What Do I Think About Reception?
Christina Maslova
Founder & CEO of "Lo Resol" LLC | C-Level Bilingual EA | Writer | Columnist | Co-Founder of PA Club Russia & CIS | Founder of BEST PA AWARD | TG: @WHWEAM / @allaboutpa
Once I've heard a very interesting opinion that secretary person it’s just – tea\coffee, meet guests… To say that I was “a little bit” surprised – it’s to say nothing. The true is that the modern world is very fast, very energetic, and to meet the requirements every person in your team should be Very Professional. And the reception secretary is part of it and the first one to prove the company’s image. Personally, I think that reception person should not have a lot of experience. It’s easier to learn how to work in your company and help to set up the proper mind and understanding of the processes. But, in general, what do we look for when we try to find the “ideal” candidate for this role?
Look. Definitely. You will never afford jeans or extra make up. The understanding of how you should look like on this position, one of the key success to get the job. And Fridays are not an exception.
Smile. It’s easy to bring coffee. But, is it easy to be happy to see everybody from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.? If you have never tried – do this. Just try. I would say, that sometimes this job would be more complicated than to be a PA.
Willing to help everyone. Absolutely everyone. And, how about this? To find the proper solution even if you do not know where to run.
Answering the phone calls. 10th, 50th, 100th… With smile in voice and absolute desire to convince the caller that we are happy to hear him\her.
Punctuality. And better to come in advance for 10-15 minutes to be able have a look if everything is fine in conference rooms and etc. The reception person just cannot be late. Cannot. That’s it.
This is at least what I have thought about when was searching for “ideal” candidate. And the list is not full. However, we used to think that every person could be easily replaced, well, yes, it’s true. But, to find the right one it could become your real headache. I convinced that reception secretary is a very complicated job, and true professionals can grow from this profession.
Executive Assistant at Reiser
6 年These attributes certainly sound ideal.
Innovative and solution-oriented professional with a proven track record of excellence.
6 年As someone looking for a receptionist right now, I agree with Christina's points and trying to find that fit is not always easy.
I worked as a receptionist 10 years ago in Bahrain and it's a vital position as everyone else's in a corporate structure. You're usually the first and last person they see and in between. Who are you and how you treat people from all walks of life reflect the image of the Company. You can create a lasting impression from walk ins or actual visitors. You must be a reliable support to any department that requires your help, and you guard your place and never leave it empty. So yes, it's not a menial job. It's like a tooth that hurts and is felt by the whole body. ??