RECEPTION SKILLS

S-P-E-L-L it out! Waiting visitors always prefer knowing what's coming next. It's not a secret you want to impress them, so don't keep the process secret from them.

Sometimes visitors come neatly one after the other at helpful intervals... but most of the time they won't. Running a reception can often feel like quite a juggling act!

Some customers like to be dealt with pedal to the metal. Others like to take their time. You'll never know unless you let them show you the way!

From your head down to your toes, your body language says a lot more than you think. Everybody can tell if somebody has negative body language and positive body language skills can be perfected by anybody!

Receptionists have to deal with phone calls a lot. The very best of receptionists balance being both a phone call usher and bouncer at the same time.

Sometimes customers having to wait is unavoidable. But having bored customers staring at the ceiling or banging their heads against the wall... now that's avoidable!

All manner of visitors cross a receptionist's desk, which makes perfecting the manner with which they're greeted all the more important. Remember: treat everyone the same... spectacularly!

A receptionist's job is to ensure the overall smooth running of the organisation and the best way to do that is by making sure you're an expert on as much as possible.

So long, farewell, au revoir… saying goodbye is the last opportunity you'll have to make an immediate impression on your visitor. So don't kiss this golden opportunity goodbye, make the most of it!

Congratulations, you're now a reception skills pro! Test your knowledge by taking the quiz below.