THE RECEPTION

Reception refers to the process of receiving and welcoming visitors, clients, or patients who arrive at the office. This typically involves a receptionist or front desk staff member who greets the visitor, asks for their name and the purpose of their visit, and directs them to the appropriate person or department.

The receptionist or front desk staff member may also provide information about the office’s services, policies, and procedures, answer general questions, and handle incoming phone calls or emails.

The reception is an important part of office practice as it helps to create a positive first impression and ensure that visitors feel welcome and valued. It also helps to ensure that appointments and meetings run smoothly and efficiently.

 

Duties of the receptionist

The duties of a receptionist can vary depending on the type of business and industry, but generally include the following:

1. Greeting visitors and customers: One of the most important duties of a receptionist is to greet visitors and customers and make them feel welcome.
2. Answering phone calls: The receptionist is usually the first point of contact for customers and clients who call the company. They must answer calls professionally, take messages, and transfer calls to the appropriate person.
3. Scheduling appointments: The receptionist may be responsible for scheduling appointments for clients or customers, whether over the phone or in person. They must keep the schedule organized and up-to-date.
4. Managing mail and deliveries: The receptionist may be responsible for receiving and distributing mail, packages, and deliveries to the appropriate person or department.
5. Maintaining the reception area: The receptionist is responsible for keeping the reception area clean, organized, and welcoming. They may also be responsible for ordering office supplies and keeping inventory of office supplies.
6. Providing information: The receptionist may be asked to provide information about the company, products or services, and office hours to visitors or callers.
7. Processing paperwork: The receptionist may be responsible for processing paperwork, such as invoices, receipts, and other administrative tasks.
8. Assisting other departments: The receptionist may be asked to assist other departments with administrative tasks or projects.

 

Documents handled by a receptionist

As a receptionist, there are several documents that you may handle on a daily basis, depending on the nature of your work and the industry you are in. Some common documents that a receptionist may handle include:

1. Visitor logbook: A visitor logbook is a document that records information about the visitors who come into the office. As a receptionist, you may be responsible for maintaining this logbook and ensuring that visitors sign in and out properly.
2. Appointment book/calendar: As a receptionist, you may also be responsible for scheduling appointments and maintaining a calendar of upcoming events. This document can help you keep track of important dates and ensure that everyone in the office is aware of upcoming meetings or events.
3. Phone log: A phone log is a document that records information about incoming and outgoing phone calls. As a receptionist, you may need to maintain this log and ensure that all calls are properly recorded.
4. Mail log: A mail log is a document that records information about incoming and outgoing mail. As a receptionist, you may need to maintain this log and ensure that all mail is properly sorted and distributed.
5. Invoices and receipts: Invoices and receipts are documents that are used to record financial transactions. As a receptionist, you may be responsible for receiving and processing invoices and receipts, and ensuring that they are properly filed and organized.
6. Purchase orders: A purchase order is a document that is used to request goods or services from a vendor. As a receptionist, you may be responsible for receiving and processing purchase orders, and ensuring that they are properly filed and organized.
7. Policies and procedures: Policies and procedures are documents that outline the rules and regulations of the company. As a receptionist, you may need to ensure that these documents are properly updated and distributed to all employees.

 

Qualities of a receptionist

A receptionist is typically the first point of contact for visitors, clients, and customers in an organization. They play a critical role in creating a positive first impression of the company, as well as managing the flow of people and information within the office. The following are some of the qualities that a good receptionist should possess:

1. Professionalism: A receptionist should maintain a professional demeanor at all times, including dress, language, and behavior. They should be courteous, patient, and attentive to the needs of clients and visitors.
2. Communication skills: A receptionist must have excellent verbal and written communication skills. They should be able to clearly and accurately convey information to visitors, clients, and employees.
3. Multitasking abilities: A receptionist must be able to handle multiple tasks and responsibilities simultaneously. This includes answering phones, greeting visitors, scheduling appointments, and responding to emails.
4. Organization skills: A receptionist should be highly organized and able to keep track of multiple appointments and tasks. They should also have good record-keeping skills to maintain accurate records of client interactions.
5. Problem-solving abilities: A receptionist should be able to handle difficult situations calmly and effectively. They should be able to think on their feet and find creative solutions to problems.
6. Attention to detail: A receptionist should be highly detail-oriented, ensuring that all client and visitor information is accurate and up-to-date.
7. Positive attitude: A receptionist should have a positive and friendly attitude, making visitors and clients feel welcome and at ease. They should also be able to maintain their composure under pressure.
8. Technical skills: A receptionist should have a good understanding of technology and be comfortable using office equipment, such as computers, printers, and telephone systems.

 

Procedures for handling telephone calls 

As a receptionist, handling telephone calls is a crucial part of your job. Here are some general procedures for handling telephone calls effectively:

1. Greeting: Always greet the caller with a polite and professional greeting, such as “Good morning/afternoon, thank you for calling [company name], how may I assist you?”
2. Identifying the caller: Ask for the caller’s name and the purpose of their call. This will help you direct the call to the right person or department.
3. Active listening: Listen carefully to the caller’s request or inquiry. Take notes if necessary to ensure that you have all the information you need.
4. Providing information: If the caller is asking for general information, provide accurate and concise information in a clear and professional manner.
5. Transferring calls: If the caller needs to speak with someone specific, transfer the call to the appropriate person or department. Always inform the caller who they will be speaking with and provide the extension number.
6. Taking messages: If the person the caller is trying to reach is unavailable, take a message and ensure that it is delivered promptly.
7. Ending the call: Before ending the call, ask if there is anything else you can assist the caller with. Always thank the caller for calling and say goodbye.

Remember to speak clearly and professionally, and to maintain a positive and helpful attitude at all times.