Not burning bridges

aaabbbb

I recently was offered and accepted (contract signed) a temp clerical/admin role for 2 weeks which I am doing only for the money to keep me going.

However, I have just received an interview in the UK for a permanent position which is in my degree area (science) / kinda my dream role atm.
Unfortunately, the interview takes place during the same period that I have agreed to do the clerical role and I will need to take two days off due to the travel involved.

I have obviously accepted the interview as it's too good an opportunity to miss. My question is though how I should handle the clerical role ?

I'm not sure if I should inform the employer of the clerical role that I am now unavailable for those two days due to interview?

I'm consious of the fact that 2 days off from a 14 day role is quite a lot. I'm wondering should I tell them instead, I am no longer in a position to accept the role even though I have signed the contract?
Although, it pays really well considering what it is and I could really use the money so I would like to avoid this if possible!

The purpose of the role is to add additional support for the team during an exceptionally busy period so either way I'm unfortunately leaving them hanging.

But I really don't want to burn any bridges here if possible, especially as the employer for the clerical role also employs in my area and one never knows what the future holds!

I'm wondering if anyone else has been in a similar position and how did you deal with it / has any advice on how best to approach this ?

gerrycollins

could you defer the interview?

aaabbbb

No its not possible to defer unfortunately it's a case of take the slot given or reject an interview completely

Tzardine

Speak with the manager in your temp role and be up front with them. If they understand , great. If they dont, feck them.

I dont think any prospective employer would hold it against you that you missed two days during a two week temp contract because of an opportunity of a full time job.

Senna

What kind of interview is that??
HR and employers usually want to employ the best and so there has to be some flexibility for interviewing slots, people would still be in employment and maybe prior commitments during that time.
What about a Skype interview at that time slot.

aaabbbb

It's for the NHS

Rescheduling the interview was specifically stated on the interview invite as not possible.

It's the type of role that although the job spec states only Leaving cert (or A levels in this case ) are needed , the reality is that people with Masters degrees and even some PhD's apply because it's such a good initial step on the career ladder for that particular career path. Hence, even before interview HR already have their pick of the best and don't accommodate as a means of whittling down applications since they're so oversubscribed.
Tbh I'm shocked I even got an interview as I have just graduated and have no experience per say.

Skype interview isn't possible as an assessment centre is part of the interview and I also feel it would put me at too much of a disadvantage in comparison to the other candidates.

I'm 110% going to the interview in the UK and have already confirmed my attendance. I'm just unsure how to handle the clerical position that I had agreed to do here in Ireland?

bobbysands81

If I was in your position I'd be up front with the people whom you've agreed to do the work for. I'd tell them I've an interview across the water and I won't be available for two days. I'd offer to make up the two days before or after the scheduled two weeks and just see what they have to say. If it's a problem for them then it's a problem for them. A full time role is far more important for you than just a two week role.