Receptionist Role Description & Support

A Receptionist is often the first point of contact for visitors to your office, and first impressions matter.

Whether in a corporate, creative or private setting, a Receptionist plays a key role in representing your brand and setting the tone for every client, guest or team member they interact with.

While core duties typically include greeting visitors, answering calls and directing people to meeting rooms, no two Receptionist roles are exactly the same. Many positions include wider administrative responsibilities, and the role often requires someone who is adaptable, organised and proactive.

Additional duties may include:

• Booking meeting rooms and managing calendars
• Coordinating travel arrangements
• Handling post and couriers
• Ordering supplies and managing stock levels
• Supporting office events or client hospitality
• Assisting with onboarding and visitor systems
• Providing support to Office Managers or Personal Assistants

In many businesses, Receptionists are expected to support across a range of tasks and may take on elements of PA or Office Manager responsibilities, depending on the structure of the team.

This is a role best suited to someone who enjoys working with people, thrives on variety and is comfortable managing tasks of all sizes. A great Receptionist creates a calm, professional and welcoming environment, making a lasting difference to both staff and visitors alike.

If you are looking for a role where no two days are the same and people interaction is at the heart of what you do, a Receptionist job could be the ideal fit.

As the first point of contact for clients, visitors and callers, Receptionists play a crucial role in shaping how an organisation is perceived.

To succeed in a Receptionist role, strong communication skills are essential. The ability to multitask, stay calm under pressure and remain organised throughout the day is equally important. Receptionists are often required to manage several tasks at once, respond to last-minute changes and maintain professionalism at all times.

Familiarity with office management software, including spreadsheets and word processing tools, is often helpful. Many employers also value experience with telephone systems, booking platforms and visitor management software.

Receptionists play a vital role in shaping first impressions and ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of a business. Their contribution is not only visible to clients and visitors but often behind the scenes too, making them a highly valued part of any team.

The average salary for a Receptionist in the UK varies depending on several factors, including:

• The size and structure of the organisation
• Industry sector
• Location
• The level of experience required
• Whether the role includes wider support duties, such as PA or Office Manager tasks

Receptionist salaries can range from £25,000 to over £40,000 per annum, depending on the complexity of the role and the expectations of the business

Receptionist Salaries in Manchester:

• Junior Receptionist: £25,000 to £26,000 per annum
• Senior Receptionist: £28,000 to £35,000 per annum

Salary levels in Manchester will vary based on sector, experience and whether additional responsibilities such as facilities, HR support or PA tasks are included.

Receptionist Salaries in London:

• Junior Receptionist: £30,000 to £32,000 per annum
• Senior Receptionist: £35,000 to £40,000 per annum

Higher salaries in London often reflect the cost of living and the scale of business operations. We frequently see Receptionist roles with added PA responsibilities attracting salaries in the upper range.

1. Tailor your CV and cover letter
   Clearly outline your relevant experience, even if it comes from voluntary work, part-time jobs or internships. A tailored cover letter can make a strong first impression, especially for entry-level applications.
2. Gain experience in customer-facing roles
   If you are new to office environments, roles in retail, events or hospitality can help you develop the people skills and professionalism expected at reception.
3. Build your digital confidence
   Receptionists are often expected to use booking platforms, Microsoft Office, phone systems and visitor software. Free or low-cost online courses can help you build confidence before applying.
4. Be open to temporary or junior roles
   Short-term or temp roles can be an excellent route into Receptionist work, especially when trying to gain experience quickly.

Receptionist Recruitment Agencies

Once you have identified that you need to hire a Receptionist, it is important to understand what candidates are looking for in a role. Doing so will help you position your opportunity competitively and attract the best talent on the market. Receptionists are more likely to be drawn to a role where they feel respected, supported and able to grow within a business.

What Do Receptionists Look for in a Role?

To attract and retain a high-calibre Receptionist, you should consider the following:

• A sense of value and purpose in their contribution to the business
• Clear progression pathways, such as stepping into Office Manager or EA duties
• A supportive company culture where their voice is heard
• A competitive salary and benefits package
• The ability to develop their role and contribute ideas over time

Understanding these motivators will allow you to build a compelling job description and present your business in a way that appeals to Receptionists seeking their next opportunity.

Why Work with a Specialist Receptionist Recruitment Agency?

Partnering with a recruitment agency that specialises in business support roles brings several advantages. A specialist agency will:

• Understand the full scope of a Receptionist’s responsibilities
• Provide access to a pre-vetted network of suitable candidates
• Advise on how to position the role and write an effective job description
• Offer market insight and salary benchmarking
• Save you time by only shortlisting candidates who are the right fit
• Support you through interviews and offer management

At Lily Shippen, we take time to understand your business, your values and the type of individual who will succeed in your environment. We meet every candidate we represent and only introduce those we believe are truly aligned with your expectations.

How to Choose the Right Recruitment Partner

Choosing the right Receptionist recruitment agency is about more than just service — it is about trust, reputation and fit. Here are a few steps to help you decide:

Ask for referrals
Recommendations from your professional network are invaluable. Many of our clients come to us through referral, and 83% of our business comes from returning clients.

Check reviews
Look for agencies with strong Google or Feefo reviews from both clients and candidates. This offers insight into how they operate and the value they deliver.

Review their values
An agency’s values should be clearly outlined on their website. Do they align with your own? Look for integrity, transparency and commitment to service.

Explore their online presence
A reputable agency will share helpful, expert-led content on their website and social media channels. This reflects their understanding of the market and willingness to add value beyond placements.

Speak to them directly
Book a call or meeting. A credible agency will be happy to explain their process, demonstrate their expertise and outline how they can support your recruitment needs.

View our Receptionist Job Description Template