Receptionist job description

As the first point of contact for customers, clients, and other business stakeholders, a receptionist's role is varied, involving several administrative and office duties to assist in the smooth running of a business.

Tasks and responsibilities for a receptionist

What does a receptionist do?

Receptionists are usually placed near the entry to a business at the front desk to assist and communicate with visitors and colleagues. They also have processes to deal with business administration and a good knowledge of the company.

You’ll learn about these responsibilities in any receptionist course you take:

Assisting people who call the business and taking messages
Answering and directing phone calls and scheduling appointments
Record keeping, maintaining databases and filing systems
Greeting and directing customers and visitors
Supplying refreshments to colleagues or visitors
Ordering stock of office supplies
Scanning, printing and handling post

How to become a receptionist

Receptionist roles can be competitive, so be prepared for a new position with practised skills and experience to get your foot in the door.

Volunteer

A great way to get work experience in reception is to offer your time to local community efforts. Often these community-run programs are low on funds and need volunteers, especially for administrative support. Helping out is a great way to learn how to do the job effectively.
Study

Completing a course with a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO) is the best way to ensure you have the core skills to work in reception. Courses like a Certificate III in Business (BSB30120) or a Certificate IV in Business (BSB40120) give you the training you need, can be taken part-time if required, and can be affordable.

Pathway options

A job as a receptionist might be a great fit for you and be a fantastic life-long career. However, it can also be an excellent platform to start a career in business administration at a more senior level.

Possible receptionist career pathways:

Junior

Office assistant

Most common qualification: Certificate III in Business (BSB30120)
Administrative assistant

Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Business (Administration) (BSB40120)

Mid

Administrative officer

Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Business (Administration) (BSB40120)
Executive assistant

Most common qualification: Certificate III in Business (BSB30120)

Senior

Business manager

Most common qualification: Diploma of Business (Business Development) (BSB50120)

To get the skills and knowledge you need to work confidently as a receptionist and to be in the best position to gain employment, explore these reception courses:

Certificate III in Business BSB30120

Study method In-class Online

This course provides you with the skills and knowledge in business administration tasks suitable for office administration or reception roles.

The average duration for this course is one year. You can study full-time or part-time, with flexible study methods available from some course providers.

Certificate IV in Business BSB40120

Study method In-class Online

This course covers a combination of specialist and more complex skills in office administration on a deeper level. It focuses on customer experience, digital technology, data literacy and problem-solving.

This qualification can lead to office administration, word processing, legal and medical receptionist, or office management roles.

The average duration of this course is one year. Study online and enrol at any time.

Related subjects

Jobs that require great team players, people that are excellent with customers and strong organisational skills come in many forms. Other roles in business support are plentiful and always looking for enthusiastic newcomers.