What does a receptionist do?
The front desk of any company or organization is overseen by receptionists. They are in charge of the office’s administrative duties, such as fielding calls and welcoming guests. A receptionist’s duty is to provide a professional and polite impression since they are frequently the initial point of contact with clients and guests. Some companies’ receptionists also have a security role, either by limiting who can enter the building or by alerting the appropriate authorities to possible problems. Helping guests find their way around the office, keeping internal calendars updated, and forwarding calls are all examples of the communication management responsibilities that receptionists may have.
Salary range
A large number of receptionists work full-time, whereas a smaller number may be on contract or work part-time. Earning potential for receptionists is highly dependent on factors such as education and work experience. A receptionist’s income may also be impacted by the nature, size, and location of their employer.
Requirements for a receptionist
Depending on the level of the job you’re going for, there may be specific criteria to become a receptionist, such as:
Education
Receptionists in entry-level positions usually require relevant work experience in addition to a high school graduation. An associate’s or bachelor’s degree is required for some positions.
Community and technical colleges offer courses that teach people the skills necessary to work as receptionists, including accounting for payroll, business algebra, customer service, office management, and software. This is an option for those who do not have a bachelor’s degree. Office software and other practical skills can also be taught online through webinars and tutorials.
Training
The majority of receptionists learn their craft while working. Since this is an entry-level role, you should expect to undergo company-specific training as part of your onboarding process. If you’re looking to hone your communication and office etiquette abilities, an internship or volunteer opportunity could be just what you need. Office staples like copiers and multi-line phones are taught to interns and volunteers.
Certifications
Credentials such as professional certifications can vouch for a candidate’s abilities to prospective and existing employers. Earning a certification can help receptionists learn their job better, demonstrate their competence, and climb the corporate ladder. Common credentials held by those working in this field include the following:
Certified Professional Receptionist
This credential, bestowed by the National Association of Professional Receptionists, attests to a candidate’s commitment to continuously improving their knowledge and abilities in the field. Earning the CPR credential is a great way to show that you’re competent in your field and to show that you’re committed to staying that way. Certification is not required, but it does increase the likelihood that your application will be given more weight.
Certified professional Administrator
This certification shows employers that your abilities and knowledge are up-to-date, relevant, and continuously growing; it is administered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals. The certifying exam tests your understanding of fundamental ideas and abilities that are essential for performing routine jobs.
Skills
To be successful in the position of receptionist, one needs a mix of hard and soft talents. Here are a few special abilities:
Ability to stay organized
Being well-organized is essential for receptionists because they are accountable for many elements of a firm. The ability to plan ahead is essential for receptionists, who must also be able to greet guests, answer phones, build and maintain spreadsheets, and arrange travel.
Communication Skills
The receptionist’s job is to greet guests when they arrive and utilize their communication skills to offer them beverages while they wait for the right person to be available. A receptionist’s ability to smile and exude friendliness is an asset. Active listening is another kind of communication. Receptionists that are good listeners will be able to help executives, visitors, and callers get what they need more quickly. Receptionists also take notes during meetings, compose emails, and help coworkers communicate with one another.
Technical Skills
Whether it’s for bookkeeping, accounting, or social media, receptionists typically utilize a wide variety of apps. To better adapt to new programs, receptionists find it helpful to focus on becoming familiar with current software and technology.
Time-management
In the course of their work, receptionists often deal with a wide range of office-related duties. Good time management abilities, including the ability to divide and conquer, are essential if they are to get everything done throughout the day. They ought to be adept at managing the time of other employees because they might be responsible for scheduling meetings for others.