Receptionists and Information Clerks

About the Role

Receptionists and Information Clerks are the face of an organization, managing front desk operations and providing information to clients and visitors.

Other Common Titles

Front Desk Associate
Administrative Assistant
Customer Service Representative
Office Clerk
Receptionist

Typical Tasks

Greet and welcome visitors in a friendly manner.
Answer and direct phone calls to appropriate personnel.
Manage the appointment calendar and scheduling.
Provide information about services and direct inquiries accordingly.
Maintain a clean and organized reception area.
Handle and sort incoming and outgoing mail and packages.
Perform basic administrative duties like filing and data entry.

Notable People

Patricia M. McGee – A well-respected office manager and receptionist trainer known for developing best practices in customer service for front desk operations.
Angela Davis – A prominent civil rights activist who once worked as a receptionist, using her position to support community engagement and activism.

Recommended Resources

The Art of Reception
A comprehensive guide to essential skills and strategies for effective reception and customer service.
Receptionist Essentials
A blog dedicated to providing resources and advice for receptionists and front desk professionals.
Working the Reception Desk Podcast
A podcast featuring tips and interviews with successful receptionists and information clerks.
National Receptionist Week
A celebration of the contributions of receptionists, offering resources and community engagement opportunities.