What Is a Hotel Receptionist and How to Become One
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What Do Hotel Receptionists Do?
A hotel receptionist greets hotel guests, assists with booking rooms, and maintains the front desk in a hotel. In addition to these duties, a hotel receptionist confirms guest in-room purchases during check-out, updates hotel records, and offers add-on services to guests. Hotel receptionists also work with management to organize the front desk and ensure that guests have a pleasant stay. When guests receive poor customer service or experience hospitality problems, they often consult the hotel receptionist first, so the hotel receptionist must be prepared to handle any issues reported by guests.
How to Become a Hotel Receptionist
To work as a hotel receptionist, you need to develop strong customer service skills. Employers prefer candidates who have worked in the hospitality industry and have experience with bookkeeping, account management, and front desk operations. Consider earning an associate degree in management or hospitality. You should be proficient in using guest management software, accounting software, and Microsoft Office Suite. Fluency in a second language can also be helpful in this career.
How to Be a Good Hotel Receptionist
A hotel receptionist is usually the first point of contact for a hotel guest. A good hotel receptionist ensures that this initial interaction is friendly, professional, and helpful. You need a thorough knowledge about hotel accommodations, services, and amenities so that you can be a resource for guests. Resolve guest complaints in a timely manner and maintain communication with guests about the status of their complaints. A good hotel receptionist will develop a rapport with guests and learn the preferences and needs of repeat customers.
Hotel Receptionist Job Description Sample
With this Hotel Receptionist job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Hotel Receptionist role.
Job Summary
We are seeking a friendly, organized hotel receptionist to join our growing team. In this position, you will welcome guests to our hotel, make room reservations, and attend to guests’ needs or questions. The ideal candidate will be committed to ensuring that guests experience maximum satisfaction, presenting an excellent image of our hotel that leaves a lasting impression.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Greet hotel guests; answer any questions or concerns
- Provide an outstanding guest experience
- Maintain an orderly front desk
- Operate computer programs and multi-line phone systems
- Maintain guest records and book reservations
- Complete basic cashier and bookkeeping responsibilities
- Contact necessary staff to solve problems when challenges arise, ensuring guest comfort
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Significant work experience handlingguest service responsibilities, preferably in a hotel/reception setting
- Strong working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite and all other relevant computer programs
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Fluent in English
- A proactive approach to dealing with issues that may arise
- Highly organized, able to multitask and prioritize and work under pressure
