what is a receptionist?

A receptionist is an essential employee for many types of organizations and businesses. You greet people who enter the building or handle phone calls and emails for the company. Although receptionists' workloads are mostly related to customer service, they often handle a wide variety of administrative tasks. Some receptionists assist with setting appointments, filing records and sorting mail.

what do receptionists do?

Your role as a receptionist can vary a lot depending on the business. In some cases, you are responsible for cleaning and tidying a reception area or providing beverages to guests. Some receptionists also accept payments or manage bookkeeping for the company. At some companies, you'll be responsible for booking conference rooms or setting up meeting rooms.

other receptionist duties

When most people think of receptionists, they picture a person working in an office building. While it is true that you'll likely be employed in an office, receptionists also work in other industries. You'll find this position at any workplace that needs someone coordinating interactions between customers and employees. For example, if you work in a law firm, you'll receive new clients and direct visitors to their appointments. In hospitals, receptionists direct patients to the right treatment areas and organize their medical records. Receptionists also work in hotels or manufacturing companies at the front desk to welcome visitors.

Would working as a receptionist suit your social skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a receptionist role.

receptionist jobs near you
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average receptionist salary

Would you like to know what a receptionist earns? Where the highest salaries are paid for a receptionist? Then check out this receptionist salary page and find out all about the salary of a receptionist in the USA.

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types of receptionist

While receptionists are not divided into strict categories, there are several types of positions in this field. Some of the common receptionist jobs include:

  • front desk receptionist: Your job is to monitor the front desk and direct visitors entering the office to their appointments. You also ensure the reception area is tidy, and you can add decorative touches to make it more welcoming.
  • corporate receptionist: Your job is to assist executive assistants with repetitive tasks like screening calls and handling mail. You also write memos from the executives to staff and summarize reports from various departments.
  • human resources (HR) receptionist: In a company with a dedicated HR department, you sit at the entrance of the department offices. You also perform administrative tasks like tracking holidays and sick leave, filing paperwork for new starters and planning employee travel.
smiling hotel receptionist attending to guest
smiling hotel receptionist attending to guest
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working as a receptionist

Are you interested in learning more about the day-to-day realities of being a receptionist? Here are some of the things you might encounter.

hotel receptionist answering phone
hotel receptionist answering phone
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receptionist skills and education

Many receptionists only need a high school diploma. You'll receive quick on-the-job training that you can add to your resume. Employers prefer applicants with software experience, but your supervisor will likely teach you how to use the office platforms.

Some receptionists need industry-specific training. For example, many medical receptionists need a college education and post-secondary certification, such as a Medical Administrative Assistant Certificate. Your university may offer certifications that you complete alongside your degree.

If you pursue an official certificate, such as a medical administrative assistant associate degree, your education may include workplace mathematics, medical insurance and billing, computing skills, workplace writing and research and customer service. Your expertise and commitment to higher education stand out on your resume.

Stay alert for opportunities to continue your education. Learn about new software, platforms and coding types in your industry so that you can adapt quickly and enhance your knowledge base. Some websites provide free or affordable training courses. You might land a position in a high-paying industry if you seek a business bachelor's degree.

skills and competencies

Some of the skills necessary for receptionists include:

  • effective communication: As a receptionist, you should have exceptional verbal communication skills. You should speak calmly and professionally to all visitors. Active listening and customer service skills also help you excel in the role.
  • interpersonal skills: You have to be a good team player as a receptionist. You interact and collaborate with various employees in the office. You need people skills to help everyone with their duties.
  • multitasking skills: A receptionist handles many duties like screening calls, managing call traffic and running a busy reception area. Multitasking skills help you to prioritize and ensure that you accomplish all tasks.
  • technical prowess: Your job involves maintaining office equipment and operating copiers, phone systems and printers. Technical skills will make your work easier and improve your performance. You also need computer skills for your clerical duties.
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FAQs about working as a receptionist

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about receptionists.

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