The good receptionist: the rules for becoming one!

In recent years I have met and gotten to know young aspiring hotel receptionists and among their questions the most "popular" was: “How can I start working in a hotel? what to do to become a good receptionist? “

Well… certainly starting a profession is not easy but we all have opportunities and we must make the most of them.

So, where do we start? Let's follow together the various steps to overcome in order to achieve this role:

Step 1: Qualification

Having a tourism, hotel or linguistic diploma or, even better, a degree in Tourism Sciences or Foreign Languages ​​are certainly a point in your favor during a the interview in an accommodation facility, as they attest to your preparation. However, having a qualification relating to this sector is not mandatory. I happened to read job advertisements from some hotels, especially small ones, which hire staff at the reception desk even without a specific qualification in the tourism sector.

In any case, they exist training courses proposed by both private and public bodies dedicated to this profession. If you are interested I recommend you go to the youth information office in your city or do a search on the internet to find out what is offered. Give priority to free courses (in reality there are few, but it's worth the wait).

Step 2: Learn English

Compared to the qualification, knowing the English language is very important. In the world of business and commerce the English language it is the most spoken and known, consequently it is essential in our sector. A good receptionist knows at least one international language. Also in this case you can learn one or more languages ​​using courses held in your city, online courses, forums, blogs, or simply in the good old way: travelling. I really love listening to the music of the language I'm learning, and it's a really fun way!

Step 3: Get experience

The qualification does not bring experience, but serves as a basis. Have work experience, especially in the relevant sector, can help you find work more easily. How to do? Start by sending your CV and request to do an internship or participate in the various tenders offered by the State. There are also paid training courses (or Masters) which, in addition to the classroom hours, include short periods of experience in the field. I recently discovered this site workout which will allow you to work in a structure of any type in exchange for food, accommodation, experience and... learn a new language!

Step 3: Take care of your look

Image is truly an important factor in a work environment, even for those who want to be a good receptionist.

Do you wonder why?!? Because who works at the reception represents the company! She is the first person the guest meets when she arrives at the hotel and is the last to say goodbye when she leaves. I would also add that a well-groomed appearance gives you self-esteem and confidence. It seems strange, but taking care of ourselves and our look makes us feel better, we communicate more easily and whoever is on the other side of the counter will perceive our safety and will be more inclined to listen to us.

Step 4: Think Positive

A good receptionist must always be ready to deal with the daily problems of the workplace.

In my experience, for example, I have often had to welcome customers who were tired due to a long journey, because they could not find parking for their car or they may be irritated due to the interruption of the heating or for various reasons. Have efficient skills Problem Solving and adequate empathy towards our customer will allow us to intervene on the problem encountered in a timely manner. A good dose of positivity will make everything easier for us 😉

Step 5: Update

Study, train and update these are actions that I still continue to do today despite my experience in this sector. The world changes, the market is constantly evolving, and our customers' analysis perspectives are becoming increasingly varied. Continuing to update yourself does not mean being behind, but simply means being active, I want to face the world of work and its complications in the best possible way. So... let's never stop keeping ourselves updated!

These steps represent only a small part but an excellent start to becoming a good receptionist.

I followed them all! And how did you start your career as a receptionist? Do you have any other tips for becoming a good receptionist? Share your experience with us by leaving a comment 😉