Fresh Profile: Receptionist Jobs

Published on 2008-08-07

A receptionist is usually the first person to greet a visitor at any organization. Responsibilities associated with receptionist jobs include directing visitors to the proper party, answering inquiries over the phone and in person, and various clerical duties such as filing, faxing, and setting appointments. Other clerical jobs that receptionists perform include light data entry, record keeping, and sorting the mail. A receptionist must have thorough knowledge of the company and should be able to maintain a professional and courteous attitude at all times.

A high school diploma or GED is usually required for most receptionist positions. Basic computer knowledge and typing skills are essential requirements. In addition to those skills, a receptionist must possess exceptional customer service skills and should have a neat and professional appearance in order to create a positive first impression of the organization.

Because each business has its own procedures, most receptionists receive on-the-job training. The specific duties vary from one workplace to another. For example, a receptionist at a small company may handle administrative jobs such as managing the calendar and taking messages for the staff. Those working in corporate headquarters may be in charge of parking validations and the conference room schedule. A medical receptionist at a doctor's office or hospital may call in prescriptions, schedule procedures, and collect patients' insurance information. A receptionist for a beauty salon will make appointments for clients and perform light cashiering duties.

Job opportunities for receptionists are likely to show strong growth over the next several years according to projections by the U.S. Bureau of Labor. Receptionist jobs in California, New York or anywhere else in the U.S. can be found within the health care and social assistance industries or manufacturing, wholesale, government, and real estate industries, among others. Part time jobs can also be found with early morning and evening hours that accommodate the schedules of college students or individuals seeking additional income.

Becoming a receptionist can serve as a starting point for advancing to a higher position within a company. A receptionist at a dental or medical facility, for example, could become a medical administrative assistant. A receptionist could also attain a supervisory position or become a secretary or administrative assistant.

Whether you are looking for administrative jobs in Pennsylvania or receptionist jobs in Florida, Fresho.com's free online classifieds database is the best place to start.