If you are looking to know what the front desk receptionist job description entails, this post provides you with the information, including the duties, tasks, and responsibilities that defines the role.
It also provides templates for the front desk receptionist job description that employers can use.
You will also learn about the skills, abilities, experience, etc. that commonly form most employers’ requirements for hiring for the front desk receptionist position.
What Does a Front Desk Receptionist Do?
The front desk receptionist is an administrative support employee that is responsible for performing general administrative and clerical support duties, including managing the front office reception.
They work in various sector of the economy including: retail businesses, hotels, healthcare organizations, insurance companies, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, automobile companies, etc.
Their job description entails providing excellent customer service to customers, guests, walk-ins, etc.
They connect and understand the guest/customer needs and refer them to appropriate units when necessary.
In a hotel, the front desk receptionist’ role involves crafting the guests’ experience: they check them in, assign rooms, and ensure luggage and needs are in the room ready.
They also ensure guest departures are smooth. They communicate with guests and customers at the highest level of hospitality and integrity, and accommodate guests’ special requests whenever possible.
Hotel front desk receptionists also provide housekeeping duties to ensure the front/reception area is safe and clean at all times.
They are also responsible for handling minor customer issues, resolving complaints from guests who are not satisfied with the hotel’s services, and escalating issues beyond their capacity to resolve when necessary in a timely manner.
Front desk receptionist work description also entails enforcing basic security procedures in the organization by monitoring log book, notifying the security officer about unescorted guests and emergency situations; and also assisting in issuing guest passes and employee ID cards.
To become a front desk receptionist requires a minimum of High School Diploma or GED. Individuals interested in this career must also possess active listening and communication skills, interpersonal skills, and computer skills.
They must also possess phone handling skills, ability to work under pressure, and technical skills, as well as customer service skills to be successful on the job.
Front Desk Receptionist Job Description Example/Sample
The front desk receptionist is the first point of contact for customers, guests, and walk-ins. They perform various functions, including providing clerical and customer support duties.
The front desk receptionist job description consists of the following major tasks, duties, and responsibilities:
- Responsible for receiving visitors by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or referring inquiries
- Maintains employee and department directories as a guide for directing visitors
- Offers beverage to guests where necessary
- Schedules meetings and travel for executives, as well as appointments for customers
- Documents and communicates actions, irregularities, and continuing needs to maintain continuity among work teams
- Contributes to team effort when required
- Operates telephone switchboard; answers and transfers calls to appropriate units
- Takes messages and communicates them to appropriate enquirers
- Handles outgoing mails; sorts and distributes incoming mails
- Responsible for placing outgoing calls and conference calls as needed
- Drafts, reviews, and proofreads office documents
- Responsible for basic data entry as assigned
- Maintains and stocks basic office supplies
- Responsible for operating and maintaining office machines, including printers, copiers, and fax
- Ensures compliance with company rules and regulations in the reception area.
Front Desk Receptionist Requirements – Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities for Career Success
If you are seeking the job of a front desk receptionist, the recruiter or employer will likely require that you possess certain abilities, competence, skills, etc. as a proof that you will be effective in performing the objectives, purpose, and obligations of the position that will be assigned to you.
Shown below are major front desk receptionist requirements you may be expected to satisfy if you are seeking the role:
- Education: Individuals require a minimum of a High School Diploma or GED to work as a front desk receptionist
- Customer service skills: They require the ability to provide customer support in a prompt, friendly, and timely manner. They must also be able to follow-up on a case through to resolution
- Stress management skills: Front desk receptionists require the ability to maintain composure in high pressure and fast-paced environment
- Self- starter and team player: They must be able to work both independently as well as in a team oriented environment to accomplish assigned tasks and goals
- Listening and communication skills: They require the ability to actively listen to customers or guests to deduce what their real needs are. They must also possess great oral communication skills to effectively communicate customers’ interest needs and requests to management and appropriate units; as well as written communication skills for filing and documentation
- Professionalism: They must be enthusiastic, respectful, and friendly; with a professional and welcoming presentation, and most importantly, possess a positive attitude
- Phone handling skills: Receptionists require solid phone handling etiquette to respectfully engage with guests and customers; and to promptly and efficiently handle a multi-line telephone system
- Interpersonal skills: It is vital that they possess strong interpersonal skills to relate easily with people of various background and personalities. It is also required to help them establish relationships and build rapport with employees, customers, and guests
- Computer skills: Front desk receptionists should be proficient with Microsoft Office tools and possess strong keyboarding skills to perform their job successfully
- Organizational skills: They must be Well-organized, detail-oriented, and multi-tasking, with the ability to effectively prioritize assignments. It is also important that they can adapt to change easily
- Technical skills: They require basic skills for operating and maintaining office machinery.
Front Desk Receptionist Job Description Templates
Here are front desk receptionist job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Front Desk Receptionist
Reports To: Office Manager / Administrative Manager / General Manager
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is committed to delivering outstanding service and creating a welcoming environment for all guests, clients, and employees. We value professionalism, efficiency, and exceptional customer support across all departments. Our front desk team plays a key role in shaping the first impression visitors have of our organization.
Position Overview
We are seeking a friendly, organized, and professional Front Desk Receptionist to manage daily front desk operations, greet visitors, answer inquiries, and provide administrative support. The ideal candidate is customer-focused, detail-oriented, and comfortable handling multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
The Front Desk Receptionist serves as the face of the company and supports smooth business operations by coordinating communication, managing records, and assisting staff and guests.
Key Responsibilities
Guest & Visitor Management
- Greet visitors, clients, and employees with a friendly, professional demeanor.
- Check in guests, verify appointments, and notify the appropriate staff.
- Maintain a clean and organized reception area.
- Provide directions, answer general inquiries, and assist with visitor needs.
Phone & Communication Support
- Answer incoming calls, respond to messages, and route calls to the appropriate departments.
- Manage company email inboxes or communication channels as needed.
- Provide accurate information regarding company services, hours, and procedures.
Administrative & Clerical Duties
- Schedule and confirm appointments or meetings.
- Assist with filing, scanning, copying, and data entry tasks.
- Receive and distribute mail, packages, and deliveries.
- Maintain office supplies and notify management when inventory is low.
- Support staff with administrative projects as needed.
Recordkeeping & Documentation
- Maintain visitor logs, reports, or internal documents.
- Update databases, calendars, and contact lists accurately.
- Ensure confidentiality of sensitive information at all times.
Customer Service & Problem Resolution
- Handle inquiries and resolve minor concerns efficiently.
- Escalate complex issues to supervisors or the appropriate departments.
- Provide exceptional customer service to enhance the guest experience.
Operational Support
- Assist with onboarding tasks such as providing badges or access cards.
- Support meeting room scheduling and preparation.
- Coordinate with other departments to ensure smooth daily operations.
Skills & Qualifications
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Professional appearance and positive attitude.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and office equipment.
- Comfortable learning new software, scheduling tools, or phone systems.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred.
- Previous receptionist, front desk, or administrative experience preferred.
- Customer service experience in an office or service environment is a plus.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Office, clinic, hotel, or service-based environment depending on the organization.
- Requires sitting or standing for extended periods.
- Regular use of phones, computers, and office equipment.
- May require occasional lifting of up to 20–25 lbs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any protected category.
Additional Information
- Uniform or dress code may be required.
- Opportunities for career growth may be available.
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their resume and application to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About the Role
We are seeking a friendly and organized Front Desk Receptionist to greet visitors, manage phone calls, and support daily administrative operations. This role creates a positive first impression and helps ensure smooth office functioning.
Key Responsibilities
- Greet and check in visitors with a professional, welcoming attitude
- Answer phones, route calls, and respond to inquiries
- Manage reception area cleanliness and visitor logs
- Schedule appointments and assist with calendar coordination
- Handle mail, packages, and office supply requests
- Assist with filing, data entry, copying, and other clerical tasks
- Provide excellent customer service and support to staff and guests
Requirements
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Professional appearance and demeanor
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
- Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, email, scheduling tools)
- Prior receptionist or administrative experience preferred
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Submit your resume to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
Front Desk Receptionist Job Description for Resume
If you have worked before as a front desk receptionist or presently working in that role and are making a new resume or CV, then you can craft a compelling Professional Experience section by utilizing the front desk receptionist job description sample above.
You can highlight the duties you have performed or currently performing as a front desk receptionist in your resume’s Professional Experience by applying the ones in the sample front desk receptionist job description above.
This will show to the employer that you have been successful in the role of a front desk receptionist, which can greatly enhance your chances of being hired for the new position that you are seeking, especially if it requires someone with some front desk receptionist work experience.
Conclusion
If you are hiring for the position of front desk receptionist, you will need to make and publish the job description to help interested individuals learn about what the role entails.
This post contains front desk receptionist job description templates that you can apply in creating a detailed description of the position in your company to enable you attract the best qualified candidates for the job.
You will also find this article useful if you are interested in the front desk receptionist career. It will help increase your understanding of the duties and responsibilities of the role.
