skills to put on resume for receptionist job

Receptionist Resume Sample for 2024 [Job Description, Skills & Tips]

A receptionist does much more than welcome, greet, and direct a company’s guests or clients. 

The job includes maintaining the security and telecommunications systems, providing information to customers by answering or redirecting their inquiries, and offering administrative support within the company, among others. 

As such, it’s not surprising at all if you’re stuck trying to put all that effectively on your receptionist resume. 

Fortunately, though, with the right guidance, writing an impactful receptionist resume can be easy, and we’re here to help!

Read our article to learn all you need to know about writing a receptionist resume! Here’s exactly what we’ll cover: 

• Receptionist Resume Example (Better Than 9 Out of 10 Examples)

8-Step Guide to Write Your Receptionist Resume

• 20+ In-Demand Skills to Put on Your Receptionist Resume

So let’s get to it! 

Receptionist Resume Example (to Inspire You)

Not sure where to start with your resume? Reviewing a receptionist resume example is a good start!

The resume example above does everything right, including: 

• Follows the chronological format. As the most popular format among recruiters worldwide, the chronological resume format is the way to go.
• Has a memorable resume profile. To show the recruiter they’re relevant as an applicant, the candidate has written a captivating resume summary. 
• Includes professional contact details. In addition to the must-have contact details, the receptionist resume example above also lists the applicant’s LinkedIn and Skype handles.
• Lists quantifiable achievements. The candidate has built a work experience section that focuses on achievements to stand out from other applicants. 
• Has a short education section. With plenty of work experience to show for, the receptionist resume example keeps their education section short. 
• Includes relevant skills. The candidate doesn’t list every skill under the sun, but only the ones that are relevant to the position. 
• Uses optional resume sections the right way. By adding their certificates and languages, the candidate has even better chances at standing out from the competition.
• Is based on a well-designed resume template . To avoid the hassle of building their resume from scratch, the receptionist resume example above was built using a plug-and-play template.   

Inspired by the receptionist resume example above?

Now it’s time to write yours! Below, we’ll walk you through the 8 essential steps for creating an effective receptionist resume, starting with:

#1. Choose the Right Format and Layout

When it comes to resumes, the structure is everything. 

You can be an amazing professional and you still won’t stand much chance if:

• Your resume sections are all out of order.
• Your resume is very hard to follow because of a messy structure.
• The resume looks unprofessional because you picked the wrong font . 

So, before you can start filling out the contents of your receptionist resume, you’ve got to first make sure its format and layout are just right.

When it comes to your resume format, the choice is quite easy. 

Out of the three resume formats ( chronological , functional (also known as skills-based), and combination ) you should go for the chronological resume format . It’s the most popular among recruiters everywhere in the world and successfully highlights your skills and achievements by putting your most recent work experience first. 

Here’s what it looks like: 

Now, when it comes to the layout, you’ll have to keep a few more things in mind:

• Keep your resume short. Unless you have 10+ years of experience, a 1-page resume is your best bet that recruiters will go through your entire resume. After all, they receive hundreds of applications daily—they don’t have time to read your resume if it’s the same length as a short novella. 
• Picking the right font size and style. Go for 11-12 pt font size for the body of your text and 13-14 pts for the section headers. As for the style, we recommend using a font that’s casual but professional, such as Ubuntu or Roboto. 
• Using section headers. Section headers are a good way to clearly separate your resume’s sections. 
• Saving your resume as a PDF file. Unless otherwise instructed in the job description, save your resume as a PDF . That way, you can be sure it will open as you intended it despite the device or OS that opens it. 

Or Skip Formatting and Layout Altogether By Using a Resume Template!

Imagine this:

You spend hours and hours tweaking your resume layout, only for it to look like a generic, black-and-white resume.

Not a good feeling, right?

Want to skip ahead of all the formatting hassle and jump right into filling in your contents? AND come out with a visually-appealing, short-n-snappy resume, all at the same time?

All you have to do is pick one of Novorésumé’s free, plug-and-play templates ! 

Our resume templates were made in collaboration with professional recruiters, which means they are easy to read and scan (and they’re ATS-friendly to boot!). 

And the best part? The templates look absolutely gorgeous (especially when compared to a standard black-and-white resume ): 

#2. Add More Than Your Traditional Contact Details 

The contact information section is the most straightforward part of writing a resume. 

Basically, all you have to do is list the following details:

• Professional title. 
• Phone number.
• Location (city and state/country).

Here’s how all that looks like on a receptionist resume: 

Receptionist

123-123-333

[email protected]

Scranton, PA

If you want to add some flavor to this section and you’re active on LinkedIn, you can include your profile’s URL link too. 

#3. Write a Compelling Resume Summary Summary/Objective

Put simply, your resume profile is a summary of you as a professional. 

The 2-3 sentence short paragraph goes at the top of your resume and aims to tell recruiters just enough to convince them to deep-dive into the rest of your resume.

Depending on your work experience level, you can write a resume profile as:

• A resume summary . If you are experienced in the field use a resume summary to sum up your title and years of experience, as well as your top skills and achievements.
• A resume objective . If you don’t have a lot to show for in terms of work experience, then you should go for a resume objective . To ace, it, mention any degree names or experience related to the field, the skills that you can offer the company, and your interest in working there. 

Here’s what a receptionist resume summary looks like:

Detail-oriented receptionist with 4 years of experience in customer service. Efficient in performing the administrative and front-desk tasks of large-scale offices. Fluent in Spanish and proficient in MS Office Suite. 

And here’s a receptionist resume objective:

Motivated communications graduate looking to apply their people and organizational skills as a receptionist at Company Z. Worked as Resident Assistant for 3 years and has hands-on experience on front desk duties, helping students solve problems, and dealing with administrational tasks.

#4. Make Your Work Experience Count 

Consider your work experience section as the backbone of your receptionist resume - it’s what recruiters will be checking to see whether you’ve got what it takes to excel at the job.  

To make this section count, first, make sure to format it the right way. Here’s what that involves: 

• Start with your current/most recent position and go backward in time. Keep your work entries relevant - the paper delivery job from your teens won’t help land you a receptionist job. 
• Begin each work entry with your professional title. Underneath, add the company's name and location, the period you worked there, and 3-5 of achievements and responsibilities in bullet points. 
• List fewer bullet points (1-2 for each work entry) as you go back in time. Your job from 10 years ago doesn’t need to be as comprehensively described as your last one.

After you’ve handled the formatting, you’ve got to make sure your professional experience shines through brighter than other candidates’. 

As hard as it may sound, we have some very effective tips to make that happen, including: 

• Focus on achievements over responsibilities whenever it’s possible. After all, recruiters know what the responsibilities of a receptionist are pretty well - it’s your achievements that can really help you stand out. 
• Quantify your achievements whenever you can. For example, instead of saying “handled incoming and outgoing calls effectively,” say “handled 100+ incoming and outgoing calls on a daily basis.”
• You can use the following formula to quantify your achievements : “accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z.” 

Here’s how a well-written work achievement would look like in a receptionist resume:

• Consulted regarding a redesign of the office scheduling system, increasing accuracy by 38%.
• Achieved 95% customer satisfaction score based on feedback forms.
• Handled successfully 100+ phone calls daily with no complaints during the last 2 years.

And here’s a less convincing achievement:

• Answered questions.
• Provided good customer service.
• Made phone calls.

The first example is achievement-oriented and the recruiter reading it knows how, exactly, you excelled at your last role.

The second example, though, is not as much. The recruiter knows that you worked as a receptionist… and that’s about it. They have no idea if you excelled at the role or not.

If you do have to list responsibilities and tasks on your Receptionist resume, make sure you’re using dynamic action words and strong verbs !

#5. Include Your Education 

The next step in creating your receptionist resume is to list your educational background.

Start by following this format:

• Add your latest and highest degree first. 
• Start off with the degree name, then the institution’s name, and the dates attended. 
• Don’t add your high-school education if you hold a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. 

Here’s how the education section should look like in a receptionist resume:

BA in Communication 

Penn State University, PA

Now, if you don’t have any work experience at all, you can use your educational history to help you stand out.

In such a case, you can make this section more elaborate by mentioning:

• Academic merits and achievements
• Relevant coursework taken
• Extracurricular activities  

BA in World Literature

• Graduated Summa Cum Laude
• Graduated first of the class in Communications
• Resident Advisor for 3 years

#6. Include Industry-Related Skills

You can definitely tell a good receptionist by the skills they possess. 

And that’s exactly why the skills section is another receptionist resume must-have. 

Of course, this includes a balance between soft skills (e.g. communication skills , time-management, multi-tasking), and hard skills (e.g. Microsoft Office, Supply Management). 

Keep in mind, however, that the key here is to list the right skills and not every single skill that you possess.

Sure, knowing Adobe Illustrator is great, but it won’t help much with your job as a receptionist. 

So, first, go through our list below and include the must-have receptionist skills in your resume (the ones that you do possess, that is).

Then, go through the job ad you’re applying for and see if you missed an important skill or two. Make sure that the skills you’ve listed match the ones required for the role (as long as you actually possess them, of course).

20+ Receptionist Soft and Hard Skills to Put on a Receptionist Resume

Receptionist soft skills.

• Verbal and written communication
• Professionalism
• Customer focus
• Organization and planning
• Handling pressure and tolerating stress
• Attention to detail
• Reliability
• Multitasking
• Conflict resolution
• Problem-solving
• Prioritizing
• Time Management

Receptionist Hard Skills

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Administrative skills
• Supply management
• Typing skills (include WPM)
• Information management software
• Use of office equipment (fax machines, copiers, etc)
• Multi-line phone systems

#7. 5 Additional Sections to Take Advantage Of

At this stage, if your resume is already a full one-pager, you can just skip this section altogether.

If, on the other hand, you’ve got some space left (e.g. if you don’t have a lot of work experience), you can make use of these extra sections to give your receptionist resume an edge:

• Awards and certifications. Are you certified in office management? Do you have any awards for excellent performance in any of your previous roles? These are definitely things you should include in your receptionist resume. 
• Languages. Whatever your position might be, knowing an extra language or two can always come in handy.
• Volunteer experience. Volunteering can be a great way to show you also care about giving back to the community. If you’re a recent graduate, volunteering experience can also show employers that you’re familiar with hard work.
• Internships. Got any past internship experience? Make sure to include that in your resume, along with your main tasks and achievements there. 
• Hobbies and interests . Show the recruiter who you are outside of work. Who knows, maybe it’ll help you establish rapport with your interviewer!

The thing about extra sections is that they work on two levels: if you’re lacking work experience, they can definitely help you land an entry-level job, whereas if you’re experienced in the field, they can set you apart from other applicants with similar work experience and skills. 

Here’ an example of how extra sections should look in a receptionist resume:

Examples of Extra Sections

Certifications.

• Microsoft Office Specialist - Issued by Microsoft
• Certified Business Officer - Issued by the Management and Strategy Institute

Volunteer Experience

Front Desk Assistant  Scranton Community Center 06/2010 - 10/2012

• Helped staff with daily clerical tasks and activities
• Got hands-on experience doing administrational work
• French (Fluent)
• German (Intermediate)

#8. Don’t Forget to Include a Cover Letter

Including a cover letter with your resume is an inseparable part of sending a job application.

As such, it’s safe to assume that it should be just as good as your receptionist resume. 

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter shouldn’t just rephrase whatever you mentioned in your resume.

Rather, you should use it to:

• Summarize your most important skills, achievements, or experiences.
• Expand on any information you couldn’t talk about in detail in your receptionist resume.
• Mention what you know about the organization you’re applying for (and why you want to work there).

Here are our tips on creating a compelling receptionist cover letter:

• Tailor your cover letter to the specific job position you’re applying for. Instead of using a generic cover letter introduction, start your cover letter by introducing yourself and mentioning exactly why you want to work for that company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to talk about your skills, achievements, and qualifications in more detail. 
• Write a strong cover letter ending by including a strong call to action. 
• Make sure that your cover letter looks as compelling as your resume by using one of our cover letter templates . 
• Learn more about how to write a compelling cover letter by checking out our cover letter tips .

Not sure what a good receptionist cover letter looks like? Check out our top cover letter examples !

We hope you are feeling more confident about creating your receptionist resume and we are sure you will get hired in no time!

Related Resume Examples

• Customer Service Resume
• Event Planner Resume
• Bar and Restaurant Manager Resume
• Cashier Resume
• Waiter Resume
• Server Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume

Key Takeaways 

Follow the steps we outlined above, and you’ll have yourself a job-winning receptionist resume in no time!

Before you leave to work on your resume, though, let’s recap the key learning points we covered above:

• Use a resume summary or objective to summarize your experiences and show the recruiter that you’re relevant for the role.
• Mention achievements over responsibilities when possible. This helps show the recruiter how you excelled in your previous role.
• Quantify your work experiences by using the XYZ formula.
• Use some of the optional resume sections to help you stand out. This includes languages, hobbies, extracurricular activities, and more.

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

How to List Receptionist Skills on a Resume

Quick Navigation:

Why employers want to see receptionist skills on your resume

Tips for listing receptionist skills on a resume, best receptionist skills to add to a resume, how to improve receptionist skills.

Receptionist skills show an employee’s ability to represent a company or industry. These can include but are not limited to organizational methods, communication with clients, time management, overall professionalism and much more. This article discusses the best receptionist skills to list on a resume and how to highlight those relevant skills on your resume. 

In many companies, the receptionist is the face that clients see the most often and the overall organizer for the company. The skills required to be a receptionist vary depending on the job but many receptionist skills are applicable to any industry. Receptionist skills demonstrate professionalism, organization, communication abilities, comfort with technology, ability to multitask and much more. 

Demonstrating these skills on your resume is important for many job applications. For example, if you describe your responsibilities as a receptionist for a dentist’s office as developing positive relationships with young patients and maintaining a schedule for over 80 clients, the person reading your resume will interpret this as an ability to organize for a large team and that you have excellent communication skills. 

The following list of tips explain how to include skills on a receptionist resume:

Provide detailed descriptions

As a receptionist, you might spend most of your day answering phones and sending emails. You are the front line of communication between the business and external customers. Strong communication skills are key to success in this role. Consider a time in which solid communication skills led to your success.

Example: ‘Earned ‘Employee of the Month’ recognition for interpreting project changes and thoroughly communicating updates to project managers.’

Use metrics

Add clear metrics to your work experience descriptions as employers translate data as solid proof of your accomplishments. Consider a previous situation in which an event occurred that involved a specific metric.

Example: ‘After initiating a revamp of the project closing process over the phone, customer satisfaction improved by 21%.’

Include job-specific keywords

It is helpful to review each job posting for keywords that are specific to the receptionist role you are applying for. These keywords and phrases stand out to employers and keyword searching scans. They also make your resume appear more relevant when referencing job-specific details.

Example:  ‘Handled the onboarding process for clients before introducing them to their assigned project managers. Created new client profiles within the main database with full contact information and project details.’

Use adjectives for proficiency levels

Always be honest when writing your resume, especially when it comes to proficiency levels in each skill that you list. You can include a separate ‘Skills’ list and use adjectives to explain your level of experience when describing a particular skill. 

Example: ‘Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook’

Here are some of the most common skills to include on your receptionist resume:

• Professionalism.  Highlight the experience you have representing a company, in terms of behavior and appearance. 
• Organization. Describe how you organize not only your own routine but also that of your colleagues. 
• Ability to multitask. Explain how you can juggle your daily tasks while maintaining professionalism and good customer service, even with distractions and interruptions.
• Attention to detail.  This skill involves making sure procedures are exact and that you follow rules and regulations. 
• Technology skills. This can include typing ability, proficiency with word processing programs, spreadsheets and file-sharing systems.
• Social media. To be successful in this role, it is beneficial to show how social media can be utilized within a company to keep clients informed and represent the company in a positive light.
• Confidence.  Showing your manager and your clients that you are confident and reliable reflects positively on your work ethic and builds a strong reputation for the company. 
• Communication.  Show that you have solid interpersonal and customer service skills. 
• Friendliness.  This includes maintaining a positive attitude, remaining calm and courteous, and responding cheerfully to incoming calls.
• Interpersonal skills.  Discuss how you can work closely with a variety of different people and how you respond with the appropriate conflict resolution methods when necessary. 

Here are some ways you can improve your receptionist skills: 

1. First, become comfortable with any required computer software

It is important for a receptionist to keep their technology skills up to date. This could even involve taking short online courses, if necessary, to stay current. 

2. Next, take notes to improve your organization skills

If it helps with your daily organization, get in the habit of making frequent notes. Actively writing down key information can help it stick in your mind, and is also a good resource to refer to later.

3. Third, create a script so you can communicate professionally at all times

It can sometimes be challenging to remember to say everything that is required during all the many interactions of a typical workday. It can be useful to develop a script so that you use similar language to welcome visitors, answer the phone and respond to customers with correct or consistent answers to their questions.

4. Fourth, learn how to deal with challenging people

Staying calm when faced with interruptions is a very useful skill to work on improving. Learn how to maintain a positive demeanor even when talking to a difficult client.

5. Next, practice active listening skills

Maintaining eye contact and asking clarifying questions if necessary can be very beneficial for developing your active listening skills.

6. Sixth, use downtime to practice a new skill

It is important to be working on something, even during slow times. Downtime can be the perfect opportunity to improve skills even further by studying manuals or becoming familiar with a new computer system.

7. Then, exercise professionalism with coworkers

It’s a good idea to avoid becoming involved in office gossip. As a receptionist, you might process private information or be asked to assist with confidential situations or materials, so you should always be discreet and respect the privacy of the company and individuals.

8. Finally, build your own confidence in the workplace

Always take pride in your work and demonstrate that you know you have performed your assigned tasks to the best of your abilities. Ask for help or seek extra training if you need to improve any of your skills.

Almost all receptionist skills can be used in most office management jobs. Also, most receptionist skills build on many strengths you may not even realize you have such as interpersonal communication and being comfortable with technology. By identifying these skills and perfecting them, you help make yourself a strong candidate in any industry.

Resume Worded   |  Resume Skills

Skill profile, receptionist, improve your resume's success rate by using these receptionist skills and keywords ..

• Hard Skills and Keywords for your Receptionist Resume
• ATS Scan : Compare Your Resume To These Skills
• Sample Resume Templates
• How To Add Skills
• Soft Skills for Receptionist Roles
• Receptionist More Resume Templates

Resume Skills and Keywords from Related Jobs

Frequently asked questions.

• 3. Effective Action Verbs for your Resume

Get a Free Resume Review

Looking for keywords for a specific job search for your job title here., © 2024 resume worded. all rights reserved., receptionist resume keywords and skills (hard skills).

Here are the keywords and skills that appear most frequently on recent Receptionist job postings. In other words, these are the most sought after skills by recruiters and hiring managers. Go to Sample Templates ↓ below to see how to include them on your resume. Remember that every job is different. Instead of including all keywords on your resume, identify those that are most relevant to the job you're applying to. Use the free Targeted Resume tool to help with this.

• Receptionist Duties
• Microsoft Access
• Customer Service
• Administrative Assistance
• Social Media
• Front Office
• Telephone Reception
•  Find out what your resume's missing
• Administration
• Hospitality
• Office Administration
• Event Management
• Hotel Management
• Event Planning
• Food & Beverage
• Opera Reservation System

Resume Skills: Software

• MS Office Suite
• Google Workspace
• Microsoft Office Suite
• CRM Systems
• Google Suite
• Adobe Acrobat
• Microsoft Office suite
• PDF software
• CRM Softwares
• Adobe Suite
• Adobe AcrobatReader
• SharePoint.
•  Match your resume to these skills

Resume Skills: Office Suite

• Microsoft Office: Word

Resume Skills: Languages

• Spanish (Fluent)
• Spanish (fluent)

Resume Skills: Office

• Data Entry (75 WPM)
• Office Equipment Operation
• Front Desk Reception
• Telephone Etiquette
• Records Management
• Front-Desk Reception
• Email Management
• Client Handling
• Calendar Management
• Meeting Coordination

Resume Skills: Techniques

• Dispute Management
• Confidentiality Management
• Time Management

Resume Skills: Project Management Tools

Resume skills: other.

• Data Analysis
• Simplified Technical English

Resume Skills: Customer Service

• Problem solving
• Complaint Resolution
• Phone Etiquette
• Client Relations
• Conflict Resolution

Resume Skills: Additional

• CRM Software
• Negotiation skills

Resume Skills: Administrative Tools

• MS PowerPoint
• Google Sheets

Resume Skills: Organizational Tools

Resume skills: communication.

• Email Etiquette
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Business Telephony Systems (VoIP)
• Phone Etiquettes
• Email Correspondence
• Chat Support
• In-person Assistance

Resume Skills: Digital Communication Tools

Resume skills: administrative.

• Documentation
• Travel Arrangements
• Office Equipment Handling

Resume Skills: Electronic Equipment

• Multiline Telephone systems
• Photocopiers
• Fax machines
• Postage meters

Resume Skills: Booking Systems

• Microsoft Bookings

Resume Skills: Reception Tools

• Go Reception
• Smiles Front Desk Management

Resume Skills: Industry Knowledge

• Front Desk Operations
• phone etiquette
• appointment scheduling
• customer service
• managing check-ins/check-outs

Resume Skills: Customer Relationship Tools

Resume skills: time management.

• Calendar Planning
• Task Prioritization
• Document Control

Resume Skills: Billing & Accounting

• Accounts Receivable
• Expense Reports
• Payroll Assistance

  Where on my resume do I add these buzzwords? Add keywords directly into your resume's work experiences , education or projects. Alternatively, you can also include a Skills section where you can list your technical skills in order of your proficiency. Only include these technical skills or keywords into your resume if you actually have experience with them.

   Does your resume contain all the right skills? Paste in your resume in the AI Resume Scan ↓ section below and get an instant score.

Compare Your Resume To These Receptionist Skills (ATS Scan)

Paste your resume below and our AI will identify which keywords are missing from your resume from the list above (and what you need to include). Including the right keywords will help you get past Applicant Tracking Systems (i.e. resume screeners) which may scan your resume for keywords to see if you're a match for the job.

Sample Receptionist Resume Examples: How To Include These Skills

Add keywords directly into your resume's work experiences , education or skills section , like we've shown in the examples below. use the examples below as inspiration..

  Where on my resume do I add these buzzwords? Add keywords directly into your resume's work experiences , education or projects. Only include these technical skills or keywords into your resume if you actually have experience with them.

How do I add skills to a Receptionist resume?

Go through the Receptionist posting you're applying to, and identify hard skills the company is looking for. For example, skills like Telephone Reception, Microsoft Access and Administration are possible skills. These are skills you should try to include on your resume.

Add other common skills from your industry - such as Receptionist Duties, Front Office and Customer Service - into your resume if they're relevant.

Incorporate skills - like Hospitality, Tourism and Opera - into your work experience too. This shows hiring managers that you have practical experience with these tools, techniques and skills.

Communication is often an important component of the role of a Receptionist, so when writing your resume, include examples of how you communicated with stakeholders, team members or customers, or produced content.

Try to include examples of where you used your clerical skills, whether that's in your Receptionist roles or administrative-related experiences.

Try to add the exact job title, Receptionist, somewhere into your resume to get past resume screeners. See the infographic for how to do this.

Word Cloud for Receptionist Skills & Keywords

The following word cloud highlights the most popular keywords that appear on Receptionist job descriptions. The bigger the word, the more frequently it shows up on employer's job postings. If you have experience with these keywords, include them on your resume.

Receptionist Soft Skills

Here are common soft skills that appear on Receptionist job postings. Unlike hard skills, which refer to tools, software or techniques, soft skills focus on character traits and interpersonal skills. Instead of listing these phrases on your resume, try to show them through your bullet points like in the examples below.

• Communication
• Computer Literacy
• Public Speaking

Tip: Do not list these words or phrases on your resume, and instead focus on the hard skills we described above.

We also found variations and further specializations to your job title. Browse through the related job titles to find additional keywords that you can include into your resume.

• Medical Office
• Medical Records
• Electronic Medical Record (EMR)
• Medical Terminology
• Multi-line Phone
• Appointment Scheduling
• Medical Billing
• Health Insurance
• U.S. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Dental Software
• Dental Insurance
• Dental Assisting
• Patient Education
• Hotel Booking
• Back Office Operations
• Hospitality Management
• Reservations
• Switchboard
• Switchboard Operator
• Public Relations
• Insurance Verification
• Medical Coding

Get your Resume Instantly Checked, For Free

Upload your resume and we'll spot the issues in it before an actual receptionist recruiter sees it. for free., receptionist resume templates.

Here are examples of proven resumes in related jobs and industries, approved by experienced hiring managers. Use them as inspiration when you're writing your own resume. You can even download and edit the resume template in Google Docs.

Resume Example Professional

An effective Description of the templates...

Download this resume template

This resume template is suitable for experienced hires or mid-level hires. The education contains two examples of an education experiences, but only include one (your most recent one) if you're a senior level employee.

Tips on why this template works

   makes great use of space.

It strikes the right balance between white space and content, and doesn't waste space on unnecessary images and icons. Remember, recruiters aren't looking at how creative you are when it comes to your template. Your content is core and should be the focus.

   Strong resume bullet points

This job seeker uses resume bullet points that uses strong action verbs, and most importantly, contain numbers that demonstrate the significance of their accomplishments.

Resume Example Highlights (Free)

This template is clean, readable by resume screeners, and is effective at calling out key accomplishments and projects from specific work experiences. This would be useful if you have been at a company for a while, or been in a consulting-type of role, and want to point hiring managers to your most impressive accomplishments.

   Strong action verbs

Action verbs are important on your resume are vital. They evoke strong imagery to your reader, and this resume does an excellent job by using words such as “spearheaded,” “managed,” and “drove.” These words will help you to put your achievements in perspective, in conjunction with measurable results. Use action verbs relating to the skills you want to highlight.

   Specific examples of finished projects

Many of your accomplishments will involve your responsibilities in your employer's high-level projects. Recruiters want to see what you’ve completed in previous roles -- such as the Operations Improvement Project and new iPhone app launch highlighted in this resume. The numbers make your experience real, rather than a vague “oversaw several teams for a project.” What did you do specifically? Be specific.

Resume Example Modern Two-Column

This two column resume template has been designed and created in Google Docs, and puts an emphasis on a skills section. You can download it in Word, or edit it directly in Google Docs.

   Prioritize work experience, while including other key sections

The two-column in this Google Docs resume template prioritizes the work experience sections, while maximizing the content into the resume. Not all two column templates are ATS-compatible, but this one is when it is saved as PDF and passed through a resume screener.

   Includes a strong Skills section

Skills sections are a great way to include specific keywords and skills that you have, that haven't been included in other parts of your resume. This helps you get past resume screeners that scan your resume for specific keywords.

Resume Example Clean Modern

If you're a job seeker with a few years of experience under your belt, use a template like this one. It's simple, effective at highlighting our work experience, and minimizes the emphasis on the education section (the dates are omitted which is good to prevent ageism, especially if you graduated more than 10 years ago).

   Professionally-designed template

Minimal templates like this one are exactly what mid-to-senior level recruiters want to see - it shows professionalism, focuses on accomplishments, and makes full use of each page.

   Resume summary highlights key accomplishments

The first rule about including a resume summary is that it does not repeat accomplishments mentioned elsewhere on the resume. This resume stresses new software engineering and leadership skills right at the top of the resume, and includes an award too. If you include a summary, try to include a mix of both technical accomplishments (e.g. projects you developed or led), as well as career-related accomplishments (e.g. being promoted).

Resume Example Entry-Level (Free)

Use this Google Docs template if you're a student, recent graduate, or a career changer. Right out of college, you may not have much experience in the field. To supplement that, use your experience in clubs and activities, volunteering, projects, and useful coursework to help highlight your knowledge on the subject.

   Emphasis on education

If you're an entry-level job seeker that has recently completed education (or in the process of completing a degree), you should prioritize your education and include it first. This Google Docs template does this.

   University projects relevant to the job

If you're an entry level job seeker (or a career-changer), you may not have enough work experience to fill up your resume. This is where class projects and university projects come in. This template has a section dedicated to projects, which you can use to talk about volunteering, class projects, or personal projects relevant to the job.

Resume Example Concise

This is a suitable Google Docs resume template for all kinds of roles, including senior, entry-level and mid-level. Note how the focus is the work experience section only, and the education section is limited. This is what you should do if you graduated a while ago.

   Use a skills section to highlight specific keywords

To get past resume screeners and Applicant Tracking Systems, use a skills section that includes specific skills the job is looking for. This is an easy way to tailor your resume.

   Keep you education short, if you're a mid to senior level job seeker

What skills do hiring managers want to see on a Receptionist resume?

Some popular Receptionist hard skills are Receptionist Duties, Microsoft Access, Customer Service, Administrative Assistance, Social Media, Front Office, Telephone Reception and Administration. Depending on the job you apply to, skills like Tourism, Opera, Food & Beverage, Hotel Management and Hospitality can also be good to include on your resume.

What are the differences in resume skills between a Medical Office Receptionist and a Dental Receptionist?

What are good resume skills to include for different receptionist roles and job titles.

Depending on the specific role you apply to, you may need to emphasize different skill sets. Here are a few examples:

• Dental Receptionist : Dentrix, Receptionist Duties, Dentistry, Dental Software and Dental Insurance
• Hotel Receptionist : Hotel Management, Front Office, Hospitality, Tourism and Hotel Booking
• Medical Office Receptionist : Medical Office, Medical Records, Electronic Medical Record (EMR), Medical Terminology and Multi-line Phone
• Front Office Receptionist : Opera, Food & Beverage, Customer Service, Office Administration and Administration
• Desk Receptionist : Administrative Assistance, Switchboard, Microsoft Access, Typing and Data Entry

What are common Receptionist soft skills?

Examples of Receptionist soft skills include Phone Etiquette, Clerical Skills, Customer Satisfaction, Teamwork and Problem Solving.

Target your Resume to a Job Description

While the keywords above are a good indication of what skills you need on your resume, you should try to find additional keywords that are specific to the job. To do this, use the free Targeted Resume tool. It analyzes the job you are applying to and finds the most important keywords you need on your resume. It is personalized to your resume, and is the best way to ensure your resume will pass the automated resume filters. Start targeting your resume

Most resumes get auto-rejected because of small, simple errors. These errors are easy to miss but can be costly in your job search. If you want to make sure your resume is error-free, upload it to Score My Resume for a free resume review. You'll get a score so you know where your resume stands, as well as actionable feedback to improve it. Get a free resume review

Scan your skills and keywords.

Creating an account is free and takes five seconds. you'll get instant access to all skills and keywords, plus be able to score your resume against them - no strings attached., choose an option..

• Have an account? Sign in

E-mail Please enter a valid email address This email address hasn't been signed up yet, or it has already been signed up with Facebook or Google login.

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number. It looks like your password is incorrect.

Remember me

Forgot your password?

Sign up to get access to Resume Worded's Career Coaching platform in less than 2 minutes

Name Please enter your name correctly

E-mail Remember to use a real email address that you have access to. You will need to confirm your email address before you get access to our features, so please enter it correctly. Please enter a valid email address, or another email address to sign up. We unfortunately can't accept that email domain right now. This email address has already been taken, or you've already signed up via Google or Facebook login. We currently are experiencing a very high server load so Email signup is currently disabled for the next 24 hours. Please sign up with Google or Facebook to continue! We apologize for the inconvenience!

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number.

Receive resume templates, real resume samples, and updates monthly via email

By continuing, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Lost your password? Please enter the email address you used when you signed up. We'll send you a link to create a new password.

E-mail This email address either hasn't been signed up yet, or you signed up with Facebook or Google. This email address doesn't look valid.

Back to log-in

Find out what keywords recruiters search for. These keywords will help you beat resume screeners (i.e. the Applicant Tracking System).

   get a resume score., find out how effective your resume really is. you'll get access to our confidential resume review tool which will tell you how recruiters see your resume..

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

Build my resume

• Resume builder
• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• 184 free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

9 Receptionist Resume Examples for 2024

• Receptionist Resumes
• Receptionist Resume by Experience
• Receptionist Resumes by Role
• Write Your Receptionist Resume

Receptionists are found anywhere that requires a patient and professional approach to keeping an office on schedule.

Whether you’re interested in working in healthcare as a medical receptionist or as a front desk receptionist for an insurance firm, you must ensure your resume makes a great first impression.

Nothing is trickier than staring at a blank screen and waiting for inspiration to start creating a cover letter or the perfect resume , but that’s why we’re here. We’ll guide you through some of our top  resume tips  and ensure you have the tools and resources you need for success.

These receptionist resume samples have been used to land actual receptionist jobs in 2024, so they’re an excellent place for you to get started.

Receptionist Resume

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• There are tons of different kinds of receptionists working in a whole range of industries. Make it clear what kind of offices you’ve worked at when discussing your work experience.
• A  resume objective  (the two sentences below the job title) is by no means required on your receptionist resume. In fact, you’re likely better off not including one. There are a few exceptions to this rule, like when you’re undergoing a career change or want to take the time to customize it to each job for which you apply.
• However, if you’ve attended some college or earned a degree, then be sure to include it; it’ll be valuable in the eyes of your employer. If not, no worries. Just list the highest level of education you’ve obtained.

Front Desk Receptionist Resume

• If you have a lot of experience as a receptionist, one way to expand your career (and possibly make more money) is to become a Certified Administrative Professional (CAP). That requires studying for an exam, but for some people, it’s worth it.
• Try a reverse-chronological  resume format  to help you show steady career progression. 
• For example, perhaps you could tie the creation of reports in Excel to the number of manual hours saved.

Entry-Level Receptionist Resume

• Customer interaction, scheduling, and telephone communication are great examples—even if these examples come from internships, academic projects, or community volunteering.
• If you’ve ever received an award at work (even before your time as a receptionist), then make sure to mention it! Try to explain the context of the award (why you got it) without getting into too much detail. It’s a great way to show that you’re responsible and qualified.
• Focus on activities that demonstrate leadership or serious dedication.

Hotel Receptionist Resume

• Capitalize your ability to handle guest complaints and upsell room upgrades and services with quantifiable work experience for your hotel receptionist resume! Last but not least, mention your educational qualifications in hospitality management or a relevant field and you’re good to go.

Legal Receptionist Resume

• You may not have the best work experience as a legal receptionist, but that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from metrics of other similar roles. Revisit your career and see how many areas you’ve worked as a receptionist or clerk. Draw out exceptional metrics from these roles and highlight your specialty in lowering document misplacements or load times to score the job!

Veterinary Receptionist Resume

• That’s what you need to give yourself a deserved head start. In particular, show how your streamlined check-in and check-out processes and your input in improving post-outcomes.

Salon Receptionist Resume

• Additionally, show how you collaborated with the rest of the team to deliver exceptional services, leading to higher satisfaction ratings and turning first-time customers into loyalists.

Medical Receptionist Resume

• There are a number of organizations that grant these certifications. The largest one is the American Red Cross.
• Don’t hesitate to list any medical-specific  skills  you have, like electronic medical records (EMR) and insurance claims/coding.
• Fit your resume onto a single page (working with a  resume template  can help with this), or risk your medical receptionist resume ending up in the trash bin.
• Two quick levers to modify the number of pages are page margins and font size.

Dental Receptionist Resume

• Any domain-specific experience that you have provides a great opportunity to customize your resume for each job description . Simply mention those skills (such s “Paterson Eaglesoft”) in the  resume skills  section of your dental receptionist resume .
• One clear and direct way to show how you can get things done is to start each work experience bullet point with a strong action verb. In the resume above, words like “Confirmed,” “Assured,” and “Scanned”) do exactly that.
• We have a selection of classy accent colors you can choose from within our AI-powered and  easy-to-use resume creator . 

Related resume guides

• Front Desk Receptionist
• Administrative Assistant
• Office Assistant
• Human Resources

Formatting Your Receptionist Resume

The key to creating an exceptional receptionist resume is choosing the perfect format. While the format might seem like an arbitrary decision, it’s what will ensure your resume is readable, logical, and complete. A resume with no format at all is likely to be disorganized, and a resume with the wrong format won’t highlight the right information. Your resume’s structural foundation should allow all the other aspects to fall neatly into place.

You can  format your resume  by taking a few simple steps:

• Choosing between reverse-chronological, functional, and hybrid formats
• Listing your contact information to create a header
• Taking ATS and readability into account

Reverse-chronological, functional, and combination/hybrid formats

Before you can start writing your resume, you need to decide which particular format you’ll use. The three most popular  resume formats  in 2024 are reverse-chronological, functional, and combination/hybrid. Each of these styles has its benefits and disadvantages, and plenty of job candidates have found success using all of them.

Which resume format should you choose for your receptionist resume?

• The  reverse-chronological format  is the most common option across industries. With this format, relevant work history is listed and explained in reverse-chronological order. This means your most recent position will be listed first. The main advantage of the reverse-chronological format is that it highlights your most recent, and likely most relevant, achievements, which should represent the high point of an upward career trajectory.
• The  functional format  is meant to highlight and showcase the candidate’s skills. Work experience is pushed to the bottom of the document, while abilities and areas of expertise take center stage. While this can be a good option for younger candidates with little experience, many job recruiters are especially interested in work history, the very category that this format marginalizes.
• Combination/hybrid resumes  seek to make the most of both the reverse-chronological and functional formats. A hybrid resume will usually include work history listed in reverse-chronological order alongside a prominent skills component.

For your receptionist resume, it’s usually best to go with the reverse-chronological format. Recruiters and hiring managers are primarily interested in your work experience, so it makes sense to make it easy to find what they’re looking for.

Contact info and header

At the top of your resume, you need to lay out your name and contact information. This brief header will act as a business card, letting people know immediately who you are and how they can contact you. Stating this information clearly at the top of the page, as seen in our numerous  resume samples , will make it easier for recruiters to spot and file your resume.

in 2024, the header for a receptionist resume should include:

• The job title you’re seeking
• A phone number
• City and state 
• A professional social site, like LinkedIn, if you have one

To make it as easy as possible for recruiters to contact you, it’s important to make your header stand out. You can do this by increasing the font size for your name, using a splash of color, and/or bolding labels like “phone” and “email.”

Passing ATS and ensuring your receptionist resume is readable

We live in an increasingly technological world, something you’ll have to keep in mind when creating your receptionist resume. These days, many companies screen applicants using an applicant tracking system (ATS). This technology rapidly checks resumes for certain keywords before determining which candidates deserve a look from recruiters. For your resume to make the cut, you’ll need to consider how ATS works and what it looks for.

You can maximize your resume’s chances of finding favor with ATS by adopting a few key strategies. First of all, use an ATS-friendly file type like .pdf or .docx. Also, sprinkle some central keywords throughout the document, especially phrases that correspond to the soft and hard skills you’ve gained as a receptionist. Finally, make sure you avoid putting these keywords in the header where ATS might not find them.

It’s also important to make your resume as readable as possible. Maximize readability by taking a few basic steps:

• Include 1-inch margins (ideally) on every side of the document.
• Use a simple font like Times New Roman or Arial.
• Use 11-12-point font for general text and 14-16-point font for headers.
• Keep the titles of sections short and specific.
• Keep the entire resume on a single page.
• List your skills in a succinct, concise fashion.

Our convenient and  easy resume builder  takes all this into account, ensuring that your resume will be easy for recruiters to read.

Writing Your Receptionist Resume

If writing your receptionist resume seems a daunting task, you’re far from alone. Lots of people worry they’ll make costly mistakes and ruin their chances of landing the job. At this stage, it’s important to take a deep breath and acknowledge that you have what it takes to  write a fantastic resume . All you need to do is take it step by step and use our resume builder. This methodical approach will take the stress out of the process while helping you create a resume  that makes you stand out as a candidate.

Here’s what you’ll have to consider:

• Objective/Summary
• Work experience
• Receptionist skills 
• Education and certifications
• Projects, interests, and/or hobbies
• Tailoring your resume to the job
• Editing and proofreading

Do you need an objective or summary on your receptionist resume?

Some candidates place a brief description at the top of their resumes to draw immediate attention to their strongest qualities. These descriptions can take the form of an objective or a summary. A  resume objective  spells out the candidate’s career goals while a resume summary succinctly states a candidate’s qualifications. As you apply for receptionist positions, you’ll have to decide whether either of these options is right for your resume.

• A resume objective is ideal for candidates who are seeking to make a career change. Pronouncing your goals in a new field and explaining how your current skills will translate to your career as a receptionist will present you as a stronger applicant.
• A resume summary is great for someone with years of experience as a receptionist. The summary gives you a chance to highlight all you’ve accomplished.
• Including neither an objective nor a summary might be the right call for certain applicants. If you think your experience speaks for itself or if you simply don’t have room on the page, there’s nothing wrong with skipping this step altogether. Ultimately, you get to determine the best way to showcase your talent and experience.

If you decide to include a summary or objective, you must make them clear and succinct. Here are two examples that would do a prospective candidate more harm than good:

• Objective : I’m really excited to start work as a receptionist, something I’ve been thinking about for years. Getting a job as a receptionist would truly be a dream come true.
• Summary : I’m a great receptionist who has worked for several major companies. During my time in the profession, I’ve learned all the strategies and techniques necessary to excel.

These examples are boring and vague. They tell recruiters nothing about the candidate’s specific capabilities, and they take up valuable space while accomplishing nothing.

These examples, on the other hand, effectively convey talent, experience, and strength of purpose:

• Objective : Tech-savvy and organized professional seeking a receptionist position where typing and interpersonal skills will prove beneficial. Motivated to leverage retail experience and customer care to enhance office dynamics, efficiency, and environment. 
• Summary : Seasoned receptionist currently serving at the front desk of a large car dealership with years of experience inputting complicated data. My empathy coupled with quick thinking and resourcefulness has contributed to company reputation and lifelong customer satisfaction. 

These successful examples include traits, skills, and goals. They’re also specific and concise, providing recruiters with as much information as possible in a small amount of space.

Receptionist job experience

First and foremost, recruiters are going to be interested in your work history. Try to include 2-4 jobs relevant to the position you’re currently applying for; however, if you lack receptionist experience, you can include positions that  may seem  irrelevant. As you write your work experience, consider how you may have used receptionist skills in previous positions, and draft your bullet points with those duties and accomplishments in mind. If you’ve held many relevant positions throughout your career, then use your judgment to determine which jobs will most help your chances.

Receptionist job experience bullet points

Beneath each job title in the work experience section, you should include 3-6 bullet points that briefly explain your obligations and accomplishments. You can employ some stylistic tricks to get the most out of these descriptions.

Start the bullet points with forceful action verbs in the past tense. This type of language demonstrates your tangible role with the company or organization. You can also leave out the personal pronoun “I.” The reader already knows you’re the subject of every sentence, and full sentences with a subject and a predicate take up too much space. If your bullet points are phrases rather than full sentences, make sure you don’t put a period at the end.

Don’t succumb to these sorts of bullet points:

• I was in charge of all sorts of important tasks.
• Almost every single day, I had to deal with some unforeseen circumstance.
• The offices saw tons of traffic on a daily basis, and I had to document all the visitors and make sure they had legitimate reasons for being on the premises.

These examples are vague and sloppy. They use too much space to say very little, and they don’t focus entirely on the candidate’s actions and obligations.

Here are some better examples:

• Oversaw scheduling and communication of many facets of the company’s operations, including customer service, accounting, and partner relationships.
• Determined how best to deal with disruptive and unexpected visitors, successfully de-escalating 100% of situations through step-by-step company methods.
• Documented visitor activity and monitored visitor logs for security threats, reporting unusual activity to security within 20 seconds. 

The language in these bullet points is succinct and powerful, letting recruiters know your exact impact.

Quantify your value as a receptionist

You should supplement the effective use of language with meaningful statistics. Quantifiable data will show recruiters that you’re not all talk. Any number that demonstrates the impact you had in your previous positions will go a long way toward convincing recruiters that you have what it takes to be a difference-maker.

While you don’t want numbers to overtake your entire resume, about 60% of your bullet points should employ the use of metrics. 

Keep the following in mind to quantify your receptionist impact:

• Include any metrics showing your contribution to a company’s growth or efficiency.  
• Describe how you saved quantifiable assets like time or money for the organization.
• Quantify everything you can. Scan your resume for words like “many” and “several,” then try to replace them with numbers.
• If you can’t remember an exact number, feel free to use a range. 
• Always place statistics within the context of your specific contributions.

Best receptionist skills to Include

The skills section of a resume gives you the chance to sell yourself to recruiters. It’s important to mention both hard skills and soft skills in the document. Hard skills are technical and measurable, and, for a receptionist, they include things like:

• Foreign languages
• Database management experience
• Technological know-how or typing speed

Soft skills, on the other hand, are not quite as easy to measure and encapsulate habits, traits, and disciplines. Examples include:

• Attention to detail
• Communication skills
• Open-mindedness

When listing your skills, use some of the same keywords you see in the job description for the position. This will draw the attention of ATS systems and human readers. Try to list 5-10 skills, depending on the amount of space you have available.

Including education and certifications on your receptionist resume

While most receptionist jobs require only a high school diploma, it still makes sense to include all the education credentials you’ve acquired. This includes associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and any additional higher education. You should also include any certifications you’ve received as a receptionist, especially those pertaining to a specific subcategory of the profession. These details could set you apart from other applicants.

Does your receptionist resume need projects, interests, or hobbies?

There’s some debate about whether projects, hobbies, and interests belong on a resume. In general, it’s better to skip these types of personal details in favor of adding more skills and work experience. There are particular cases, however, where this background information could work in your favor. For anyone fresh out of school or new to the workforce, projects and interests can help get a foot in the door.

Some candidates simply lack the relevant work experience they’d like to put on their resume. If you find yourself in that position, projects and hobbies give you another way to show recruiters why you would make a great receptionist.

When listing projects and hobbies, make sure you choose details related to the job you’re seeking. Pick interests requiring skills that would translate well to a receptionist position. Projects worth listing include organizing a food drive and creating a new club in school. These types of endeavors require the same skills and habits that recruiters will be looking for in a receptionist.

Hobbies and interests  like researching your ancestry and planning parties are also smart to include. By showing recruiters that you’re employing the skills you’ll need on the job, you can make up for a lack of experience.

Customize your receptionist resume for the position

Every receptionist job you apply to will have its own set of responsibilities and expectations. To give yourself the best chance of success, you should create a separate version of your resume for each application. This doesn’t mean you have to start the document from scratch. Simply look for skills or certifications that are stressed in a particular job advertisement and make corresponding adjustments to your original document.

Edit and proofread your receptionist resume

This might be the most obvious step in the entire process, but it’s one that far too many people overlook. A few typos or spelling errors might not seem like a big deal, but recruiters will take it as a sure sign of carelessness. When competition for a position is fierce, you can’t afford to put yourself in a hole. Re-read the document several times before sending it, and take advantage of our  quick and easy resume checker  to spot pesky issues concerning consistency, active voice, resume length, and more.

Land Your Receptionist Job

There’s a basic roadmap all job seekers should follow in creating the perfect receptionist resume. It looks something like this:

• Choose the format that works for your career path
• Create a header with contact information
• Decide if you need a resume objective or a resume summary
• Write out your work experience with strong, active language
• Include your hard and soft skills
• Create customized versions of your resume for every job
• Revise and proofread

Once you’ve followed the steps above and completed your resume, give yourself a hearty pat on the back before knocking out your receptionist cover letter . All this hard work should pay off in the form of greater attention from recruiters. Before you know it, you will have landed your next job!

Receptionist Skills to Land a Job Quickly

To become a receptionist or advance in this career, one needs a specific set of hard and soft skills. In this post, you’ll find all essential receptionist skills that will help you craft a winning resume and highlight relevant accomplishments.

We will also discuss how long it takes to excel in specific skills for receptionist and how to properly showcase them in a cover letter or resume. Learn what receptionists can do and how they perform their duties perfectly.

Who Is a Receptionist?

So, what do receptionists do? The receptionist job requirements include the ability to multitask, organize, and manage communications. These competencies are necessary to handle phone calls and written communication. Receptionists welcome guests, greet them, engage in small talk, and answer questions.

Other experiences in such positions include maintaining security in the office with specific procedures and logging all visitors. They also provide administrative and clerical support, including handling various documents. For example, they scan something or design and print materials.

Receptionist Technical Skills

A great receptionist skill set includes particular hard skills. The exact software one needs to be experienced at may vary depending on the industry, but overall receptionist technical skills are the following:

• strong computer skills and experience with office software, like MS Office, Word, Excel, etc.;
• fast and excellent typing (WPM);
• work with different types of information management software;
• experience with industry-specific logging or tracking solutions;
• knowledge of multiline telecommunication systems;
• supply management.

The receptionist technical skills can also include working with management and organization systems and automation of specific data.

Receptionist Non-Technical Skills

Of course, the top-notch skills of a receptionist who wants to grow as a professional also include soft skills. A front desk receptionist is a first impression of the company on visitors and potential clients. It means that such an employee is proficient in all types of communication. Other soft skills include the following:

• organization and management;
• strong multitasking;
• desire to learn (being self-motivated for improvement);
• knowledge of customer service best practices and principles;
• problem-solving approach;
• attention to detail;
• excellent listening skills;
• time management;
• ability to resolve conflicts.

Job seekers in this field may have any hobbies, but at work, they need to focus on professionalism and efficiency.

And if you want to put receptionist skills on a resume, think about this: If your writing skills are not as good as your professional ones, trust a professional resume writer service to describe them professionally . Pay for resume and get it done by a pro, with no hassle.

Top Skills for Landing a Receptionist Job

Recruiting firms look not only for relevant work experience but also for top skills for receptionist and specific accomplishments. An applicant needs to impress recruiters with their resume and cover letter to stand out.

Here are the top skills for receptionist to include in a resume.

• Hard skills – name all software solutions and tech you have worked with.
• Focus on automation tools and programs.
• Highlight communication and experience in customer service.
• Indicate receptionist education or professional certification.

Now, let’s define the essential soft skills in detail.

But before, if you want to make it professionally, turn it to professional resume services that will highlight it on your resume.

Communication Skill

The first thing to come to mind answering the question about what skills does a receptionist need is communication. Interacting with customers, visitors, and other employees is a huge part of their daily routine. It is important to always be polite, empathetic, and helpful.

When describing this skill in a resume, focus on customer satisfaction. Show measurable results – 95% satisfaction according to a survey or 3 years without complaints.

Organization Skill

The next crucial part of receptionist requirements is the ability to organize and manage. Keeping lots of files and various types of information in a clear system is a part of the job. Present the results of your automation or organization systems for previous employers.

A front desk professional needs to be able to find any document fast, know exactly where it is stored, and keep everything tidy.

Multitasking Skill

Usually, receptionist education and experience include multitasking, for example, answering calls, greeting visitors, or preparing coffee or water for a meeting. The ability to manage several tasks at once is essential for effective job performance. It also means dealing with lots of different information, like logging visitors, keeping the schedules correct, and control of office supplies.

Multitasking comes hand in hand with automation, organization, and using different systems to make all these processes smooth and effective.

Customer Service Skill

Customer service experience is highly valued among receptionist qualifications. A receptionist is the face of a business, and they need to show professional behavior and attention to clients and visitors.

Front desk professionals make sure that visitors have a pleasant experience and get assistance with any inquiries they might have. It is important to be polite, helpful, and treat all the customers with respect.

Problem-Solving Skill

Problem-solving is one of the top job requirements for almost any position, and the front desk is no exception. One needs to learn to prioritize issues and tasks and address any errors fast. It might be anything, from a shortage of paper to printer error that requires instant action.

Receptionists also need a problem-solving approach when dealing with both customers and the company’s staff. For example, they apply this ability when they need to introduce a new file management system or keep the schedules for meetings in check.

An Efficient Way of Becoming a Receptionist

To hone good receptionist skills, one needs to dedicate time and effort. It is very useful to get professional education and certification. One can also follow online courses on management, organization, or particular software. All of that will make you stand out from the competition, as well as experience or education in a business department.

Another great way to invest in your career is to get professional help with your resume. Our service can craft a winning resume for you that will make you stand out.

Follow an Online Educational Program

Whether you are interested in training courses or a full degree, there are many online options. Getting an online education is beneficial in many ways. It offers a fast-paced environment, flexibility, and lower prices. In many cases, it is much more accessible for students and professionals all over the world. It also allows combining work and education, so one can get qualifications and experience at the same time. The data shows that with the right motivation in place, online education is as effective as a traditional one.

Receptionist in the Workplace

The receptionist requirements align with the work peculiarities for such employees. The individuals work in a fast-paced environment while tackling lots of small tasks every day. It is essential to be able to perform under stress and stay concentrated.

The job outlook for front desk employees is pretty good, as almost any business wants to employ receptionists. It is a necessity for a company’s administration department. So, it is definitely quite possible to land a job, but there is still competition for top positions.

How to get a job if you’re an entry-level specialist? Check cover letter examples career change if you’ve recently switched industries. Align your past work experience with the one of a receptionist. If this doesn’t help, learn how to present your skills in a Functional format below.

How to Showcase Your Skills

To land a dream job and ensure career growth, you should learn to present yourself. Receptionist skills and qualifications are great, but it is essential to know how to showcase them in a resume and cover letter.

We’ll talk about some tips and tricks in this regard. But the main point is to always focus on results, measurable achievements, and the impact of your work on the company’s performance.

Skills for Resume [Example]

The receptionist cover letter and resume need to highlight the skills and show why you are the top pick for this position. Put the recent work experience on top and showcase your achievements instead of describing work responsibilities. Look at the two examples below.

Good: Achieved 96% customer satisfaction according to follow-up surveys. Managed internal and external company communication for 3 years without complaints.

Bad: Managed calls and emails and welcomed visitors. Maintained telecommunication systems and performed file organization.

The good example focuses on measurable results and impact. And the bad one simply states the work duties that any receptionist has.

Skills for the Job Interview

It is also important to showcase the skills needed for a receptionist in a job interview. Expand the data given on the resume to a recruiter and give examples of the tasks you’ve managed. When you discuss some aspects of a position, illustrate your experience with relevant cases.

Also, remember that the interview is a great way to illustrate your communications skills. A company wants to employ a professional who is great at all types of communication, problem-solving, and multitasking.

Sample for Receptionist Resume Skills Section

The skills section of a successful receptionist resume needs to be specific and straight-to-the-point. Do not list duties, but present the level of your skills for a future position. This is the main reason to hire you.

Divide the section into soft and hard skills. Put the essential ones first.

Receptionist Skills in a Resume Skills Section

Here is an example of a resume skills section for job seekers in this field.

Soft Skills

• Verbal and written communication (expert);
• Time management (advanced);
• Organization (advanced);
• Attention to detail (proficient);
• Problem-solving (advanced).

Hard Skills

• Data entry (advanced);
• Scheduling (proficient) ;
• Shipping (expert);
• Customer relationship management (advanced).

You can name all the key skills that helped you out in similar positions and work experience. Do not stop at only the top-required ones but add something representative of you specifically.

Presenting Receptionist Skills in Work Experience Section

You can also present skills for receptionist in a work experience section of your resume. It is one of the perfect career resources as it can highlight how you managed to apply your skills in previous positions.

Here is a corresponding sample of this section.

2018 to present

• Maintained files and data in an organized system for all visitors, clients, and meetings for 3 years.
• Consulted on the implementation of a new scheduling solution, saving 15% more time for organized meetings and events.
• Managed all external communication with 96% of customer satisfaction based on follow-up surveys.

Want to have your resume fast and easy? You are at the right place! With resume builder service , you'll have it tailored to the job description that dramatically increases the chances of being noticed.

To attract recruiters, you should highlight all the hard and soft receptionist skills you have in your resume. However, make sure they are relevant to the job description. Resume samples are useful, but you should demonstrate your unique personality to stand out from others.

If you struggle with composing a perfect job application, you can get online resume edit service help with your document and cover letter to apply for the job of your dreams. Our experienced resume writers know exactly how to present your skills and experience in the best light. And while we are busy crafting an outstanding resume for you, you can hone skills to be a receptionist of an advanced level.

Learn more about resume samples .

Knowledge is Power

Get a list of 50+ books to boost your productivity at work

Did you read this already?

Top 12 Front Desk Receptionist Skills to Put on Your Resume

A compelling resume is crucial for front desk receptionists aiming to make a strong first impression on potential employers. Highlighting the top skills in your resume not only showcases your proficiency in front desk operations but also sets you apart as a highly capable and adaptable candidate in the hospitality and service industry.

Front Desk Receptionist Skills

• Multitasking
• Communication
• Customer Service
• Microsoft Office
• Time Management
• Problem-Solving
• Organizational
• Detail-Oriented
• Scheduling (e.g., Calendly)
• CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce)
• Telephone Etiquette

1. Multitasking

Multitasking for a Front Desk Receptionist involves simultaneously handling various duties such as answering calls, greeting visitors, managing appointments, and performing administrative tasks, ensuring smooth and efficient front desk operations.

Why It's Important

Multitasking is essential for a Front Desk Receptionist because it enables them to efficiently handle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as greeting visitors, answering calls, and managing appointments, ensuring smooth operations and a positive first impression for guests.

How to Improve Multitasking Skills

Improving multitasking, especially for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves enhancing organizational skills, prioritizing tasks, and using tools to streamline processes. Here’s a concise guide:

Prioritize Tasks : Quickly identify which tasks need immediate attention and which can wait. Use the Eisenhower Box technique to categorize tasks by urgency and importance.

Use Technology : Leverage scheduling and task management software to keep track of duties and appointments. Tools like Asana can help manage tasks efficiently.

Improve Communication Skills : Clear communication can reduce the need for multitasking by preventing misunderstandings. Resources like Toastmasters can enhance your communication.

Limit Interruptions : Use strategies to minimize disruptions, such as setting specific times to check emails. Techniques for managing interruptions can be found on MindTools .

Practice Mindfulness : Strengthen your ability to focus on the present task. Simple mindfulness exercises can improve concentration. Explore Headspace for guided mindfulness exercises.

By prioritizing effectively, leveraging technology, communicating clearly, minimizing disruptions, and practicing mindfulness, you can enhance your multitasking abilities significantly.

How to Display Multitasking Skills on Your Resume

2. Communication

Communication, for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves effectively exchanging information, both verbally and non-verbally, with guests and staff to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

Communication is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it ensures effective information exchange, fosters a positive first impression, and facilitates smooth operations, enhancing overall guest satisfaction and business success.

How to Improve Communication Skills

To improve communication as a Front Desk Receptionist, focus on these key areas:

Active Listening : Pay close attention to what the speaker is saying. Acknowledge their concerns by nodding or using phrases like "I understand." MindTools offers strategies for developing active listening skills.

Clear Speaking : Speak clearly and concisely. Use simple language and avoid jargon. Toastmasters International provides tips for effective speaking.

Positive Body Language : Use open body language to appear approachable. Smile, maintain eye contact, and avoid crossing your arms. HelpGuide explains the importance of non-verbal cues.

Patience and Empathy : Show patience and empathy towards the concerns and queries of guests. Understanding their perspective can improve interaction quality. SkillsYouNeed discusses how to develop empathy skills.

Feedback Solicitation : Regularly ask for feedback on your communication style and make adjustments as necessary. Harvard Business Review offers insights on effective feedback practices.

By focusing on these areas, a Front Desk Receptionist can significantly enhance their communication effectiveness.

How to Display Communication Skills on Your Resume

3. Customer Service

Customer service, in the context of a Front Desk Receptionist, involves greeting visitors, addressing inquiries, providing information, and ensuring a welcoming and efficient front office operation to meet the needs of guests and clients.

Customer service is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it directly impacts the first impression of a business, influences customer satisfaction and retention, and ultimately contributes to the reputation and success of the company.

How to Improve Customer Service Skills

Improving customer service, especially for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves a few key strategies:

Active Listening : Ensure you fully understand the customer's needs by listening actively. Active Listening Skills can help you better connect with customers.

Effective Communication : Communicate clearly and positively. The Balance Careers offers tips on enhancing communication skills.

Product Knowledge : Know your services/products well to provide accurate information. Forbes highlights its importance.

Problem-Solving Skills : Be ready to resolve issues swiftly. Help Scout guides on developing problem-solving skills.

Patience and Empathy : Understand and empathize with customer frustrations. Harvard Business Review discusses using empathy in customer service.

Feedback Collection and Action : Act on feedback to improve services. Qualtrics offers strategies for collecting and using feedback.

Continuous Training : Keep skills sharp with ongoing training. Chron explains the importance of continuous training.

By focusing on these areas, a Front Desk Receptionist can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and service quality.

How to Display Customer Service Skills on Your Resume

4. Microsoft Office

Microsoft Office is a suite of productivity tools, including Word for document creation, Excel for spreadsheets, PowerPoint for presentations, and Outlook for email and calendar management, designed to facilitate various administrative tasks commonly handled by a Front Desk Receptionist.

Microsoft Office is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it provides essential tools for creating professional documents (Word), managing appointments and communication (Outlook), handling data and guest information (Excel), and creating presentations for display or meetings (PowerPoint), thereby ensuring efficient and organized front desk operations.

How to Improve Microsoft Office Skills

Improving Microsoft Office skills, particularly for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves focusing on the most relevant tools and features to enhance productivity and communication. Here are brief, actionable ways to get better:

Master Key Office Applications : Prioritize learning advanced features in Word , Excel , and Outlook . Word for document creation, Excel for data management and reporting, and Outlook for email and calendar organization.

Utilize Templates : Leverage Office’s wide range of templates for letters, schedules, and reports to save time.

Explore PowerPoint : Enhance your PowerPoint skills for creating presentations for meetings or events.

Automate Repetitive Tasks : Learn to use Quick Parts in Word for repetitive text and Quick Steps in Outlook to manage emails efficiently.

Improve Typing Speed and Accuracy : Since much of the work involves creating and editing documents, improving typing skills can significantly boost productivity. Use free online resources like Typing.com for practice.

Microsoft Office Training : Microsoft offers free training for all its Office applications. Utilize these resources at the Microsoft Office Training Center to learn new skills and get certifications.

Practice with Real-world Scenarios : Apply your skills in everyday work tasks. Experiment with creating complex documents, managing larger datasets in Excel, or organizing a more efficient email system in Outlook.

Stay Updated : Office applications receive frequent updates. Keep abreast with the latest features and improvements via the Microsoft 365 Blog .

Improving proficiency in Microsoft Office as a Front Desk Receptionist not only enhances job performance but also opens up opportunities for taking on more complex tasks and responsibilities.

How to Display Microsoft Office Skills on Your Resume

5. Time Management

Time management for a Front Desk Receptionist involves efficiently organizing and allocating their time to handle tasks such as greeting visitors, answering calls, scheduling appointments, and managing administrative duties, ensuring smooth operations and excellent customer service.

Time management is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist because it enables efficient handling of tasks such as greeting visitors, answering calls, and managing appointments, ensuring smooth operations and a positive first impression for clients or guests.

How to Improve Time Management Skills

Improving time management, especially for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves prioritizing tasks, setting clear goals, and using tools effectively. Here’s how:

• Prioritize Tasks : Identify urgent vs. important tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix .
• Set Goals : Establish SMART goals - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound. MindTools offers a detailed guide.
• Use Tools : Leverage time management tools like scheduling software or apps. Asana and Trello are great for task organization.
• Limit Interruptions : Allocate specific times for checking emails or answering non-urgent calls. This guide provides strategies.
• Take Breaks : Short breaks can boost productivity. The Pomodoro Technique suggests 25-minute focus sessions followed by a 5-minute break.

Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance time management skills, leading to a more efficient and productive work environment for a Front Desk Receptionist.

How to Display Time Management Skills on Your Resume

6. Problem-Solving

Problem-solving, in the context of a Front Desk Receptionist, involves quickly and effectively addressing and resolving any issues or challenges that guests or clients may encounter, ensuring a smooth and satisfactory experience.

Problem-solving is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it enables them to efficiently address and resolve unexpected issues, ensuring guest satisfaction and maintaining smooth operation of front desk activities.

How to Improve Problem-Solving Skills

Improving problem-solving skills, especially for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves a blend of enhancing communication, organizational skills, and stress management. Here’s a concise guide:

Enhance Communication Skills: Clear communication helps identify issues quickly and accurately. Practice active listening and assertive speaking. Toastmasters offers resources to sharpen these skills.

Boost Organizational Skills: Being well-organized allows you to handle multiple tasks and solve problems efficiently. Utilize tools like Trello or Asana for task management.

Learn Stress Management: Effective problem-solving under pressure requires calmness. Techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can be helpful. Headspace offers guided sessions.

Seek Feedback and Reflect: Regular feedback from peers and supervisors can provide insights into your problem-solving process. Reflect on past situations to identify improvement areas.

Continuous Learning: Stay informed about best practices in customer service and problem-solving by following relevant blogs and resources such as HubSpot Blog .

Focusing on these areas will significantly enhance your problem-solving capabilities as a Front Desk Receptionist, allowing you to handle challenges more effectively.

How to Display Problem-Solving Skills on Your Resume

7. Organizational

Organizational skills for a Front Desk Receptionist involve efficiently managing tasks such as scheduling appointments, handling incoming calls and messages, organizing files and documents, and ensuring the reception area is orderly, to provide effective support and create a welcoming environment for visitors and staff.

Organizational skills are crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as they ensure efficient handling of appointments, prompt customer service, accurate record-keeping, and effective management of communication and tasks, leading to smooth operations and a positive first impression for visitors.

How to Improve Organizational Skills

Improving organizational skills, especially for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves streamlining tasks, managing time effectively, and enhancing communication. Here's a concise guide:

Prioritize Tasks : Begin by identifying high-priority tasks. Tools like the Eisenhower Box can help distinguish between urgent and important tasks. Learn more .

Time Management : Utilize digital calendars or apps like Google Calendar to schedule and allocate time for tasks efficiently. Explore Google Calendar .

Streamline Communication : Employ tools like Slack for seamless communication with team members. Check Slack .

Organize Workspace : A tidy workspace promotes efficiency. Use physical organizers or digital tools like Evernote for keeping notes and information well-arranged. Discover Evernote .

Automate Repetitive Tasks : Automate standard responses or frequently asked questions using templates or software like Zendesk. Visit Zendesk .

Continuous Learning : Stay updated with organizational tools and techniques by subscribing to blogs or websites dedicated to productivity, like Lifehacker. Go to Lifehacker .

By implementing these strategies, a Front Desk Receptionist can significantly improve their organizational skills, contributing to a more efficient and productive work environment.

How to Display Organizational Skills on Your Resume

8. Detail-Oriented

Being detail-oriented as a Front Desk Receptionist means attentively managing tasks like scheduling, data entry, and customer service with precision and accuracy to ensure smooth operations and high-quality guest experiences.

Being detail-oriented is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it ensures accuracy in scheduling, clear communication, efficient handling of inquiries, and the provision of exceptional customer service, all of which contribute to a positive first impression and operational excellence of the organization.

How to Improve Detail-Oriented Skills

To improve detail-oriented skills as a Front Desk Receptionist:

Practice Active Listening : Pay close attention to the details in conversations. Active Listening Skills can help you catch subtleties that might otherwise be missed.

Organize Your Workspace : A tidy desk can help you focus and process information efficiently. Workspace Organization explains the impact on productivity.

Use Checklists : Create daily task lists to ensure no detail is overlooked. Checklist Making discusses their benefits.

Double-Check Your Work : Always take a moment to review your tasks for accuracy. Proofreading Strategies offer techniques for catching errors.

Ask for Feedback : Regularly seek constructive criticism to identify areas for improvement. Receiving Feedback provides insights into learning from feedback effectively.

Engage in Continuous Learning : Stay updated on best practices in reception and customer service. Continuous Learning highlights its importance in the workplace.

By honing these skills, you'll enhance your attention to detail, making you a more effective and efficient Front Desk Receptionist.

How to Display Detail-Oriented Skills on Your Resume

9. Scheduling (e.g., Calendly)

Scheduling, as in tools like Calendly, is a digital system that allows individuals to book appointments or meetings automatically based on available times, streamlining the process of managing appointments and reducing the workload for front desk receptionists.

Scheduling is pivotal for a Front Desk Receptionist as it ensures efficient time management, minimizes appointment conflicts, enhances customer satisfaction by streamlining the booking process, and optimizes the daily flow of visitors and meetings.

How to Improve Scheduling (e.g., Calendly) Skills

To enhance scheduling efficiency and accuracy, especially for a Front Desk Receptionist using tools like Calendly, consider the following concise steps:

Integration : Ensure Calendly is fully integrated with your organization's calendar system (e.g., Google Calendar, Outlook). This allows for real-time availability updates, reducing scheduling conflicts. Calendly Integration Guide.

Customization : Customize appointment types with specific durations, questions, or requirements. This ensures the receptionist gathers necessary information before the meeting. Customizing Event Types.

Buffer Times : Add buffer times between appointments to allow for preparation or unexpected delays, enhancing the overall service quality. Setting Up Buffer Times.

Time Zone Detection : Utilize Calendly's automatic time zone detection feature to avoid confusion for international clients, ensuring smooth scheduling across different regions. Time Zone Intelligent Scheduling.

Reminders and Follow-ups : Set up automated email or SMS reminders and follow-up messages to reduce no-shows and keep appointments on track. Automated Notifications.

Training : Regularly train and update front desk staff on new features or best practices for using Calendly or similar tools to ensure they are maximizing the platform's potential. Calendly Resources.

By implementing these strategies, a Front Desk Receptionist can significantly improve scheduling efficiency, providing a better experience for both staff and clients.

How to Display Scheduling (e.g., Calendly) Skills on Your Resume

10. Data Entry

Data entry for a Front Desk Receptionist involves accurately inputting, updating, and maintaining information in the company's system or database, often including guest or client details, appointments, and communications.

Data entry is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it ensures accurate and organized record-keeping of guest information, appointments, and transactions, facilitating efficient communication, service delivery, and overall operational effectiveness.

How to Improve Data Entry Skills

Improving data entry, especially for a Front Desk Receptionist, involves enhancing accuracy and speed. Here are concise strategies:

Use Data Entry Software : Implement data entry software that automates repetitive tasks and suggests auto-completions.

Keyboard Shortcuts Mastery : Learn and use keyboard shortcuts to navigate forms and applications faster.

Data Entry Practice : Regularly practice on platforms like TypingTest to improve typing speed and accuracy.

Dual Monitors Setup : Use a dual monitor setup to reduce time switching between applications.

Use Templates and Auto-Fill Features : Create templates for repetitive data and use auto-fill options where available.

Regular Breaks and Ergonomics : Maintain ergonomics at the workspace and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

Data Verification Process : Implement a process for double-checking data entries for errors.

Training and Continuous Learning : Attend online courses for advanced data entry techniques and software updates.

By incorporating these strategies, a Front Desk Receptionist can significantly improve their data entry skills, leading to higher accuracy and efficiency.

How to Display Data Entry Skills on Your Resume

11. CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce)

CRM software, like Salesforce, is a tool that helps manage interactions with customers and potential customers. It organizes information such as contact details, communication history, and preferences, to improve customer service and support sales efforts. For a Front Desk Receptionist, it can be used to quickly access customer information, track interactions, and schedule appointments, enhancing the overall customer experience.

CRM software is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it centralizes customer information, streamlines communication, and enhances service efficiency, enabling personalized and efficient customer interactions.

How to Improve CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce) Skills

Improving CRM software like Salesforce for a front desk receptionist involves focusing on usability, accessibility, and integration to enhance customer interactions and operational efficiency.

• Streamline User Interface : Simplify the dashboard and navigation for easy access to frequently used features ( Salesforce Customization ).
• Automate Daily Tasks : Use automation tools to handle repetitive tasks such as appointment scheduling and follow-ups (Salesforce Automation).
• Integrate Communication Tools : Embed email and social media for quick responses to customer inquiries within the CRM (Salesforce Integration).
• Customize Customer Interactions : Tailor the CRM to capture unique customer interactions, making information readily available for personalized service (Salesforce Personalization).
• Implement Training Programs : Regularly update staff on CRM features and best practices to ensure the software is used to its full potential ( Salesforce Training ).

By focusing on these areas, a front desk receptionist can leverage CRM software more effectively to improve customer service and operational efficiency.

How to Display CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce) Skills on Your Resume

12. Telephone Etiquette

Telephone etiquette for a Front Desk Receptionist involves answering calls promptly, greeting callers courteously, speaking clearly, actively listening, addressing the caller's needs efficiently, maintaining professionalism, and ensuring a positive and helpful tone throughout the conversation.

Telephone etiquette is crucial for a Front Desk Receptionist as it sets the first impression of the business, ensures clear and effective communication, and demonstrates professionalism and respect towards callers, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and maintaining the company's image.

How to Improve Telephone Etiquette Skills

Improving telephone etiquette as a Front Desk Receptionist involves several key practices:

Greet Warmly - Start with a polite greeting and introduce yourself. Example: "Good morning/afternoon, [Company Name], this is [Your Name] speaking. How can I assist you?"

Listen Carefully - Give the caller your full attention, listening to their needs or concerns without interrupting.

Speak Clearly - Use a clear, pleasant voice. Avoid slang or overly technical language unless necessary.

Be Prepared - Keep necessary information or tools (like a notepad, pen, computer access) handy to efficiently address queries.

Stay Positive - Maintain a positive and helpful tone, even if the call becomes challenging.

Respect Privacy - Be discreet with sensitive information, ensuring confidentiality.

End Politely - Conclude calls with a courteous farewell, ensuring all caller queries are addressed. Example: "Thank you for calling [Company Name]. Have a great day!"

For more detailed guidelines and best practices, explore these resources:

• Forbes: 10 Telephone Etiquette Tips
• Indeed: How To Improve Phone Etiquette

These insights can help refine your telephone communication skills, enhancing the caller's experience and reflecting positively on your organization.

How to Display Telephone Etiquette Skills on Your Resume

Related Career Skills

• Front Office Receptionist
• Front Desk Associate
• Front Desk Manager
• Front Desk Assistant
• Front Desk Attendant
• Front Desk Clerk

Receptionist Resume Example

Spruce up your resume and land your next job with ease.

Our resumes have been proven to work.

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

Receptionists

Receptionists greet visitors and check them into the business’s electronic software. They also process payments, schedule appointments, and answer questions. 

‍ How to Write a Summary for a Receptionist

• Mention your previous experience . How many companies have you worked for? How else have you used Microsoft Suite and related technologies? Have you worked in any other customer-service oriented positions?
• Describe your greatest strength . Are you friendly and approachable? Are you incredibly organized and detail-oriented?

How to List Your Work Experience as a Receptionist

• Use reverse chronological format . List your most recent jobs first, as this shows managers how you’ve gained experience in the industry. 
• Use action verbs related to being a Receptionist . Verbs are critical to demonstrating what you can do for the company. Review the following list for some powerful examples.
• Maintained 
• Scheduled  

See our list of over 350 action verbs to find more.

Senior Level Work Experience as a Medical Receptionist

• Answered the phone, took messages, and directed incoming calls to the correct individual
• Received and distributed all internal mail
• Ensured all patients, caregivers, and visitors are checked in and out into the Electronic Verification System
• Maintained an accurate online patient database, including organizing paperwork, data entry, scanning, printing, and faxing documents
• Handled incoming and outgoing correspondence
• Planned & scheduled appointments
• Balanced daily deposits and completed credit card processing
• Greeted patients and visitors who are coming and going, and directed them appropriately
• Assisted patients with their registration in the facility’s electronic medical record, as needed
• Presented all policies and obtain signatures on needed forms and consents and collect all appropriate billing forms and scan into the appropriate database
• Scheduled follow-up appointments for patients to include work in appointments
• Ordered supplies and stocked the supplies upon arrival
• Responsible for petty cash supply
• Maintained supply of the appropriate patient materials and forms used
• Maintain cleanliness of the lobby and front office area
• Monitored the patients as they waited in the lobby for their appointments
• Exhibited and maintained a high degree of professionalism and decorum in all situations in addition to confidentiality, flexibility and accountability

Junior Level Work Experience as a Receptionist

• Answered the telephone and took messages or forwarded calls
• Scheduled and confirmed appointments and maintained calendars
• Greeted customers, clients, and other visitors
• Checked in visitors and directed or escorted them to their destinations
• Informed other employees of visitors’ arrivals or cancellations
• Entered customer information into the organization's database
• Copied, filed, and maintained paper or electronic documents
• Ensured the reception area is stocked with appropriate booklets, pamphlets, and brochures for public distribution
• Used office automation equipment such as computers, modems, printers, copiers, and fax machines and software
• Composed routine requests, memoranda, and transmittal and acknowledgement letters
• Stored and retrieved documents or files, inserted and deleted text, and transmitted and received electronic mail 
• Assisted in preparation of appointments
• Collected payments and posted them to the patients’ accounts in an accurate and timely manner

How to List Your Skills as a Receptionist

Receptionists work with people and technology like telephones and computers. You need to know how to do both!

• Microsoft Suite 
• Communication Skills
• Customer Service Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Organizational Skills
• Multitasking and prioritizing
• Dependability
• Problem-solving
• Ability to work under pressure
• Attention to detail

How to List Your Education as a Receptionist

Receptionists generally require a high school diploma or GED. Receptionists must also be computer savvy.

Requirements to be a receptionist vary by state but generally involve the following:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Computer skills and knowledge
• Friendly and customer-oriented demeanor
• Complete a background check

Receptionist Career Overview

Job Outlook

The job outlook for Receptionists is growing at 5% per year, which is considered average. In 2018 there were 1,101,500 jobs available.

Average Salary 

Receptionists make $30,050 per year on average. However, salaries could be as high as $40,050 depending on experience, education, location, and the company for which you work.

Top Paying Salaries by State

• $40,050 -- District of Columbia
• $36,520 -- Connecticut
• $35,870 -- New York

Search for Receptionist Jobs

• Simplyhired

Browse more resume templates that fit your role

Get inspired with more resume examples

Read our how-to guides on making your resume perfect, how to write a two-page resume (with examples & tips).

Don't know whether you should write a one-page or two-page resume? Find out when it is appropriate to write a two-page resume and learn how to write it correctly.

How to List References on a Resume in 2022 (with Examples & Tips)

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about including references on a resume, from how to format them to how to know when they should be included at all.

How to Describe Work Experience on a Resume in 2022 (Examples & Tips)

Your work experience is a summary of all your hard work, dedication and achievements over the years. Here's how to do justice to your work history.

How to List Accomplishments on a Resume in 2022 (Including Awards & Key Achievements)

Showcasing your achievements is what can be the cherry on the cake to help you stand out from the crowd as a top performer and really attract employers.

More advice that will accelerate your career path

How to create a resume in microsoft word (step-by-step guide).

If this is your first time creating a resume in Microsoft Word, the process may seem overwhelming. Luckily, this article is here to help! In this step-by-step guide, we will cover how to create an effective resume from start to finish using Microsoft Word.

15+ Key Interpersonal Skills to List on Your Resume in 2022 (With Examples)

How well you communicate and interact with people is a top priority to employers. In this guide, we will enlighten you on the importance of interpersonal skills. Plus, we will provide you with our top 15 examples to consider including on your resume!

50+ Key Technical Skills to List on Your Resume in 2022 (With Examples)

Including technical skills on a resume is an absolute necessity. These types of skills show employers your quantifiable qualifications. In this guide, we will cover exactly what a technical skill is and some of the best examples to include on a resume.

How to Show Your Job Promotions on a Resume in 2022

Show off your achievements and highlight your growth by listing your job promotions correctly and catch the eye of the recruiter.

Professional resume templates to help land your next dream job.

Facebook • Twitter • Linkedin • Pinterest • Crunchbase

The 12 Best Skills to Put on Your Resume (Plus Examples)

S kills can make or break your resume. They should match the jobs you're applying for and show recruiters that you can succeed at their companies.

Sometimes companies will use applicant tracking systems (ATS) that automatically scan resumes and forward the best matches to hiring managers. Whether a human or a computer is looking over your resume, it pays to have a robust set of skills.

Below, we'll cover some skills to put on your resume, the difference between soft and hard skills and the best ways to highlight skills when communicating about your work experience:

The 12 Best Skills to Put on a Resume

Putting the right skills on your resume signals your readiness for the jobs you apply for. Almost anyone can develop these, regardless of professional background—they're huge green flags for recruiters.

1. Adaptability

Change is the only constant in business, according to Mark Cuban . The skills you develop when you start a job may not be relevant in five years, even if you're still in the same position.

Companies want employees who can adapt to changing times. Demonstrating that on your resume shows employers that you're a good long-term investment.

2. Attention to Detail

Anyone can do sloppy work. Having attention to detail means spotting the little mistakes before they become big problems.

Calling out your attention to detail on your resume sets you apart as someone who will sweat the small stuff and pursue excellence in every part of your job.

3. Communication

Virtually every job involves some amount of communication . Are you a software engineer who just wants to code? You still have to talk to clients about their needs.

Eyeballing a management role ? You'll need to successfully communicate with direct reports to give feedback and achieve team goals.

Talking about your communication skills on your resume, including listening, presentation and writing skills, shows you know how to work with others. You can also mention your communication style to make sure you're a good fit for a company's culture.

4. Creativity

The best employees are not just cogs in a machine. They stand out by thinking outside the box and offering creative new solutions to their company's problems.

But creativity doesn't necessarily mean you're artistic. If you're an analyst, it could mean drawing novel conclusions from data. If you're a manager, it could mean finding interesting new ways to engage your team.

Including creativity as a skill on your resume shows employers that you can offer value beyond the job description.

5. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is your ability to find solutions beyond the obvious. Good critical thinkers can get to the "why" behind a problem, anticipate future problems and elevate the quality of work their teams produce.

Putting critical thinking on your resume takes your skills to the next level. It also speaks to your independence—you come up with solutions on your own, rather than relying on others.

6. Customer Service

Many jobs require some sort of customer service element. Salespeople or project managers talk to customers, helping them get exactly what they're looking for. Other workers, like copywriters or data engineers, may still meet with customers to speak to their area of expertise and demonstrate the viability of their company's work.

Don't take customer service skills for granted. They're valuable in almost any position.

7. Digital Skills

Most office jobs require basic computer literacy. Employers expect employees to know how to open computer and phone applications, send emails and sometimes use video call tools like Teams or Zoom . Being digitally literate can mean knowing when to send a quick chat vs. a long email .

These skills are absolutely worth listing on your resume, especially if you have experience with specific software or tools common in your industry.

8. Leadership

Leadership is your ability to get your team to work together toward a shared goal. It's not just important for managers—individual contributors can communicate better if they have strong leadership skills. ICs can also use leadership skills to take charge when their teams are confused and get the job done.

Putting leadership skills on your resume identifies you as someone who can bring order to a complicated workplace. It also sets you up as potential management material —someone worthy of future internal promotions at a company.

9. Organization

Many jobs require you to juggle several tasks. Organization is your ability to keep everything together, even when you have multiple deadlines or you're working for clients with very different expectations.

Highlighting your organizational skills puts you forward as a candidate who can perform the full range of job responsibilities without getting lost.

10. Problem-Solving

Good problem solvers can take projects from point A to point B in the most efficient way possible. They can also spot solutions that aren't obvious, making them invaluable to their employers.

Setting yourself up as a problem-solver makes you an excellent candidate for almost any job since this skill is so widely used.

11. Teamwork

Teamwork is your ability to function well with your immediate coworkers, but also with other teams you may encounter. It's more than just good communication; it includes good social skills and compassion for others.

Listing teamwork as a skill on your resume shows that you're ready to work in a bustling company where you're one part of a bigger whole.

12. Time Management

Many employers want things done yesterday. That's not always possible, but good time managers offer the next best thing: work that's done well and finished as soon as possible.

Introducing yourself as a good time manager shows that you'll finish tasks before they're due. That's something hiring managers love to see.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills on Your Resume

Hard skills are what you do. Soft skills are how you get it done. Good resumes include both.

Soft Skills for Your Resume

Soft skills are non-technical aspects of work, like being a good communicator or managing your time wisely. They're relevant everywhere.

According to data from LinkedIn, 92 percent of professionals say soft skills matter as much or more than hard skills.

"Soft skills are often what set one candidate apart from another with similar technical qualifications," Dan Schawbel, Managing Partner of Workplace Intelligence, told Newsweek . "Employers look for candidates who not only have the required hard skills but also possess the interpersonal and communication skills necessary to work well with others and fit into the company culture."

The introduction of artificial intelligence in the workplace may only improve the value of soft skills.

"While AI will automate certain tasks and change the nature of work, it will also place a premium on soft skills that are uniquely human," Schawbel said. "Soft skills related to creativity, emotional intelligence, ethics, collaboration, and adaptability will continue to be highly valuable in the AI-augmented workplace, enabling individuals to work alongside AI systems effectively and ethically."

Hard Skills for Your Resume

Hard skills refer to technical knowledge that you can spend months or even years developing. These are the things you learn in specialized degree programs and job training. Connecting a website to a database, operating a complex piece of machinery and balancing a quarterly budget are all hard skills.

Most jobs require certain hard skills. You wouldn't apply to be a video editor without some knowledge of editing software and techniques.

Companies may teach some hard skills on the job. For example, teaching new salespeople how to use their unique customer relationship management (CRM) software. However, most careers require hard skills that you learn elsewhere, either in school, training or an entry-level job .

How to List Skills on Your Resume

There are two sides to listing skills on your resume: the skills you include and how you express them.

Schawbel recommends creating a dedicated "Skills" section on your resume. List hard and soft skills there.

Next, Schawbel says to back up your soft skills with specific examples from your work experience. Did you demonstrate leadership when you took command of a flailing project at your last job? Write that down, using keywords that highlight those skills like "leadership" or "teamwork." Your work experience is evidence of your skills.

Remember that recruiters and hiring managers read hundreds of resumes. You want to present your highlights without going on and on about yourself. Schawbel recommends starting each bullet point in your resume with action verbs to quickly demonstrate your skills to an employer. Use language like:

• "Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to deliver budget analyses."
• "Wrote marketing emails that increased product engagement by 130 percent over six months."
• "Managed construction projects across multiple sites with 15 direct reports."

Stand out by presenting a different version of your resume for each new job you apply for. Tailor your skill list for each new position by looking at the job's duties and responsibilities.

If you're applying for a management position, include your leadership skills and the times you used them. Otherwise, consider leaving those off the resume and highlighting other skills.

Skills Section Examples by Job Type

Here are some examples of possible skill sections for jobs in multiple industries and experience levels. Use these as starting points to think about skills on your resume. However, you should always look at job descriptions to see exactly what skills to include.

Copywriters write content for videos, emails and other marketing collateral. They try to persuade readers or listeners to buy the product or service they're highlighting.

Hard Skills:

• Copywriting
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Social media marketing

Soft Skills:

• Attention to detail

Data Scientist

Data scientists explore massive data sets with advanced mathematics and computer models. They work with business managers to produce actionable insights from raw data.

• Data analysis
• Data visualization
• Machine learning
• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Organization

Nurses perform a range of tasks in hospitals and other health care settings. The exact skills they need depend on their medical subfield and the type of institution they work for.

• Medical knowledge
• Medical technology
• Nursing ethics
• Patient education
• Workplace safety
• Adaptability
• Time management

Project Manager

Project managers organize work across multiple teams. They often bridge the gap between individual contributors and clients or other stakeholders. They keep projects on time and within budget.

• Negotiation
• Project management
• Technical writing

Retail Sales Associate

Retail sales associates sell items, maintain the sales floor and assist customers. This is an entry-level position, but it can be an excellent opportunity to build skills.

• Basic mathematics
• CRM or point of sale (POS) software
• Inventory management
• Customer service

Frequently Asked Questions

Still not sure what skills to put on your resume? Here we tackle some common questions.

How Many Skills Should I Put on My Resume?

You want enough skills on your resume to impress recruiters without wasting their time.

"Aim for a list of 5 to 10 key skills. This allows you to emphasize your most critical qualifications without overwhelming the reader," Schawbel says.

Should I Format My Resume for an ATS?

Don't try to write your resume for a computer. It's a myth that most applications are rejected by automated systems—HR workers read most resumes and make decisions based on their merits.

Make things easier for recruiters by organizing information well on your resume. Include a dedicated skills section and describe your work experience directly and efficiently, with callouts to the skills you've listed.

Should I Change the Skills Section for Each Job Application?

Yes. It's a good idea to write a resume draft and then modify that draft slightly for each new job application.

Be sure to mention skills that appear in the job description. Cut mentions of skills that aren't relevant to the position, so that you don't waste recruiters' time.

What Skills Should I List if I Have No Work Experience?

Without work experience, you still have life and school. Draw up a list of transferable skills you've developed throughout your life and use those on your resume.

You should have several soft skills. If you had a leadership position in school, for example, list leadership, communication and teamwork skills.

Transferable soft skills aren't always obvious, but if you put some thought into your activities you should come up with a good list. For example, practicing a musical instrument alongside school demonstrates good time management, attention to detail and creativity.

Should I Add Certifications or Trainings?

Yes. Certifications and training are outside proof of your competence in skills. They can set you apart from other candidates who don't have that kind of evidence on their resumes.

Can I List Skills That I'm Still Learning?

Yes. Feel free to list skills where you're a beginner.

Some professionals label skills with their experience level, such as "beginner," "intermediate" or "advanced."

You can also describe your experience level in your work experience. For example:

• "Learned the core functions of our company's CRM system."
• "Wrote advanced web applications with JavaScript for five years."

Once you have your resume in good condition, you can start thinking about cover letters . Then you can learn more about finding your next opportunity with our review of the best job search apps .

Related Articles

• Job Applicant's 20-Word Resume Stuns Internet: 'Straight to the Point'
• Most Commonly Misspelled Words on American CVs Revealed
• Recruitment Expert Shares 'Tip' Guaranteed To Land Grads Their Dream Job

Start your unlimited Newsweek trial