Learn about the important requirements, obligations, responsibilities, and skills that should be in a receptionist job description.
A front desk receptionist is the first person a client or customer will speak to when they walk into or call your business. Known as the point of contact for staff members, they often handle the bulk of the administrative tasks that help the office function properly and support the work of the rest of the team.
Do you need to hire a receptionist? Post your first job listing on ZipRecruiter for free! You can also take a look at our list of the best free job posting websites.
Receptionist Job Description Template
We’re looking for an upbeat and outgoing person to fill the receptionist role on our team. You’ll work our front desk, greeting clients and any other visitors as they enter. You will also be responsible for administrative tasks like answering phone calls, distributing office materials and mail, relaying messages to staff members, and assisting clients with any needs or questions.
In addition to a positive attitude, good communication skills, experience with computer programs like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, and the ability to work well under pressure will help a person succeed as a receptionist with our company.
Receptionist Responsibilities
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Greet people as they enter the building, along with helping them find their way to their appointment
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Alerting employees when someone is requesting them
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Managing the phone system, including answering and forwarding calls, and taking messages if a staff member is unavailable
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Collecting and distributing mail throughout the office
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Being a part of the interview team for new hires, especially for additional administrative staff
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Assisting the office with administrative duties as needed
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Screen visitors as they enter, maintaining an updated visitor log
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Handling data entry, filing, copying, purchasing office supplies, and other administrative duties
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Provide visitors with excellent customer service
Receptionist Requirements
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High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
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Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree is preferred
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Experience working as a receptionist, working in a fast-paced environment is a bonus
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Computer proficiency
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Strong organization, communication, and time management skills
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Receptionist Duties And Responsibilities
Being a receptionist involves having the ability to handle multiple projects at once, along with maintaining a positive attitude among visitors. Here are some of the most common duties:
Greet people as they enter the building, along with helping them find their way to their appointment
Greeting guests as they enter any space is the secret to starting positive conversations. Something as simple as a smile or a friendly hello can completely change how a person views a business or the person they are meeting. A receptionist should be welcoming and be able to freely initiate a meaningful conversation with visitors. This will, in turn, help strengthen client relations.
Managing the phone system, including answering and forwarding calls, and taking messages if a staff member is unavailable
While many businesses are turning to chatbots or email customer service accounts to manage inquiries about products or services, talking to someone over the phone is still one of the most preferred methods of communication for customers. That’s why properly managing a phone system is one of the primary responsibilities of a receptionist. Strong verbal communication skills are useful for a receptionist to complete this duty.
Being a part of the interview team for new hires, especially for additional administrative staff
A receptionist knows a business inside and out, especially its strengths and weaknesses. Because this position requires great attention to detail and knowledge of the office, receptionists are often asked to sit in on interviews for potential employees. Their insight can be extremely useful when adding new members to the team, especially administrative staff.
Handling data entry, filing, copying, purchasing office supplies, and other administrative duties
Clerical duties make up a large portion of a receptionist’s day. Filing, copying, record keeping, making travel arrangements, scheduling appointments, proofreading, and managing spreadsheets are only a few of the administrative tasks that a receptionist handles. Completing all these tasks in a given day requires effective time management and multitasking skills.
Alerting employees when someone is requesting them
Depending on the business size, a receptionist may interact with several dozen people a day scheduled to meet staff members. After a receptionist greets each guest, they are responsible for ensuring they get to the appropriate office and following up with them after the visit has concluded. This is another duty where strong communication skills come in handy.
Receptionist Salary And Job Outlook
Median National Salary: $30,872
Education Required: High School Diploma or GED
Number of Jobs: 1,037,100
Job Growth 2020 – 2030: 0%
The Bottom Line
A receptionist will help create a better face for your business and keep your files organized, your office supply stock up-to-date, and your customers happy.
If you’re ready to hire a receptionist, you’ll need to write a captivating job description. After that, you’ll need to post the job on sites where potential candidates can see it and apply. Check out our list of the best free job posting sites for ideas. Post your Receptionist job description on ZipRecruiter today!
