Receptionists are vital to the success of any company simply because they are every company’s first official representative. The receptionist job description will include a variety of assignments and duties, however the greatest role is the courteously meet and welcome customers and general members of the public.

Receptionist Duties
Just as receptionists present the face of the company, they also present the voice of the company
when they greet and answer phone calls. The receptionist jobs also includes the following functions:

•Answer phones and transfer calls to the appropriate employees.
•Greet and assist visitors with visitor badges or escort them to an office or meeting room.
•Offer guests something to drink.
•Handle questions about the business or offer brochures with business information.
•Take messages and make sure they get to the appropriate employees.
•Accept and sign for packages and distribute mail.
•Occasional filling, bookkeeping and scheduling.
•Maintain a pleasant appearance of the reception area or lobby.

Receptionist Training & Qualifications

Generally, receptionists may only be required to have GCSE’s. However, some hiring managers will require experience in an office setting and evidence of the ability to handle various duties such as office computer skills. Hiring managers will also want a receptionist who is able to interact well with the public and can learn quickly. The training will happen on the job, however, the trainer will likely have a number of his or her own duties to cover. So, hiring someone who is a quick learner or a quick starter is desirable.

While the receptionist must be a quick learner, he or she also most be able to quickly understand the nature of the business where he or she works. The receptionist must be able to handle difficult situations such as customer complaints or bosses running behind schedule for an appointment. Attitude is important for the receptionist job description. A hiring manager will desire someone who can handle several situations at once with poise and confidence.

Additionally, while the receptionist is being courteous, he or she must also be alert and watchful of every visitor who enters the business. The receptionist may be the first one to alert security if there is a problem.

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