Why a front desk employee is crucial to your business

The person at the front desk is the first person customers meet when they come to your business. How they interact with your customers and staff has a huge impact on your business’s reputation. Whether they’re taking care of administrative duties or answering customer questions, it’s essential you hire someone you can trust to represent your business.

What is a front desk employee?

Most commonly ‘the front desk’ is a term used in hotels and hospitality but many businesses also have front desk employees. Very often receptionists are situated directly in front of or nearby the main entrance, so they are often responsible for managing the in-flow and out-flow of people. This could include everything from greeting customers and receiving deliveries, to signing staff in and out and similar admin tasks.

What does an average workday look like?

The role of a front desk employee might change depending on how much administrative support is expected in the role. Most often, front desk employees are responsible for checking guests in and out, answering phone calls and focusing on customer needs. 

Some general tasks a front desk employee might be expected to complete include:

• Greeting customers

• Dealing with customer questions 

• Checking guests in and out

• Answering incoming calls and/or emails

• Receiving letters, packages and sometimes supplier deliveries

• Monitoring and updating files on customers, staff and/or supplies

• Keeping the front desk and surrounding area tidy and presentable

How has COVID-19 changed the job of a front desk employee?

COVID-19 had a huge impact on the hospitality industry, and many front desk employees have been out of work for months. As lockdown lifts, the role of the front desk is taking on more responsibilities in maintaining hygiene and safety for customers in common areas. In addition to maintaining the common areas, the front desk worker also has to maintain social distancing and make sure both the staff and customers feel comfortable. 

What key skills should I be looking for?

Here are some key skills any front desk employee should have:

• Customer service skills

• Attention to detail

• Ability to work at pace

• Flexibility

• Time management

• Organizational skills

• Ability to work independently

• Prioritization

• Financial skills

• Reliability

Where can I hire a front desk employee?

There’s never been a better time to hire a front desk employee. Register now to post your job and start hiring!