Are you a good communicator or looking for a role that uses your excellent organisation skills? A Receptionist job offers flexible working across the UK with entry and senior level positions for any level of jobseeker. Here, we will explore what your day-to-day would look like, how to apply for a role, and some free resources for landing your next Receptionist job.
What is a Receptionist?
A Receptionist is employed within an office to perform administrative and clerical tasks, as well as act as the first point of contact between visitors and a company. As part of your day-to-day role, you’ll be expected to answer phone calls and emails on behalf of the company, greet visitors, manage and maintain documents and filing systems, maintain records, and organise schedules, among other clerical tasks.
Whether you’re looking for part-time work that fits within school hours or a full-time position to develop your career, Receptionist roles are available with multiple contract types across the UK. You don’t need any specific qualifications or experience to become a Receptionist. Instead, you can apply for an entry-level role with transferable skills such as communication, organisation, and time management. For this role you will need good literacy and numeracy skills, and you might be asked for your GCSEs or equivalent.
You will need some basic computing skills to help you organise documents, update records, and maintain schedules. While you don’t need to have a specific qualification, you can access free IT proficiency training online. Some roles might offer training and system inductions, depending on what systems they use.
How to Become a Receptionist?
To become a Receptionist, you don’t need any specific qualifications. Receptionist positions are available from entry to senior level, making it a great starting position for you even if you don’t have previous experience in this area. If you’re looking to become a Receptionist, you will need to highlight key skills such as organisation, computing skills, and communication. You might also be asked for your GCSEs or equivalent.
What to Put on a Receptionist CV
When applying for this role, you’ll need a Receptionist CV template that highlights your unique skills and experience for this role. For each position, you should be tailoring your application to their job specifications and experience needs – including highlighting your IT proficiency in line with what they are expecting.
Similar Jobs to Receptionist
Receptionist work relies on good communication, organisation, and computing skills. Some similar job roles that might interest you if you’ve got these qualities include Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, Customer Service Representative, and Salesperson. If you’re looking for a role that develops your customer service, while using your organisation and time management skills, an office has plenty of opportunities for expanding your career.
Other Jobs in Office
The office environment has plenty of opportunities across the UK for career progression. Whether you’re looking to specialise in a particular skillset or get your foot in the door, there are other jobs in the office that use the skills you’ve developed as a Receptionist. Roles such as Administrative Assistant and Customer Service Representative use your exceptional communication and customer skills, while Office Manager roles offer a natural progression once you’ve gained enough work experience. If you’re looking to specialise in an office role, then Salesperson, Human Resources Assistant or a role in marketing or accounting could be a place for development for you.
Apply for Receptionist Jobs Near You
Looking for Receptionist jobs near you? Office work is available around the UK, with a variety of contract types to suit any needs. Whether you’re looking to grow your experience around your studies with a part-time position or developing a career with permanent employment, there are a variety of job opportunities with Receptionist jobs near you.
Receptionist Job Description FAQ
Is a Receptionist a Good Career Choice?
Yes, a Receptionist job is a good career choice for anyone looking to explore the office working environment. If you’re a good people person and a talented organiser with a strong attention to detail, then Receptionist work could be your next role.
What Skills Does a Receptionist Need?
A Receptionist doesn’t need specific qualifications but some key skills that can help you land this role include:
- Communication
- Customer service
- Organisation
- Time management
- Basic computing skills
What Are the Biggest Challenges of Being a Receptionist?
Receptionist roles require high levels of multitasking with various tasks and visitors to see to daily. This is a fast-paced environment that can become stressful if not organised and managed well. Remaining positive under stress is another crucial element as you’ll be the face of the company for any guests.
What Personal Qualities Make a Great Receptionist?
Some personal qualities that can help you succeed within a Receptionist role include:
- Detail orientated
- Friendly
- Organised
- Logical thinker
- Enjoys working in fast-paced environments
