A front desk receptionist welcomes visitors as they enter a business and is frequently the first voice people hear when they call. He or she is usually in charge of a variety of administrative tasks, such as mail distribution and filing. A person in this position may specialize in billing, making reservations, or assisting with security, depending on the workplace. From a manufacturing plant to a hotel, he or she can work anywhere with a welcoming area.
responsibilities
A front desk receptionist’s main responsibilities include greeting visitors, answering questions, and directing them to other areas of the building. In addition, the majority of them work in offices. They deal with written correspondence, schedule appointments, send and forward e-mails, compile reports, and keep the office running efficiently. Preparing letters and parcels for shipping, as well as cultivating positive relationships with shipping and courier services, are routine tasks.
Front desk receptionists with more experience may have additional responsibilities, such as light bookkeeping and researching potential vendors. This is especially common in businesses without other administrative staff, such as a secretary. He or she may also prepare reports and spreadsheets, as well as assist with meeting planning. Some businesses also have receptionists who keep track of other employees’ information, such as attendance records and performance evaluations.
Areas of expertise
Receptionists at front desks may have specializations based on their workplace. For example, a law office employee may be required to have a basic understanding of the type of law that his or her firm specializes in, whereas a medical office employee may be required to be able to do medical billing and understand the fundamentals of health insurance. Similarly, a hotel’s front desk receptionist must be able to take reservations and direct guests to nearby businesses and landmarks. Those who work in places that produce tangible goods or house exhibits, such as a factory or museum, may also give tours to visitors. Some establishments may employ people in this position to assist with security by logging visitors in and out or requesting identification.
Requirements for Personal and Educational Purposes
A receptionist at the front desk must be well-organized, friendly, and engaging. He or she should be able to multitask effectively and prioritize projects as necessary. The ability to solve problems and interact with a diverse group of people is often the difference between a good and a great receptionist.
This position necessitates proficiency with computers and telecommunications systems. He or she must communicate with employees, customers, and vendors on a regular basis and must be able to call, e-mail, and text people efficiently. Web video conferencing and Voice over IP (VoIP) training are a plus, though they are not always required.
To work as a front desk receptionist, no formal education is required. Some businesses employ people with only a high school diploma and train them on the job. However, having at least an associate’s degree can greatly improve one’s chances of landing this type of job, and some employers require more advanced degrees.