Each link will direct you to an article regarding the specific topics that discuss commonly asked interview questions. Furthermore, each article discusses why the interviewer asks these questions and how you answer them!

1. Accomplishments
2. Adaptability
3. Admission
4. Behavioral
5. Career Change
6. Career Goals
7. Communication
8. Competency
9. Conflict Resolution
10. Creative Thinking
11. Cultural Fit
12. Customer Service
13. Direct
14. Experience
15. Government
16. Graduate
17. Growth Potential
18. Honesty & Integrity
19. Illegal
20. Inappropriate
21. Job Satisfaction
22. Leadership
23. Management
24. Entry-Level & No experience
25. Performance-Based
26. Personal
27. Prioritization & Time Management
28. Problem-solving
29. Salary
30. Situational & Scenario-based
31. Stress Management
32. Teamwork
33. Telephone Interview
34. Tough
35. Uncomfortable
36. Work Ethic