Receptionist Interview Questions and Answers
1-What skills do you believe would be beneficial for the role of a receptionist? An excellent balance of communication and organizational skills that would benefit the role as a receptionist, giving the ability to complete tasks efficiently and effectively whilst maintaining the ability to communicate professionally with clients is a must have. Also, experience with office equipment such as the computer, is essential.
2- What software and office administration hardware can you use? - I have worked previous jobs in which I have used computers, and can use the majority of office software, such as Microsoft word and Microsoft Excel and would be able to familiarize myself with any other software needed. I have also experience using photocopiers, printers and other office hardware and am thoroughly trained and efficient in using these machines.
3- What is an acceptable typing speed for a receptionist? – The ideal minimum typing speed of sixty five words a minute with a 10% error margin using software such as Microsoft Word would be highly beneficial for the role of a receptionist. It would reduce the amount of time certain tasks would take and ensure the most productive working day.
4 – State any qualifications that would be beneficial to the role of a receptionist. - GCSE’s or above in subjects such as Maths, English, Information Computer Technology, French, Spanish, German and Religious Education would all be beneficial in the role of receptionist. Foreign languages would be useful when dealing with various clients and English skills such as excellent spelling and grammar are essential.
5 – What would be the best way to handle the situation if a client becomes stressed of aggressive? - Follow the company protocol whilst staying calm and relaxed. Try to be as helpful as possible and try to calm the client to the best of my ability. Stopping the situation from developing is essential and keeping in a calm state of mind whilst trying to solve any issue arisen will be paramount to dealing with the situation.
6 – Why are people skills important in this job? – When working as a receptionist you encounter various people from various backgrounds and the ability to speak to anybody in a relaxed, calm and friendly manner is paramount to making the company appear professional and appealing to clients. Having experience with difficult customers is highly beneficial, as is dealing with demanding customers.