How to Be Front Desk Attendant - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 17, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The lack of a front desk attendant can have a significant effect on the customer experience. Without an efficient and friendly receptionist to greet customers and answer questions, a business may appear unprofessional and disorganized. This can lead to a negative first impression, resulting in customers feeling unwelcome and unvalued.

It can also lead to confusion and frustration as customers are unable to quickly access the information they need. Furthermore, without a front desk attendant, businesses may miss out on opportunities to generate additional revenue as the attendant could have recommended additional services or products. having a knowledgeable and experienced front desk attendant is essential for providing a positive customer experience.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require front desk attendants to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Consider specialized training in hospitality. Many colleges, universities and technical schools offer programs in hotel and hospitality management, which may provide the skills for a successful career as a front desk attendant.
Gain experience in customer service. Many employers prefer applicants who have experience dealing with customers. Consider applying for entry-level positions in customer service to gain valuable experience.
Apply for a job as a front desk attendant. Check with local hotels and other hospitality-related businesses to find out if they are hiring front desk attendants.
Submit an up-to-date resume, cover letter and references. Employers usually require applicants to submit these materials as part of the job application process.
Prepare for an interview. Most employers conduct interviews as part of the hiring process for front desk attendants. Be prepared to answer questions about your customer service and hospitality experience.
Take a drug test and background check. Many employers require applicants to take a drug test and background check prior to hiring.
Complete on-the-job training. Most employers provide on-the-job training for new front desk attendants. Training may include learning how to check guests in and out, using the computer system, and handling guest complaints and requests.

The reliability and efficiency of a Front Desk Attendant is essential for providing a great customer experience. It starts with having the right skillset and knowledge of the job, as well as having a friendly and professional attitude. Ensuring they have the right resources and tools to do their job effectively is also important, as well as having a clear understanding of the organizations policies and procedures.

Having a streamlined process in place, such as a well-organized system for paperwork and record keeping, is also necessary. Finally, having an organized workspace and keeping up with the latest trends in customer service can help the Front Desk Attendant stay on top of their tasks, providing an efficient and reliable service to customers.

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Job Description

Greet visitors, answer inquiries and provide directions.
Monitor visitor access and maintain security awareness.
Maintain and update visitor log book.
Answer multi-line telephone system, take messages, and transfer calls as needed.
Receive, sort and distribute incoming mail and deliveries.
Update appointment calendars, manage meeting room bookings, and other administrative tasks as assigned.
Track office supplies inventory and order supplies as necessary.
Maintain a neat and organized work area.
Assist with other office projects or tasks as needed.
Provide support to other departments as needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent customer service skills
Ability to multitask
Knowledge of basic computer applications and software
Knowledge of company policies and procedures
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Excellent communication skills
Attention to detail
Ability to handle and resolve customer complaints
Ability to maintain a professional attitude
Ability to handle cash and credit card transactions accurately

Being a front desk attendant requires a wide range of skills and qualities to be successful. The most important skill to have is excellent customer service. This means being friendly and professional with customers, taking the time to listen to their needs and responding to them in a timely manner.

A front desk attendant should also possess great organizational skills, as they are often responsible for managing multiple tasks at once. they should have solid problem-solving skills to quickly and efficiently resolve customer issues. Finally, an effective front desk attendant should be able to think on their feet and make decisions quickly without compromising quality of service.

As a result of possessing these skills, a front desk attendant is able to foster positive customer relations, enhance customer satisfaction and ultimately help the business succeed.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in customer service?
How would you handle a difficult customer situation?
How would you prioritize tasks when working in a busy environment?
Describe your organizational and multitasking skills.
What do you know about our company and our services?
What do you think is the most important responsibility of a front desk attendant?
How would you handle a customer complaint?
What methods do you use to stay organized?
What challenges have you faced in previous positions and how did you address them?
What do you think makes a successful front desk attendant?

Common Tools in Industry

Computer. used to complete administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, responding to emails and creating reports (eg: Microsoft Office Suite).
Telephone. used to answer calls, take messages, transfer calls and provide general customer service (eg: VoIP phone system).
Filing System. used to organize and store documents in an orderly fashion (eg: alphabetical filing system).
Security System. used to ensure the safety of guests and staff (eg: CCTV cameras).
Copier/Scanner. used to make copies of documents or scan them into digital formats (eg: Canon imageRUNNER).
Credit Card Machine. used to process payments from customers (eg: Verifone terminal).
Cash Register. used to keep track of money taken in and out (eg: NCR Silver POS system).
Intercom System. used to communicate with other staff members (eg: Panasonic KX-TDA series).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA)
International Association of Conference Centers (IACC)
Hotel & Lodging Association of Canada (HLAC)
International Association of Hotel & Restaurant Trainers (IAHRT)
National Restaurant Association (NRA)
National Society of Hotel Management (NSHM)
International Council on Hotel, Restaurant & Institutional Education (ICHRIE)
American Resort & Lodging Association (ARLA)
International Hotel & Restaurant Association (IH&RA)
Hospitality Financial & Technology Professionals (HFTP)

We also have Front Desk Supervisor, Front Office Coordinator, and Front Desk Clerk jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Hotel Receptionist. A hotel receptionist is a person who is responsible for the day-to-day front desk operations of a hotel, including greeting guests, checking them in and out, answering inquiries and providing other services.
Concierge. A concierge is a person who assists guests with various tasks such as making reservations, providing information about the area and arranging transportation.
Bellhop. A bellhop is a hotel employee who assists guests by transporting their luggage to their rooms and providing other services as requested.
Valet. A valet is a hotel employee who assists guests with parking their cars and retrieving their vehicles when requested.
Guest Relations. A guest relations specialist is a hotel employee who assists guests by providing information about the facility and its services, addressing complaints and resolving any issues that may arise.
Housekeeping. Housekeeping staff are responsible for cleaning guest rooms and common areas of the hotel, as well as performing other duties related to upkeep of the facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Front Desk Attendant?

The primary role of a Front Desk Attendant is to provide excellent customer service by greeting guests, answering their inquiries, and providing general administrative assistance.

What qualifications are necessary for a Front Desk Attendant?

Qualifications for a Front Desk Attendant typically include excellent communication and customer service skills, proficiency in computer programs related to the job, and basic knowledge of office procedures.

What duties does a Front Desk Attendant typically perform?

Duties for a Front Desk Attendant typically involve providing a welcoming and hospitable atmosphere, answering phone calls and emails, taking reservations, managing cash registers, and other administrative tasks.