Sun Moritz began work as a receptionist at the age of 15, eventually moving into executive reception, where she stayed for seven years. Employed by government organizations as well as high profile companies in the city, Sun realized the importance of first impressions for any business or corporation, and thereby the need for receptionists to be 100% professional at all times. This led to the opening of her training academy in London, Miss Reception.

“First impressions count no matter if it’s over the phone or face to face. A smart and immaculately presented person will always turn heads and collect looks of appreciation. The Academy has trained all types of individuals and luckily there have never been any real nightmares on the appearance front! The practical side is what we focus on more for obvious reasons. People either get appearance or they don’t. Clients are not receptive to lack of dress sense as this is expected as the norm. Training and the correct skills to do the job are vital if you are going to survive in this competitive industry.”

Sun, you’ve moved away from being the public face of someone else’s company, to running your own. You also have a 22 month old son, how do you cope?

I come from a long line of business people so business runs through my veins. I always wanted to be a journalist or a newsreader. Ultimately, to be the best at everything was always my ambition. I’m extremely competitive and the word ‘no’ simply does not exist. There is always a way. My upbringing was strong with no mercy if you got things wrong. I have always felt empowered and driven about everything I do.

My son is my reason for a lot of what I do. He is an incredible motivation. I find juggling work a challenge. Miss Reception was also born out of wanting to push the barriers of an enjoyable work/life balance. My husband is very supportive, in fact, he is my rock. I have a firm belief that you should have the choice to be with your family and work your desired hours. I pretty much work 7 days a week as this is the only way for an entrepreneur to work. A normal 9-5 is impossible if you require quality of life.

Were you an attentive student at school?

No, I was the worst student going. I truanted with my best friend for the last year and it took the school almost six months to realise we were not there! The reports were always the same ‘Sunny is extremely bright but if only she would apply herself more’. I saw school as a social event and I just wanted to get it over with and get on with becoming an entrepreneur. My parents were less than impressed, especially under my father’s strict regime of ‘Be the best’. He is over the moon now.

What advice or tips would you give to someone working on a very busy reception area under pressure?

Confidence – Composure – Courtesy is the Miss Reception motto. Breath, smile and focus. I always found these roles exciting and fast paced. The day would just fly because there was so much to do. Common sense plays a huge part and never be scared of asking for help. There have been many occasions when receptionists have missed something vital because their station is so hectic. A journal is imperative to keep on top of things and never ever forget to double check everything. You are the eyes and the ears so a sharp mind and concentration is key.

Can you give an example of a bad experience with a receptionist?

A receptionist had me on hold without having the courtesy to clarify if this was ok. When I complained, she then moaned about me to her colleague (without placing me on hold) and then proceed to gossip about other people in their company. This was extremely unprofessional.

Is there a qualification to be gained at the end of the course?

Yes, all students are given a professional reception diploma which will soon be recognised as an equivalent of an NVQ in reception training and standards.

Do you have any amusing stories from the students at the academy?

Yes, there was one student who took so much away from their course, when they returned to work they had adopted a ‘defiant’ attitude about their reception role. They literally went changing rooms gungho style and the whole reception area was transformed much to the surprise and the approval (thank goodness) of their colleagues. Staff did not know if they had turned up at the right company on the Monday morning.