Answer inquiries and provide information to the general public, customers, visitors, and other interested parties regarding activities conducted at establishment and location of departments, offices, and employees within the organization.
SOC: 43-4171.00
Common Job Titles
Front Desk Receptionist
Greeter
Office Assistant
Receptionist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
MindsetReconcile conflicting stakeholder needs and organizational protocols when resolving complaints or managing difficult interactions.
Proficient
MindsetEngage visitors, customers, and the general public in professional and courteous interactions at the front desk or reception area.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain organizational structure, department locations, and services to diverse audiences including internal and external stakeholders.
Developing
KnowledgeApply multi-line telephone systems and switchboards to route calls and manage multiple inquiries simultaneously.
Developing
KnowledgeOperate appointment scheduling and calendar management software to coordinate meetings and optimize resource allocation.
Developing
KnowledgeCategorize incoming inquiries and correspondence using administrative knowledge and filing systems.
Developing
MindsetRespond to customer service requests with empathy and a service-oriented approach under time pressure.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate database software, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office applications to document visitor information and maintain accurate records.
Developing
KnowledgeApply security and public safety procedures while monitoring the reception area and verifying visitor credentials.
Developing
KnowledgeCoordinate administrative tasks including mail distribution, photocopying, and data entry using office equipment and managing competing priorities.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Receptionists and Information Clerks (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
964,530
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $28,280. 25th percentile: U.S. $32,660. 50th percentile: U.S. $37,230. 75th percentile: U.S. $44,070. 90th percentile: U.S. $48,870. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$28,280
10% of workers earn the following or more
$48,870
Workers on average earn
$38,480
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
Administrative3.9/5
English Language3.7/5
Computers and Electronics3.4/5
Mathematics2.7/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
