Who is a receptionist and what do they do? The receptionist runs the reception desk, i.e. the place where guests make their first contact with the hotel or any other kind of institution that offers accommodation.
What are the activities of the receptionist? Assigning rooms according to the guest’s orders and requests – welcoming guests – giving advice and information to guests, including conversation in a foreign language – dealing with complaints and requests from the guests – performing some special services, like providing a wake-up call by telephone, transmitting messages etc. – keeping prescribed records and doing necessary office work, organising effective use of the hotel’s capacities – contact with the bank, exchanging foreign currencies – accepting foreign money and credit cards.
Where is it done and under what conditions? Predominantly in the reception room of hotels, hostels or camps, in an environment with few adverse conditions, except for work in shifts.
What tools/equipment do they use? The principal tools used are computers, telephones and the spoken word.
What do you need to succeed? You need to successfully complete secondary education (high school) with a school leaving certificate (university entrance level), knowledge of languages, cultivated appearance and manners, ability to deal with people, a good memory, ability to improvise, accuracy and reliability.