Do I mention self employed career aspirations when applying for part time work?

tellingtales123

Hi everyone, 
As the title says really.. 
I have skills and qualifications working in the equine/canine industry as well as admin/reception rolls. I've seen a job which incorporates both ever so slightly but is more related to admin work. However, I do feel that my experience with both industries works well for this role (vet receptionist). The role is part time. 
If I did make it to an interview, do I keep it to myself that my long term goal would be continuing to strive towards future self employed work within the canine/equine industry or do I brush it off and just say its a side hobby/weekend job .. 
Im writing my cover letter now and based off a part time roll cover letter template an example given is: I’m currently [reason you are choosing to pursue a part-time position], which will allow me to [benefits of being part-time – e.g. spend time with the children]. 
Bit confused and I can see the postives and negatives of doing both 

Andy_L

They don't need to know why you want a PT role, so don't tell them.

TBagpuss

I wouldn't, it may read as "I see this job as a temporary one until I get my business off the ground" whereas they probably want someone who will be / seem more committed. 
I think that you can set out that you have experience with dogs and horses as [whatever you do in that field] as that's potentially relevant to the job and explains why working in a vet's may appeal to you (and reassures them that you probably won't panic or walk out the first time someone's pet throws up all over reception)  
If they ask at the interview why you are interested in part time then at that point you can say that you are available part time as your own animals / existing part time role takes up time. but it should only be relevant to them if they want you to be very flexible in the hours you work, or need you to be able to do a lolling pattern of shifts, so consider how flexible you can be so you are prepared if that is  question you are asked, but don't volunteer that you are aiming to turn your qualifications into a full time business. 

Marcon

I'd certainly mention it, making it clear that your canine/equine interests are important to you but won't impact on your ability to do the job being offered/be flexible about hours and days. Employers are receiving so many applications from people who will take anything because they are desperate that it makes a lot of sense to ensure they know you are genuinely looking for a long-term part-time role, not someone who'll be off the moment they can get full time employment.

oh_really

tellingtales123 said:

If I did make it to an interview, do I keep it to myself that my long term goal would be continuing to strive towards future self employed work

Don't raise your S/E aspirations at interview. Sell yourself as their model employee and why you should be appointed to post.

CapricornLass

I think on balance I would mention it during an interview.  You will have to formulate Business Plans for the next five years after all, and things will have got delayed because of the pandemic.    You could say that you are hoping to work at creating your own business part time, with a view to reviewing how your business is going after three years or so. That way you are being open and honest, you are showing that you are intending to remain there for three years at least, and, (if you are young and single), why you are applying for a part-time job.  Saying that you need the extra time to look after your animals wouldn't really cut the mustard with me in an interview, sorry.