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Free template · Operations & Admin

Receptionist job description template

A receptionist greets visitors, answers and routes phone calls, and manages the front desk of an office, clinic, or business. They shape first impressions and keep check-ins, appointments, and messages flowing smoothly. Copy this template, replace the bracketed parts, then run it through the free JD Analyzer.

Check it for bias

Receptionist

About the role

[Company Name] is looking for a friendly, organized Receptionist to be the first point of contact for our visitors and callers. You will greet guests, answer and route calls, manage appointments, and keep the front desk running smoothly. If you enjoy helping people and stay calm when things get busy, we would love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

  • Greet visitors warmly and manage sign-in and badges
  • Answer, screen, and route phone calls promptly
  • Take accurate messages and deliver them to the right people
  • Schedule and confirm appointments and meeting rooms
  • Receive, sort, and distribute mail and packages
  • Keep the reception area tidy and welcoming
  • Respond to general inquiries by phone and email
  • Support administrative tasks such as data entry and filing
  • Follow security and emergency procedures for the front desk
  • Protect the privacy of employees and clients

Requirements

  • Customer service, hospitality, or front desk experience
  • Clear, courteous phone and in-person communication
  • Ability to handle several tasks at once while staying organized
  • Basic computer skills, including email and scheduling tools
  • Reliability and punctuality for front desk coverage
  • Discretion with confidential information

Nice to have

  • Experience with multi-line phone systems or visitor management software
  • Experience in a medical, legal, or professional office
  • Bilingual skills that match your customer base
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office or Google Workspace

Pay

[Pay range] · [Benefits summary]

Pay transparency

Many states, including CA, CO, NY, WA, and IL, require a good-faith pay range in job postings, so check your state's rules and list the range.

See the rules for your state in HR laws by state.

Write a more inclusive posting

  • Avoid 'attractive' or 'well-groomed' appearance language; describe a dress code neutrally if one applies
  • Do not require 'unaccented English'; require clear communication with visitors and callers instead
  • Avoid 'must stand all day' unless essential; many receptionist tasks can be done seated, and accommodations should be noted

Hiring a receptionist?

Prepare the interview too: 15 questions, red flags and questions to avoid.

Receptionist interview questions

Frequently asked questions

What should I look for when interviewing a receptionist?

Look for warmth, composure during busy moments, and accuracy. A brief phone role-play quickly shows how a candidate greets, listens, and routes callers.

Can I require a receptionist to speak English without an accent?

Accent requirements carry national origin discrimination risk. Instead, require the job-related ability to communicate clearly with your visitors and callers, and check your state's rules.

What is the difference between a receptionist and an administrative assistant?

A receptionist focuses on the front desk, including visitors, phones, and appointments, while an administrative assistant handles broader office support. Many small businesses combine the two, so describe the actual mix of duties.

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