You do not need to meet any academic requirements to work as a virtual receptionist. Instead, just like a receptionist in a traditional office setting, you must be able to provide a wide range of services. Most office-based receptionists receive on-the-job training, which is difficult to obtain in a virtual position. Rather, many people who want to work as virtual receptionists have prior office experience.
Working from home can provide you with a lot of the skills you’ll need to become a virtual receptionist. Virtual receptionists should have a good working knowledge of office software, such as Microsoft® Word and Excel, as well as the ability to respond to e-mails and phone calls, in addition to a good general education. Virtual receptionists should, above all, have a flexible schedule and the ability to work independently.
Before applying for any virtual receptionist positions, make sure you have the right skills and equipment for the job. You must be willing to work odd hours to become a virtual receptionist, as evenings and early mornings are frequently required. Working from home can be a great option for many people, including parents and retirees, but it requires a completely different mindset and work ethic than working in an office.
In terms of equipment, you’ll need a basic office setup from which to work. If you have to speak with clients on the phone, your office should be a quiet space free of animals or children. A computer with a high-speed Internet connection should be included in your office space at the very least. Some companies require that their software be installed on your computer, so it’s critical that you have a separate computer for work that isn’t shared by everyone in the family. You will almost always be required to have a landline phone, and you may be required to have multiple lines.
It’s time to contact potential employers after you’ve assessed your work environment and determined whether you have the time and commitment to work as a virtual receptionist. You’ll need a strong resume that demonstrates how you meet the virtual receptionist’s skill requirements. There are many websites that list virtual receptionist jobs on the Internet, so this is a good place to start your search. You will find a position relatively quickly and easily if you take the time to research the companies.