Receptionist Jobs

Although receptionist jobs vary depending on the type of organisation for which the receptionist is working, the essential responsibilities are the same. The receptionist is usually located in the lobby/waiting area, so is the first contact a customer/patient has with the organisation. It is therefore necessary for the receptionist to conduct themselves accordingly, with a polite, courteous and composed manner. Their duties may include:

There are no set qualifications which candidates must possess in order to become a receptionist, although a vocational diploma in business/administration (or similar) is often preferred by employers. However, many employers offer this qualification if their chosen candidate does not have it, and he or she will complete this whilst working as a receptionist.

No one can deny that the job can, at times, be very stressful, as the receptionist must maintain a respectful demeanour regardless of the manner in which they are treated by an often very unpredictable public. Patience goes a long way! On the whole, this is a rewarding position, as you are safe in the knowledge that you have provided a service as well as represented your company/organisation in a professional manner.

Progression in this career is possible in that it provides good practical experience in an office environment. Many receptionists go on to work in other administrative roles, such as secretaries, customer services representatives or personal assistants.

Despite advances in technology, such as automated phone lines, there is still very much a demand for an attentive and efficient receptionist in today’s labour market, who can expect to earn a starting salary of between around £14,000 and £22,000 (depending on sector and location.)

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