How long would you wait?

I am currently in waiting to hear from a job I interviewed for 3 weeks ago. This position would be my dream job, and I feel positive about the interview, except for the fact that it has been 3 weeks. After 1 week, they began checking my references, then I followed up at 2 weeks and was told by the manager that she was still "working on the positions." Now, just 2 days ago HR called to say "We didn't forget about you, but the manager is still interviewing, and I was proactive and went ahead and completed your reference check." So that is where I am with regards to that position.

My dilemma is that I currently work part-time and perdiem, and really need more hours, to make ends meet. I COULD tell my current boss where I am per diem that I would like to change to a part-time position, so that I could guarantee my hours. Of course, I don't want to ask for this, only to hear from the "dream job" two weeks later, and have to back out. I'd prefer not to burn bridges, but I would if this job came calling.

So how long would should I wait to hear from the dream job? I was giving up hope, until this spontaneous HR call (not in response to a follow-up from me), but I really need to increase my hours, like a month ago. I kind of want to follow-up with the manager, but since I've already done that once, I'm kind of lost as to what I should say, and when I should do this..

Thanks for any input Last edit by lovenandj, RN on May 17, '12
I would just be forward to the per diem manager about your situation. Just explain the situation just as you explained it here; that you reallyneed to increase your hours, BUT that there remains the possibility ofthis other job, in which case you would have to go right back to per diem.Good luck!

Thanks I considered that too...but I don't want to take the chance of her saying "no- just stick with per diem". I could see that happening, and if I'm going to do it to get the hours, well, I don't want to risk losing the option at all.Arghhhh! I know there are no right answers. I'm just so torn, and I really want this job I'm thinking I'll give it another week. Then maybe reach out to the manager once more, I just don't know what to say without sounding desperate, or threatening with the "well I have another option, blah blah". *sigh*