How to answer interview questions about why working part time and a lower wage?
Asked by jumpycheese
As I have been desperate for work as been jobless for 6 months, I manged to get an interview with the shop in the village for a part time role. My previous jobs for the past 5 years have been full time. Then the last two are paid about 15% more per hour. I would like some advice on how to answer these without the interviewer thinking 'I'm bored and need money'.

Best Answer:
You don't need to explain to them what your past wages were, unless you give it to them. Tell them that you are interested in this position with the hopes of one day going full time if it is offered. In the meantime keep looking and this will give you an opportunity to look for another full time job, while you are working part time. Make the best of it while you can. Good luck! :-)

You be honest and tell them that given your current situation you need a job and if the salary is lower, you are willing to accept that. If you get a part time job you can always get a second part time job and thus increase your income.
Answered by next?

Why don't you just say you are looking to try something new, and want a few more hours at home each week for family? You can just say that you understand retail often pays less, but the flexibility is worth the trade off.
Answered by CPlatt

some random ideas: Say you want a job with less stress, pressure and responsibilities. Say you want more time to yourself because of family, or friends, or you just want to live your life to the fullest at the moment.
Answered by mikey d

I glad you asked this question not because have a answer but would like to see some answers to similar issue I have/had experienced. That is right now am looking for some part time work to supplement my income and I continual get the "you dont want this job" response at a interview. It baffles me that why would I waste my or there time if not interested in the job. Think the fact that have a MBA and am in my 40s no one wants to hire me for a part time position. I still work full time but have 1 kid heading off to college and another one next year so trying to make some extra money to help with these new expenses.
Answered by Capt83