Receptionist Resume Example

As a receptionist, you need to be able to give an excellent first impression. Your resume’s qualifications section, found just below your contact information, may be just the thing that lands you an interview. That means it needs to accomplish the task of showing why you’re the perfect fit not only for an open position, but also for the company offering that position and its culture.

Take a look at our receptionist resume sample and you’ll see we’ve done away with the old objective statement and swapped it for a summary of qualifications. Employers know you’re looking for a job, so there’s no need for you to start your application off by saying you’re seeking employment. Instead, use this area to summarize your professional background and the level of experience you bring to the table. Towards the end of your summary, touch on hard and soft skills you have that relate to the position.

It’s best to keep this section to no more than three short sentences. This gives companies a general idea of who you are and invites them to ask further questions in an interview. If you can, feature qualities that closely match what the employer is looking for, as stated in the job listing.

Your resume’s header is a type of handshake between you and potential employers. To make the best impression, your name should be larger than all other text on your resume. Use the same font as you do the rest of the document, and feel free to put your name in bold type.

With regards to font selection, take a look at what we have on the receptionist resume sample. Rather than something dated such as Times New Roman or overly casual like Comic Sans, you instead want to stick to a more professional and modern selection.

Below your name, be sure to add a professional email address (preferably one with your first and last name) and your cell phone number. Know that you are neither expected nor required to add your home address to your resume header. However, you may want to include your city and state to let hiring managers know where you are.

Employers expect applicants for receptionist positions to have some knowledge of computer software, such as Google Suite and Envoy. Before giving hiring managers a full rundown of all the technical proficiencies you possess, look to the job listing for guidance.

If it mentions specific software expertise that you have, be sure to list it near the top of your skills section. That way, potential employers know right off the bat that you possess the necessary knowledge. Then, include the technical experience you feel is the most necessary for a receptionist position or the specific company you wish to work for.

One additional note about your computer skills: Use bullet lists. Bullets look great on the page and are quick and easy for hiring managers to read. In the skills list in particular, whittle each line down to as few words as possible, and know that complete sentences aren’t always necessary. Look to our resume sample for how to best lay out software knowledge on your own document and integrate it into not only the skills section, but into the work history area as well.

If you have a lot of experience as a receptionist, you may already have a solid idea of the duties and responsibilities common to the role. You should also look to the job listing for the position you’re applying for to get a more targeted rundown of the expectations you’ll have to fulfill if hired.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offers a typical rundown of responsibilities and duties for receptionists including:

• Handle incoming and outgoing physical and electronic mail
• Answer phone calls and either forward them or take a message
• Schedule and confirm appointments while keeping calendars updated
• Maintain, file, and copy digital and physical documents
• Greet and welcome guests, clients, and visitors
• Enter data into the company computer system

Receptionists need to have both hard and soft skills, but you may wonder what specifics to include on your resume. Reviewing the job posting, and think about what skills will allow you to better perform your duties and responsibilities. For example, if the job involves a lot of typing or computer use, touch on how many words per minute you can type. If there’s a lot of equipment you’ll use on a day-to-day basis, you can mention what type of copiers, multi-line phone systems, and electronic devices you’re familiar with.

Don’t be afraid to add specific skills from the job description. Hiring managers look for these abilities and often prioritize resumes that have them explicitly stated.

Not to worry if you’re applying for your first receptionist job. Rather than focus on experience you don’t have, put the spotlight on useful and transferable skills and achievements. For instance, if you’re an excellent communicator, manage your time well, or are great with people, focus on these qualities. Employers are likely to find such abilities useful in a receptionist.

Possessing a degree or having completed college courses could also set you up for success. Don’t skimp on the education section of an entry-level resume, and bear in mind that many employers look for enthusiastic talent and fresh ideas.