Q&A for How to Be a Good Receptionist

Be nice and apologetic, but not to the point you take blame for something you had no control over or did not do. If you cannot solve the problem, let them know you will inform your boss and she will attempt to respond to the issue as quickly as possible. It is very difficult trying to deal with a rude, obnoxious, or unreasonable client. Try not to take anything personally, do not stoop to their level and begin an argument. Hide all judgement behind your smile, and take deep breaths.

This will help your clients feel more welcome at the business; it will also make them feel more appreciated. Lastly, it will make the client happy that someone remembers something about them. All of this will make the client more likely to return to that business.

Be extremely observant and pay attention to everything. You will most likely be trained so take as many notes as possible. Pay attention to how to answer the phone.

Try to pick up key words the client is saying. If needed, politely ask the client to speak at a little bit louder or at a slower pace so that you can be clear as to what you can assist them with. Most people will understand and will not be offended.

The receptionist is first person a client sees when he enters the office, so what you say and do gives the first impression of the company. A receptionist is extremely important to how the company is judged.

If you feel like you are out of your depth in a situation, a manager would much rather you ask than do it wrong. But try to learn from these answers and apply knowledge to different situations.

Employ the skills above, in particular your listening skills. Acknowledge the client's concerns and repeat them back to the client, if appropriate, to demonstrate comprehension. Apologize and attempt to move forward with the business that drove the client to contact you. If the client is still disappointed in your behavior and wants to raise a formal complaint regarding the service make sure that you follow your company's policy in a non-obstructive way. It may be worthwhile writing some notes immediately after the client has left so that you can record and recall the incident fully if the incident is followed up on.

Dress conservatively and be punctual, When it comes time to discuss your qualifications don't say generic things like "I'm a fast leaner" or "I can do anything." State your specific qualifications and how you can help your new employer benefit by what you have to offer. Highlight any experience you have in customer service or other jobs where you dealt directly with people.

Reorganize reading materials by making recent and relevant periodicals most visible. Depending on the type of business, magazines should match the product the company sells. Reading materials should always reflect the current knowledge of the company's latest technology or vision. Unless you are a receptionist in a salon, there should not be any gossip magazines.

Always welcome them with a smile, and make yourself available to them while they're in your presence. Offer water or other refreshments if you can.

Whether you are going for an interview for this role or you are about to begin the job, you cannot beat the white blouse, black skirt and blazer look. Shoes ideally should be flat but no higher than 2 inch heels, as you will be on your feet all day.

"I'll have to check with the manager. Will you excuse me for a moment?" or something like that.

Receptionist jobs for different businesses are quite different. If you are employed, ask your employer how to improve. It is okay to ask them questions.

It depends on the hospital. If they do not like what you are wearing, they will tell you. You should see if you are allowed to wear scrubs. They look comfortable.

A receptionist should help a caller as much as their knowledge allows them to do so. If a caller is wanting assistance with something which you are not authorized or able to help with, take their details and pass them on to someone who can help.

There are many potential problems, but here are a few: One problem may be the number clients you need to serve in a short amount of time. Another could be having to keep up with payments and directing clients to the right place. Also, dealing with people who have complaints and bad attitudes.

It wouldn't hurt to do so; after all, it is always better to be "over-dressed" than under-dressed. A suit would look very professional.

Answer the phone and ask if you can put the person on hold. As long as you're polite, most people are happy to comply. If more people continue to come in, you can also ask for their phone number and information, and let them know you will call them back so they don't have to continue to wait.

A receptionist should ask a first time customer/visitor for their identification, the company they are from or the reason for their visit and whether or not they have an appointment.

You must remember that the patients are not at their best when they are visiting the Doctor. Being sick or in pain does change their perception of the events going on around them. No matter how you try to smile and be pleasant, it may not always come across to a person who is not well. Take a deep breath and try to give this person "extra special treatment" as if they were you own family member. As far Facebook, I would have the entry deleted after a few days so that no one can read the review.

Most hotels will tell the front desk clerk what they should wear. It will probably be business casual or they may provide a uniform.

It is possible that you may work hard and be given other opportunities within the company. You do, however, usually need a lot of training and some qualifications to become a manager. Look for courses you can take to help you achieve your goal as a manager.

Nationally, it averages about $13/hr. The more experience and larger the company (and higher the cost of living in your area), the more you'll make.

If you have a lot of papers to deal with, start by creating an organized filing system. If you don't have enough desk space for everything you need during the day, you could consider purchasing a cabinet or some shelving units to help free up more space in the reception area. Clean the area throughout the day to prevent it from becoming cluttered.

First, greet the caller and thank them for calling your company or office. Ask them how you can help them and do your best to give them whatever they need. When you're about to hang up, thank them for calling and wish them a good day.

It is common to ask for the guest's name, phone, identification, address and the length of stay.

Smile -- ensure that you look happy and welcoming. Greet them happily and remain attentive as you speak to them.

Consider some clients can be difficult, some can refuse to give details and others can be rude.

Get the person's details -- names, place of work and who they want to talk to.

It depends on your place of business. You can inquire within each company to find out the specific daily tasks required from their receptionist.