So, you are exploring a career as a Receptionist but don't know where to start. The best place to begin your journey to assess the minimal educational requirements for this position, and in this case, it is obtaining a high school diploma. However, many employers now seek candidates who have earned a college or vocational degree in Administration, Secretarial Studies, or any other related fields.  

Most Receptionist positions are entry-level jobs that require minimal experience (usually between 0 and 2 years). However, prior Front Desk, Concierge, Customer Service, or other Hospitality experience is often preferred, and proficiency working with a customer relationship management (CRM) software. Not only that, but a good, foundational knowledge of technology is also required.  

Receptionists could have to work overtime when required to meet deadlines or facilitate the planning and execution of special events. Their work schedule will solely depend on the establishment's opening and closing hours. Event planning is not typically a requirement for the job, but it helps to have the talent and skill for putting an event together seamlessly. 

Receptionists should also give some consideration to how their phone etiquette and customer service skills. Understandably, outstanding customer service abilities are essential for this job, but a successful candidate must also always remain polite, continuously smiling, and conveying a positive, can-do attitude. 

What Can Help You Become a Receptionist
When it comes to becoming a professional Receptionist, either in the corporate, medical, or other equally important industries, there are essential skills needed to excel in your career. Receptionists usually have an innate ability for being detailed and possess high levels of thoroughness, which come in handy when needing to stay focused during highly repetitive tasks. Here are some more must-haves to excel in the world of administration:  
 

• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills to communicate, both in writing and verbally, to inform and assist clients, employees, and other visitors.
• Impeccable and professional phone demeanor, possessing a friendly and engaging personality to foster and maintain positive client relationships.  
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills and the ability to prioritize and plan work activities efficiently while handling a high volume and diverse workload.  
• Excellent multitasking skills and the ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.  
• Superior analytical and problem-solving skills; effectively reading and interpreting information and instructions and using creativity and mature judgment to resolve problems promptly.  
• Demonstrated proficiency in computer word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications, the ability to type at a speed rate of 40 to 60 words per minute, and operate essential office equipment, such as copiers and printers.  
• Outstanding levels of flexibility, responsiveness, and resourcefulness to learn and adapt while facing continuously changing demands and extensive knowledge of standard office practices.  
• Exceptional levels of patience and tolerance and possessing strong customer service skills to anticipate other people's needs and handle their requests proactively, diplomatic, and tactfully.