What's it Like to be a Receptionist?
There are loads of receptionist jobs available online. You already know what a receptionist is; you’ve probably encountered them during your life, at hotels, office buildings, and the like. But if you’ve never actually been a receptionist, you may not realize what it’s like to actually be one.
You Need to Look Nice Every Day
You don’t need to be a model to be a receptionist, but you do need to present well. You need to dress up every day because you’ll be “facing the public” as they enter the premises where you work. Your wardrobe needs to pass muster, too. No wrinkled shirts or stained sleeves. Think neat and tidy.
You’ll be Answering Phones
Most receptionists also answer incoming calls. You’ll need to learn how to use a multi-line telephone. You will either need to take messages or forward phone calls to their respective parties. This means that you need to have a clear speaking voice and be able to sound professional on the line.
You’ll Have Small Admin Jobs, Too
Don’t think that you can just sit and scroll Instagram when the phone’s not ringing and there’s no one around. Most companies give their receptionists extra tasks to complete “in their spare time.” So in between phones and visitors to the building, you may have to file papers, input data on the computer, check purchase orders or perform similar small tasks. These may not take up a lot of time, but you’ll still be expected to get them done.
Being a receptionist isn’t always easy. You will need to juggle things because there are so many tasks that are your responsibility. But it has many benefits, such as being able to work independently, express your personality, and meet a lot of diverse members of the public.