A receptionist role is often the first step toward a rewarding career in administration or customer service. Like any other position, though, it’s important to understand how to make the most of it. Here’s how you can build a strong professional image, develop essential skills, and use this opportunity as a launching pad for long-term career growth.
Professionalism
Whether this is your first job or your tenth, you can make a great impression through your professionalism at work. Always show up on time, or even a few minutes early. Dress for success, using both your company’s written guidelines and your own common sense. Always greet people, whether face to face or on the phone, with a warm and helpful tone. Carefully consider any feedback you receive, and don’t be afraid to speak up if you have questions or concerns. Remember, this job could be the first rung of your career ladder, so always take it seriously.
Skill Building
A receptionist role is an excellent place to start building your administrative skills. Highly transferrable receptionist skills include, but are not limited to:
- Communication
- Multi-tasking
- Organization
- Customer service
- Flexibility
- Dependability
You may also have the opportunity to hone your technical skills, such as:
- Computer systems
- Databases
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
- Professional e-mail writing
- Photocopiers, fax machines, or other office tools
Leveraging Your Experience
If your goal is to climb the career ladder, you’ll need to find ways to leverage your receptionist role. Start networking both inside and outside your current company. Save copies of any awards or accolades you receive. Let your supervisor know you are interested in moving up. Build a resume that highlights your accomplishments and craft a short elevator pitch that explains what you want to do next.
Work with a Staffing Agency
Taking that next step in your career isn’t always easy. A staffing agency can help you fine-tune your goals, enhance your resume, and practice for upcoming interviews. We also have access to job opportunities that aren’t posted on public sites. We take pride in helping candidates find success, and our services are entirely free of charge for job seekers.
Ready for your next role?
Cardinal Staffing has been matching candidates across Ohio and Michigan with just the right administrative positions for more than 30 years. With deep roots in these areas, we’re experts on the local job markets. If you’re ready to take the next steps in your administrative career, contact us to learn more or start searching for your next position today!