Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks: Responsibilities, Education, and Career Progression
Overview
Hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks are an essential part of the hospitality industry. They are often the face of the hotel, the first point of contact for guests, and responsible for ensuring that their stay is an enjoyable one. Their main duties include managing reservations, checking guests in and out, answering questions, and dealing with complaints.
Examples of Job Responsibilities
Hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks have a variety of responsibilities. Here are some examples:
- Greet guests and process check-ins and check-outs
- Answer questions and provide information about the hotel and local area
- Manage room reservations and assignments
- Handle cash and credit card transactions
- Assist with special requests or needs, such as arranging transportation or recommending local restaurants
- Respond to guest complaints and resolve issues or concerns
- Maintain a clean and organized front desk area
Education and Training Requirements
There are no formal education or training requirements for becoming a hotel, motel, or resort desk clerk, although a high school diploma or equivalent is often required. Most training is done on the job, and new hires are typically trained by experienced employees or managers.
However, some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a certificate program or associate degree in hospitality or a related field. These programs can provide additional training in customer service, communication, computer skills, and other relevant areas.
Career Progression
Hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks can advance to higher level positions with experience and additional training. Here are some examples of potential career paths:
- Assistant Manager or Front Office Manager
- General Manager
- Corporate or Regional Manager
To progress between levels, desk clerks may need to demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. They may also need to complete additional training or education programs.
How to Get Into the Field
If you’re interested in becoming a hotel, motel, or resort desk clerk, there are a few steps you can take:
- Get a high school diploma or equivalent
- Look for entry-level positions at local hotels or resorts
- Gather work experience and develop strong customer service and communication skills
- Consider completing a certificate program or associate degree in hospitality or a related field
- Take advantage of on-the-job training and career advancement opportunities
Overall, hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks play a critical role in ensuring that guests have a positive experience and feel welcomed at their accommodations. With the right skills and experience, they can progress to higher level positions and build a rewarding career in the hospitality industry.
| Geography | Level | Salary (National Average) | Salary (Best Paid) | Salary (Least Paid) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US National Average | Level 03 | $27,747.20 | N/A | $24,856.00 |
| US National Average | Level 04 | $31,137.60 | N/A | $29,411.20 |
| US National Average | Not able to be leveled | $35,068.80 | N/A | $31,595.20 |
| US National Average | Entry | $28,641.60 | N/A | N/A |
| US National Average | Experienced | $32,323.20 | N/A | N/A |
| US National Average | All levels (Nonunion) | $30,076.80 | N/A | $26,416.00 |
| US National Average | All levels (Full-time) | $32,177.60 | $37,315.20 (Not able to be leveled) | $28,246.40 |
| US National Average | Level 03 (Full-time) | $28,932.80 | N/A | $25,833.60 |
| US National Average | Level 04 (Full-time) | $32,676.80 | N/A | $30,222.40 |
| US National Average | Not able to be leveled (Full-time) | $37,315.20 | N/A | $31,532.80 |
| US National Average | Entry (Full-time) | $29,452.80 | N/A | N/A |
| US National Average | Experienced (Full-time) | $34,091.20 | N/A | N/A |
| US National Average | All levels (Part-time) | $27,206.40 | N/A | $24,232.00 |
| US National Average | Level 03 (Part-time) | $26,478.40 | N/A | $23,483.20 |
| US National Average | Entry (Part-time) | $27,830.40 | N/A | N/A |
| US National Average | All levels (Time-based pay) | $30,139.20 | N/A | $26,665.60 |
| Hawaii | All levels (Full-time) | N/A | $53,227.20 | $47,840.00 |
| South Carolina | All levels (Time-based pay) | N/A | $26,208.00 | $23,379.20 |
Hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks have a job level of 03, 04, or not able to be leveled, with an average national salary of $27,747.20, $31,137.60, and $35,068.80, respectively. The salary of entry and experienced desk clerks are $28,641.60 and $32,323.20, respectively. In terms of unionization, nonunionized desk clerks have an average salary of $30,076.80. Full-time, all-level desk clerks have an average salary of $32,177.60, with desk clerks in Hawaii earning the highest average salary of $53,227.20, and desk clerks in South Carolina earning the lowest average salary of $26,208.00.
Unionization can potentially affect the salary and benefits of hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks. Unionized employees may receive higher pay rates, better benefits, and greater job security. However, unionization may also lead to more rigid job requirements and restrictions on promotions.
