What is the Role of Receptionists and Information Clerks in Various Organizations?
Receptionists and information clerks are the first point of contact for clients, customers, and visitors in different organizations. They are responsible for answering and directing phone calls, receiving visitors, and providing general information about the organization.
Some of the examples of their responsibilities include:
- Answering phone calls and taking messages if necessary
- Determining the nature and purpose of the visit and directing the visitors accordingly
- Maintaining different types of records and files
- Performing administrative tasks such as typing, photocopying, and scanning documents
Education and Training to become a Receptionist or Information Clerk
Education and basic computer skills are essential for getting jobs as receptionists or information clerks. Many community colleges offer courses on computer applications, including software like Microsoft Word and Excel, which are commonly used in receptionist positions. Basic vocational training in telephone skills, customer service, and office procedures are also helpful.
Progression in the Field
Receptionists and information clerks can progress in their career by continuing to develop their skills and taking on more responsibilities. For instance, they can move into supervisory roles, where they oversee other receptionists. Alternatively, they can transition to administrative assistant or executive assistant positions.
How to Get into the Field as a Newcomer?
To become a receptionist or information clerk, individuals should have good communication and interpersonal skills. They should also be detail-oriented, courteous, and have basic computer and administrative skills. One can start as an entry-level receptionist in retail stores, hotels, or small offices. It’s always good to look for internships or traineeships that offer paid or unpaid work experience.
In conclusion, receptionists and information clerks are an integral part of various organizations, responsible for communicating with clients, customers, and visitors. While an entry-level job doesn’t require any formal education, having computer, customer service, and interpersonal skills are essential for a rewarding career in this field. By continuing to develop skills and taking on new challenges, a receptionist can progress to higher-level positions in the organization.
Salary Data for Receptionists and Information Clerks
Receptionists and information clerks perform administrative and clerical tasks such as answering phones, greeting visitors, and providing general information about an organization. According to the salary data, the national average salary for this occupation ranges from $21,694.40 to $48,838.40 depending on the job level and whether the position is full-time or part-time.
Unionized receptionists and information clerks tend to earn a higher average salary than non-union members at $42,494.40 compared to $34,361.60, respectively. In terms of geographic location, the best-paid region for this occupation is in the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA area where receptionists and information clerks can earn up to $48,838.40 on average. On the other hand, the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area offers the least average salary at $21,486.40 for part-time workers.
Overall, it is important to note the variations in salary for receptionists and information clerks depend on factors such as job level, union membership, and geographic location.
