Presentation

Candidate should be immaculate, from hair to shoes, this is vital for a front of house position. Think of the client base and dress accordingly. Don’t smell of cigarettes.

Manner

Candidates should present themselves as confident, but always pleasant and smile as often as possible, without seeming nervous. Don’t lie about skills you don’t have, but stress your ability to learn new things.

Questions you may be asked:

See some examples below. If you prepare your thoughts on these, you won’t be thrown so easily.

• Why did you leave your last job? (NEVER be critical of your previous employers)
  
  
• What reception experience have you gained so far? What are your current duties?
  
  
• What aspect of reception work appeals to you the most?
  
  
• What personal qualities do you think make a good receptionist?
  
  
• What are your career ambitions? (Happy to remain in a secure position, or aspire to management position?)
  
  
• What skills are your strongest, and which are your weakest? (make sure your weakest aren’t essential for the position you are being interviewed for)
  
  
• How flexible are you?
  
  
• How would you fill your time during a quiet period?
  
  
• Are you better working with a team, or by yourself? Why?
  
  
• How would you cope with a rude client?
  
  
• How would you cope on your own if the phone was ringing and a client was at reception?
  
  
• Give an example of when you provided excellent customer service.

Questions you should ask:

Candidates should prepare questions in order to show initiative.

• How many receptionists are currently part of the team?
  
  
• What does the company expect from me on a daily basis?
  
  
• Would any specialist training be required?