What is the most important skill required for a Receptionist ?
Asked by alishba k
what are the other imperative skills that i need to check while interviewing a candidate for a post of receptionist.

Best Answer:
Assertive enough to get answers from people but not unpleasant. For example if someone walks in and wants to go straight past her and go down a hall she needs to ask who he is looking for and offer to call the person to see if they are in. They might be an important business contact so she can't be rude but you can't have people running around when you don't know why they are there. When I am doing it I usually ask them if I can help them find someone, but they know I insist not just asking. Receptionist besides controlling visitors need to be able to call 911 or security if there is a problem and deal with rude callers with the correct level of taking it or not. Receptionist in most places also use computers, copiers and fax machines, knowing Word and Excell may be mandatory and being willing to fax something or copy something for anyone who asks without growling, but when to not be abused with constant last minute work dumped on them.. So I would say a decent amount of maturity and self confidence and software skills would be what I would look for.

Patience, is easy going and knows how to multi-task!!
Answered by Bonzieboo

I have had a few receptionist jobs in my life. The #1 most important thing is that she's a people person and outgoing and likes to visit with customers and make them feel welcome because the first impression of the company is everything! 2nd......does she have a good phone voice and does she sound friendly and professional.....one way to know this is to listen to her carefully when you call them on the phone. And also it doesn't hurt if she's really good-looking:) Good Luck with the interviewing!!:)
Answered by Kar-lay

1. imperative to be able to communicate in a friendly manner to customers or clients. I could care less if they type fast, if they are nice to me and can communicate. Make sure they look up when someone comes in and can say Hi! It must be hard because I go to many places, and you can barely get the person (usually female) to look up. 2. Must look neat. Okay, gorgeous is okay, if they don't wear low cut tops down to you know where unless your customers are all men.
Answered by it's only me

Being able to handle many things. Computer skills, especially typing, phone etiquette, good with people, a lot of patiences, to be able to produce under pressure. Organizational skills is always nice to have. Common sense will go a long way. Personality will definitely be a plus...able to work as a team player. Smile, Friendliness and the ability to help others. (the manager, other staff members, customers, etc.)
Answered by happy heart

1. Dependability and loyalty to superior. 2. Enjoy people, be friendly, courteous, helpful, and answer the phone promptly. 3. The job can be repetitious (as all do). You will know within a month or so if you like the position. To me, as an entrepreneur, this is probably the most important position in a company. 4. The receptionist is the first contact the customer/client makes when they walk into the company or phone the company switchboard or desk. 5. Be positive with your voice. Give the world a smile. Good luck.
Answered by Betty D

ability to multi-task and not let the pressure show in the face. ex: answering an irate call, faxing a document, receiving a walk-in client, offering a cup of coffee to another client waiting in the lobby, and maintaining a calm, friendly demeanor - all at the same time.
Answered by xtra0

Multi tasking, polite, friendly, doesn't rattle easily and is comfortable and at ease talking to many different types of people all day long, in person and on the phone. Willing to go the extra mile for the company and the customer. Dependable and honest.
Answered by next?

Hello, I'd say communication skills are a must for obvious reasons but also confidence and multi-tasking abilities. There is a great article on http://www.OfficeArrow.com about this subject. It's from the point of view of an Executive Assistant but I think it could benefit receptionists too. Check out the link to the full article in the source list. Hope it helps, Anna
Answered by Anna E

The first thing you want to look for is someone who has a good personality and can carry on a conversation. Everything else can be taught.
Answered by startwinkle05

The person must possess "people skills". That is, a person who can smile, talk, and use empathy when talking with people. They must also know telephone etiquette, light computer and typing skills. Also, have a professional appearance and enthusiasm to learn the company's needs as a receptionist. Experience is always good, but personality and attitude is key for this position.
Answered by sheri750

1. Good communication 2. Good rapport with clients in person and on the phone 3. Good, proper phone etiquette 4. Organizational skills 5. Good computer knowledge
Answered by Melanie