Receptionist Jobs and Salaries

© 2012 by Aurelio Locsin.

Because receptionists are usually the first employees that customers see when walking in the company door, they act as the important first impression for any organization. A neat and professional appearance, and a friendly personality are some of their necessary characteristics. Their salaries and jobs differ according to employer and location.

No formal education other than a high school diploma is necessary for receptionists. Employers typically train these employees, informally through more experienced workers, or through more formal sessions that may last several weeks. An organization's phone and communication systems are often covered in a classroom setting. The ability to listen, speak clearly, and interact positively with customers, vendors and staff are pluses. So is experience with computer software such as word processors, databases, and spreadsheets. Many of these skills can be developed in high school or through classes at local business schools or community colleges.

Receptionists answer and forward telephone calls, greet visitors and make them feel welcome, and perform miscellaneous clerical tasks such as entering customer information into databases or typing correspondence. Their duties vary by employer type. For example, in beauty salons, they make take appointments and schedule hairdressers. In doctors' offices, they may take medical information from patients and process insurance claims. Besides computers and phone systems, they also use copiers and fax machines. They may help set up lobbies and reception areas by providing coffee and snacks.

Although they earned as much as $37,500 per year, or $18.03 per hour, or as little as $17,900 annually, or $8.60 hourly, receptionists averaged a yearly $26,730, or $12.85 per hour, as of May 2011, states the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Over 18 percent found positions in doctors' offices, their largest employers, where mean salaries ran $27,310 per year, or $13.13 per hour. Other big employers were dentists' offices, personal care services and the offices of other health practitioners. The highest pay was with the Postal Service at a mean annual $53,940, or $25.94 per hour, followed by scientific research and development services, averaging $34,870 per year, or $16.77 per hour.

Receptionist jobs, as are those of many administrative workers, are considered entry level positions. Workers who gain experience, show initiative and display organizational skills can advance to supervisory positions that oversee clerks and other receptionists. With additional education, receptionists can become administrative department managers. The BLS sees jobs for receptionists increasing at 24 percent from 2010 to 2020, which is far greater than the 14 percent expected for all jobs in all industries, and more than the 10 percent predicted for all office support positions. Although business tasks are becoming increasingly automated, the job of greeting customers and adding a personal voice to the phones cannot be replaced by computer. Many of the jobs will come from the rapidly growing healthcare industry. Those wanting to take advantage of this trend can supplement their training with classes on medical terminology and procedures. The best opportunities will go to those who show extensive computer skills.