What's the role of a front desk officer?

I've been thinking about jobs I can do after high school and a front desk officer position seems interesting. Can anyone share what their usual responsibilities are and if there's any specific training needed for this role?

A front desk officer, often referred to as a receptionist or front desk clerk, primarily serves as the first point of contact for a company or organization. They interact directly with clients, customers or guests, either in person or via phone or email. Some of their common duties include greeting visitors, answering and directing incoming calls, providing information about the company, and managing appointments or reservations.

Additional responsibilities might include handling mail and deliveries, maintaining the reception area's cleanliness and organization, and performing basic administrative tasks such as filing, photocopying, or managing a petty cash fund.

As for training, formal education beyond a high school diploma is typically not necessary for this role, although some companies may prefer applicants who have completed post-secondary courses or degrees in fields like business administration or hospitality.

What's important are your skills. Being a front desk officer requires excellent communication and customer service skills. Computer literacy, especially in applications like Word and Excel, is also important as you'll likely need to manage customer records or appointments. Good organizational skills and the ability to multitask, as well as a friendly and professional demeanor, are also vital since you'll be representing the company's public image.

In terms of training, most businesses offer on-the-job training for new front desk officers to familiarize them with the company's systems, procedures, and expectations. However, it could be beneficial to have some additional training or certifications in customer service or office management to make your resume more attractive to potential employers.