Receptionists/Front Desk Personnel

Individuals who answer telephones, route calls, greet visitors, respond to inquiries from the public and provide information about the organization. In addition, receptionists contribute to the security of an organization by helping to monitor the access of visitors. The specific responsibilities of receptionists vary with the type of establishment in which they work. Receptionists in hospitals and in doctors' offices, for example, may gather patients' personal and financial information and direct them to the proper waiting rooms. In beauty or hair salons, receptionists arrange appointments, direct customers to the hairstylist and may serve as cashiers. In factories, large corporations and government offices, they may provide identification cards and arrange for escorts to take visitors to the proper office. Those working for bus and train companies respond to inquiries about departures, arrivals, stops and other related matters.