A receptionist within a hotel facility (or hotel receptionist) has the task of helping guests with reservations, welcoming people to the hotel, answering questions and meeting the needs of customers during their stay. A receptionist must be friendly, professional, responsible and capable of many functions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics in the United States estimates that the industry is set to grow 14% by 2018. Therefore, there are excellent employment opportunities for people interested in doing this job in hotels. Consider becoming a receptionist by improving your position and experience in this field and showing potential employers that you are able to provide truly excellent customer service.
Steps
Step 1. Understand what the job is all about
While duties vary from facility to facility, there are certain responsibilities that all receptionists are expected to fulfill. They include the management of reservations and cancellations, payments, questions and related answers to customers, messages, front desk and phone calls.
Step 2. Prepare to work within shifts
Working as a hotel receptionist requires availability for day shifts, night shifts, weekends and sometimes for just one night. Be prepared for flexible hours.
Step 3. Get proper training
A minimum of school diploma will be required. However, taking some courses will help you become a hotel receptionist.
- Take English and communication courses that will give you the skills you need for verbal and written communication.
- Take math and accounting classes to prepare you for managing payments and money.
- Look for the opportunity to take courses on tourist hospitality techniques. Many vocational training centers and online schools offer tourism, travel and hospitality management courses.
Step 4. Gain experience doing office and front desk assignments
- Work as a receptionist or office assistant in a professional environment. It will help you acquire the skills necessary for a hotel receptionist.
- Answer the phone, greet customers, organize paper and computer files, and gain experience by performing various administrative functions.
Step 5. Hone your customer service skills
Working as an employee in retail sales or in a call center will give you the right experience to serve customers, useful for when you are a receptionist.
Answer questions, resolve complaints, and keep a cheerful, positive, and professional attitude when dealing with customers
Step 6. Keep up with computer programs and technology
Many hotels use specific databases and online booking systems. You will have to be able to learn how the programs work very quickly.
Learn to use Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Access and Outlook
Step 7. Write a CV that reflects your background and experiences, highlighting them in relation to the receptionist job
Make sure he has an objective thread, referring to your goal of becoming a hotel receptionist.
Step 8. Look for new job opportunities
- Check out job posting websites, such as CareerBuilder, Monster, and Indeed. You can search using specific keywords, such as "hotel receptionist", and choosing the city or state where you would like to work.
- Take your resume to the hotels in your city where you would like to work. Ask for an interview with the manager and introduce yourself. By doing so, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate a professional and positive attitude, but also your personality.
Advice
- Learn a foreign language. The ability to communicate with international guests will help secure your place as a receptionist.
- Talk to other hotel receptionists. A professional will be able to inform you on how the work is carried out on a daily basis, giving you advice on how to become a receptionist and on the skills and strengths needed.
