If you’re heading into a receptionist interview any time soon, then you need to be as prepared as possible. In a receptionist interview, you need to show that you are diligent, organised, have an eye for detail, and that you are comfortable with multi-tasking. Here, we’re going to be looking at 7 receptionist interview questions and answers.
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QUESTION #1 – Tell me about yourself and why you think you are best suited to the role of receptionist? – Receptionist Interview Questions and Answers
“I have studied the job description in detail and believe I have all the skills, competencies and experience required to perform the role of receptionist to an excellent standard. In addition, I have a keen eye for detail, can be relied upon to organise my working day so that all tasks are achieved, will never miss a deadline and I will act as a positive role model for your organisation. I understand that the role of receptionist means I will, more often than not, be the first point of contact for your customers and clients. I am presentable, I take my responsibilities seriously and I will always perform to a high standard, regardless of the task I am required to undertake.”
QUESTION #2 – How would you organise your working day as a receptionist?
“Being organised is perhaps the most important quality of a competent receptionist. To begin with, I would always create a list of tasks I was required to perform at the end of every working week. This means I would be fully prepared for the following week’s work and I would know exactly what I was going to do, and how I was going to achieve it. Pre-planning is one of my key strengths and I would identify which tasks would need to be done and in which order of priority. Once the task was complete, I would tick it off my checklist before moving on to the next one. In all my working life I have never missed a deadline, nor have I failed to achieve a task for my employer.”
“Being organised is perhaps the most important quality of a competent receptionist. To begin with, I would always create a list of tasks I was required to perform at the end of every working week. This means I would be fully prepared for the following week’s work and I would know exactly what I was going to do, and how I was going to achieve it. Pre-planning is one of my key strengths and I would identify which tasks would need to be done and in which order of priority. Once the task was complete, I would tick it off my checklist before moving on to the next one. In all my working life I have never missed a deadline, nor have I failed to achieve a task for my employer.”
QUESTION #3 – How would you deal with a difficult or angry customer or client on the phone? – Receptionist Interview Questions and Answers
“First and foremost, I would always remain calm and focused on resolving the issue. I would always follow my training and remember that I am representing your company. Therefore, I would need to create a positive impression on the caller. I would listen to their concerns or complaint and deal with it by investigating the problem in-line with company policy. I would use effective listening skills and demonstrate empathy wherever appropriate. Whilst I would not tolerate any form of bullying, aggressive language or swearing from a customer or client, I would do my utmost to resolve any issues for them whilst acting as a positive role model and first point of contact for the company. If, in the unlikely event I was not able to resolve the issue for them, I would seek advice from a manager.”
QUESTION #4 – Describe a time when you have multi-tasked whilst at work.
“I have plenty of multi-tasking experience in previous jobs and understand it is a key part of the receptionist’s role. I can remember one particular day in my previous job where I was required to answer the telephone, operate the online booking system, check-in customers as and when they arrived at the reception area, whilst also completing an important, time-sensitive project for my manager. Throughout the working day I prioritised the tasks effectively, remained calm during the busy periods and always operated with a smile and a happy persona. The key to multi-tasking effectively is to always prioritise the tasks appropriately whilst maintaining a high level of professionalism and conduct.”
QUESTION #5 – Are you a flexible employee and would you work overtime as a receptionist?
“I would 100% be willing to work overtime. I understand the role of a receptionist is to have a flexible approach to work. It’s not the type of job where you can just pack up and go home at the end of the working day when you are in the middle of either dealing with a customer, or if you are in the middle of an important project. I am most definitely a flexible employee and my life outside of work means I would be available to help out by working overtime, if and when the need arises.”
QUESTION #6 – What do you think are the top 3 essential qualities of a receptionist?
“I would say the top 3 essential qualities of a receptionist are an ability to multi-task, an ability to prioritise tasks accordingly and an ability to act as a positive role model for your employer. Without multi-tasking skills, you would fail as a receptionist. Without an ability to prioritise tasks, important jobs will not get competed, and without the ability to act as a positive role model for the company, the organisation would suffer and possibly lose business.”
QUESTION #7 – Why should we give you the job of receptionist over the other applicants?
“I feel strongly I am the best candidate for a number of reasons. First, having studied the job description, I have the skills, qualities and attributes to perform the role to an outstanding level. Second, I understand you need someone in this role who will represent your business in a positive light – I will do that for you. And third, I am a hard-working, dedicated, enthusiastic and loyal person who can be trusted to look after your clients and customers the way you want them to be looked after. If you give me the opportunity, I will not let you down.”
Conclusion – Receptionist Interview Questions and Answers
Now that you have our top 7 receptionist interview questions and answers, you’re almost ready to head to your interview. But first, why not check out our FREE online interview training course? It’s packed with extra tips and tricks to help you pass ANY interview.
Check out the Receptionist Interview Questions and Answers video below!
