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Receptionist

Receptionists provide the initial point of contact for organisations by greeting visitors and dealing with telephone enquiries.

 

Tasks & duties

Receptionists may do some or all of the following:

  • greet visitors
  • register visitors and notify appropriate staff of their arrival
  • answer telephone calls and transfer calls to appropriate staff
  • answer general enquiries about the organisation
  • log and sort incoming mail and faxes
  • keep the reception area tidy
  • organise catering for staff meetings or functions
  • maintain and order office supplies as required
  • administrative tasks like typing, filing, photocopying, binding and laminating
  • look after a petty cash account
  • assist other administrative staff

 

Skills & knowledge

Receptionists need to have:

  • computer and word-processing skills
  • communication and listening skills
  • the ability to use general office equipment such as photocopiers and printers
  • knowledge of administration policies, systems and procedures
  • planning and organisational skills
  • understanding of the roles of other staff

 

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements to become a receptionist. On-the-job training is usually completed to ensure you know the specific office procedures required.

 

Secondary education

Generally require Completion of Year 10 equivalent in English and information management are useful subjects for receptionists.

 

Tertiary education

Courses in reception and office skills may be useful for receptionists.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for receptionists includes working in an office environment or any work involving telephone use.

 

Related courses

Public Relations
Secretarial and Office Studies

 

For more information, please refer to myfuture.

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