Is it appropriate to ask about the hourly pay rate for a part-time job I'm pursuing over the phone?

Question

I really need some help here.

It's a part-time job at a bookstore. I called once and they said it's ok for students on vacation to apply.
But before I actually head down to the place, I think I should ask more questions...so...
What other things should I enquire about?

Thanks for helping.

Answer 1

If it were me i would want to know the following before deciding to apply,

What are the days/hours of work.
What is the rate of pay.
What if any are my targets.

Answer 2

Absolutely. Probably not wise to ask it too soon, but you definitely need, and have a right to know.

The person who interviews you over the phone will probably tell you fairly early on; but if he/she doesn't, then ask (as politely as possible!).

In answer to those who suggest it's "bad etiquette", or somehow bad form to ask, I disagree. First, if the pay is too low, why should you waste your time - and theirs! - going for an interview if you don't intend to take the job because of the poor pay. Second, if they are scared you'd go and work somewhere else (or cared, for that matter), then they'd pay better - they must know what other places pay.

So, far better to be upfront and find out the information that will help you decide if you even want to bother attending an interview, than to waste everyone's time by going to an interview for a job you've no intention of taking. As others have suggested, ask it along with a few other, pertinant questions - it *would* be a bit odd if it were the only question you asked.

Answer 3

Asking what the pay rate over the phone might make you look like you just care about the money and not the job. I would just go to the interview and find out there. Ask them about the job description. It's an opportunity for both you and the bookstore to find out if you'll be a good candidate for the job. Good luck.

Answer 4

Yes, of course it is appropriate to ask about the rate of pay. Sadly we seem to live in a world where people are a little too shy and reserved when it comes to asking vital questions, especially about money.

You need to try and follow a career that will allow you to dictate your level of pay based on the amount of business that it will generate for the company or industry. Just look at most freelance business consultants who offer their services for vast fees and get what they ask for.

In the current economic climate the majority of people will generally find themselves having to get by on very poor wages, Maybe £6.50 at best for most part time jobs.

Answer 5

Yes, it certainly is appropriate, especially as bookshops notoriously pay so badly. If you feel uncomfortable asking only that question, ask it as one of several. For example you could call and ask about dress code, the hours you would be required to work, whether they required references and - oh yes, what's the hourly rate ?

Answer 6

Hours to be worked.Rate of pay at the telephone stage. Explain that you have a journey to get to them and you do not wish to waste their time.

Answer 7

You must ask what they are paying - because it shows they are serious. If they are paying poor wages they probably don't care what soprt of staff they get, why not tell them what you want ?

Make sure you understand your responsibilities, and theirs to you

Answer 8

no u shouldn't. it is bad job etiquette. u should ask how many hours will u be allowed to work. my advice to figure out the pay is to find out what the minimum wage is in the area and add about 2 dollars and that is about what u would get paid.

Answer 9

asking about pay is something you should definitely do. You need to knw if it's worth it. Also ask about hours.

Answer 10

Not good to give your name if your asking such question. They'll think you leave if another job pays more.