Receptionist Interview

  
Receptionist interview: tips and questions.

The receptionist is usually the first voice heard, and first person seen, by clients or customers contacting a company.  Although it may not appear to be particularly complicated career choice, it is; in fact, particularly important.  The receptionist’s role can be one which gains or loses the company a considerable amount of business.

A receptionist needs to have a good standard of English, excellent phone manner, accurate typing and must be exceptionally polite when speaking to the general public or clients.  There are many tasks a receptionist will do on a daily basis, including taking messages, receiving mail and signing for special delivery items, general clerical work and filing, booking appointments and in some companies, keeping holiday schedules.

A receptionist must be reliable, cheerful, know where everyone is, and what their role is, must be able to manage a busy telephone system, whilst remaining calm and keeping their cool.

A good general education is necessary, but a university degree isn’t required.

Read more:

– Receptionist CV Example

– Receptionist CV Template

– Receptionist cover letter example

The interview

Although there are receptionists of all ages, the majority of them start after leaving school or college.  This may be the first interview which you have attended and so you are likely to be nervous.  Find out some information about the company before the interview, and then if you are asked if you have any questions, you can comment or enquire about something on the website.  This also shows the interviewer that you are interested in the company.

What can you do for this company? Interview Question
Why are you the best person for the job? Interview Question
Is there anything I haven’t told you? Interview Question
What do you know about this company? Interview Question
Why do you want to work here? Interview Question

Dress smartly for the interview, although it isn’t necessary to wear a suit.  Make sure that you know where the company is, and take a practice run the day before so you are certain where you are going.  Allow plenty of time for travelling and arrive at the interview in good time.

When you meet the interviewer, make sure that you smile.  When you answer questions, keep the answer straightforward, and keep on the topic.  Look at the interviewer and not at the floor.  If you don’t hear a question properly, ask for it to be repeated.  If the interviewer wants more information from you, they will prompt you with another question.

Are you willing to travel? Interview Question
What are your salary expectations? Interview Question
Describe a difficult work situation project and how you overcame it
Give some examples of teamwork – Interview Question
What motivates you? Interview Question and Answer
What is your greatest weakness? Interview Question
Why do you want this job? Interview Question
What is your greatest strength? Interview Question

The interviewer may suggest that they can arrange day release at college.  It is always good to accept these offers which may lead to a qualification, and may mean that you get an increase in salary.

Tell me about yourself.
Why should we hire you?

The interviewer will make it obvious when the interview has ended.  Thank him and ensure that you say that you would like the job if it is offered to you.

View more typical interview questions.