In a work-related quandry and feeling a bit old!!!

Eliza_2

Just wondering what to do really, as I change my mind from day to day!

I'm working part time for a small company on an informal, temp basis and have been for 2 years now. I like the work and the small group of people (there are 5 of us) but I know that they have decided that they want to make what I do into a permanent post for more hours than I do now.

I think they're finding it a bit awkward as I've asked them how far they've got with their planning for it and when can I apply. They've never been totally straight about it, just joked and said they'll put a notice up in the office with an added note that only I should apply, and other things that give me the impression that they want me to go for it. They've asked what hours I would want, and all of that matches their idea, and they're involving me in future plans, again all stuff that leads me to think I could get these hours. However an emailed cv came in yesterday from someone who obviously thinks they're applying for the vacancy (not advertised, but there's a bit of an old mates network going on) and looks masses better than me on paper.

I feel less than confident about it as they're all in their late 30s, early 40s, rush around everywhere, have quick brains etc and I'm 61 and while up to scratch (and more than some of them) with IT, customer service etc etc, I may not fit with what they want. If that's so, I don't want to apply and will happily bow out - I can easily pick up other work, so that isn't an issue.

I want to broach them about it tomorrow as it's been hanging around long enough, but don't really know how to. I'd like the job if they're not just asking me because I'm in situ (better the devil they know and so on) but not if they would really prefer someone else better but don't know how to tell me or that they feel sorry for me. Somehow I suppose I want to say that I like working for them and would like the hours, but that if I didn't work for them it would be no big deal as I could get other work and so they could take someone younger on and that would be fine, which it would. They don't need to feel guilty about it - which I actually think they would as we have all become friends. But that sounds awful too!

Ho hum, am confusing myself even more now!! Does any of this make sense and if so, can you advise me please.

Takeaway_Addict

Sounds you lack confidence.

From the jist of it I would say hold tight and let what will be be, they cannot legally discriminate against you because of your age and if you are doing as good a job as they want then chances are they will ask you.

Again, take teh pressure of yourself and let things ride for a bit.

paddyrg

To quote an overused wartime motivational poster, keep calm and carry on. If they offer you the job, they recognise how much you bring in terms of experience etc, if not, nothing lost. Just hold your nerve.