Entry-level receptionists frequently gain on-the-job experience before moving up the corporate ladder. Because receptionists are needed in so many different fields, there are usually many different types of entry level receptionist jobs available. Law firms, health care offices, governments, utilities, and automobile dealerships are among the top employers of entry-level receptionists. Candidates should look for positions as receptionists in fields where they want to advance.
Answering phones and greeting clients are common responsibilities for entry-level receptionists. Receptionists are occasionally expected to help with overflow administrative tasks such as filing and word processing. Maintaining a clean front lobby and doing some data entry may also be required. A high school diploma is usually required for an entry-level receptionist.
A receptionist for a law firm must be able to multitask and maintain a professional demeanor. When clients arrive to speak with attorneys, they are greeted by the receptionist. He or she may offer refreshments to visitors while notifying the attorney’s administrative assistant or the attorney. Because of the sensitivity of attorney-client privilege, the receptionist must be able to keep confidential information about who comes and goes in the office.
Another broad field for entry-level receptionists is health care. When relatives of nursing home and hospital patients enter a facility, they frequently encounter a receptionist. Families are greeted by such receptionists, who direct them to the appropriate room or floor. Flowers are frequently accepted by front desk receptionists, who then route them to the appropriate nurses’ station for delivery to the patients.
Front desk receptionists are employed by many public utility and government buildings. These individuals welcome visitors and serve as the building’s first line of defense. They are responsible for reporting any suspicious persons or activities to security officers and police. All visitors entering the building beyond the reception desk must sign in and show photo identification to the receptionist in many cases.
Receptionists are commonly found on the dealer floor of automobile dealerships. They work from a desk and take phone calls. Another task performed by auto entry level receptionists is paging sales personnel to the phones. Because most receptionists are the first people a client or customer encounters at a business, they are expected to dress and act professionally.