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Receptionist

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Receptionists manage front desk duties, greet visitors, answer calls, and provide administrative support. They are the face of the company.

Average Salary

₹2,50,000

Growth

low

Satisfaction

medium

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Receptionist

To become a receptionist in India, several educational paths can be followed. While a specific degree isn't always mandatory, certain qualifications can significantly enhance your job prospects.

  • High School Diploma: A minimum requirement is completing 10+2 (high school) from a recognized board. Good communication skills and basic computer knowledge are essential.

  • Diploma Courses: Several diploma courses can provide specialized training:

    • Diploma in Office Management
    • Diploma in Front Office Management
    • Diploma in Secretarial Practice

  • Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree, though not always required, can open doors to better opportunities and higher pay. Relevant degrees include:

    • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English or Communications
    • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)

  • Essential Skills:

    • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial.
    • Computer Skills: Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and basic computer operations is necessary.
    • Interpersonal Skills: Ability to interact professionally with visitors and colleagues.
    • Organizational Skills: Managing schedules, handling calls, and maintaining records efficiently.

  • Additional Certifications: Consider certifications in customer service or office administration to enhance your resume.

Having a solid educational background combined with the right skills can help you succeed as a receptionist.

Study Path
Top Colleges

Here are some top colleges and institutes in India that offer courses relevant to becoming a receptionist:

  • Diploma Courses:

    • YMCA Institute, Delhi: Offers diploma courses in office management and secretarial practice.
    • NIIT: Provides various computer and IT skills courses.
    • Aptech Computer Education: Offers courses in office automation and basic computer skills.

  • Bachelor's Degree Programs:

    • Delhi University: Offers B.Com, BA in English, and BBA programs.
    • Mumbai University: Provides similar degree programs.
    • Christ University, Bangalore: Known for its BBA program.
    • Loyola College, Chennai: Offers BA and B.Com programs.

  • Other Institutes:

    • Indian Institute of Management (IIMs): While primarily for MBA programs, they offer short-term courses in communication and management skills.
    • Regional Vocational Training Institutes (RVTI): Offer vocational training in various office-related skills.

These institutions are recognized for their quality education and infrastructure, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers. Consider factors like course curriculum, faculty expertise, and placement opportunities when making your choice.

Fees

The fees for courses related to becoming a receptionist can vary widely depending on the type of institution and the course duration. Here’s a general overview:

  • Diploma Courses:

    • Government Institutes: INR 5,000 to INR 20,000 per year.
    • Private Institutes: INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per year.

  • Bachelor's Degrees:

    • Government Colleges: INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per year.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Study Materials: INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 per year.
    • Examination Fees: INR 500 to INR 2,000 per exam.

  • Online Courses:

    • Short-term Courses: INR 1,000 to INR 10,000 per course.

These figures are approximate and can vary based on the specific institution and location. Government institutes typically have lower fees due to subsidies, while private institutions may charge higher fees to cover operational costs and infrastructure. Always check the latest fee structure on the official website of the institute.

Related Exams

While there aren't specific entrance exams to become a receptionist, certain skills and qualifications can be assessed through various means. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Typing Tests: Many employers conduct typing tests to evaluate speed and accuracy, crucial for data entry and communication.

  • Computer Proficiency Tests: These tests assess your knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software.

  • Communication Skills Assessments: Employers may use interviews or written tests to evaluate your verbal and written communication skills.

  • Aptitude Tests: Some companies use aptitude tests to gauge problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.

  • Personality Tests: These tests help employers understand your interpersonal skills and how well you might fit into the company culture.

  • Diploma/Certification Exams: If you pursue a diploma in office management or a related field, you'll need to pass the exams associated with that course.

  • Job-Specific Assessments: Some companies might have specific assessments tailored to the receptionist role, evaluating skills like multitasking and handling phone calls.

To prepare, focus on improving your typing speed, computer skills, and communication abilities. Practice common interview questions and be ready to demonstrate your organizational skills.

Exam NameExam Date
Related Courses
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Stable job with regular hours.
  2. Opportunity to develop communication skills.
  3. Entry-level position with growth potential.
  4. Exposure to various aspects of the business.
  5. Networking opportunities with colleagues and clients.
  6. Relatively low educational requirements.
  7. Develop strong organizational abilities.
  8. Gain experience in customer service.
  9. Work in a comfortable office environment.
  10. Learn about different industries.

Cons

  1. Can be repetitive and monotonous.
  2. Relatively low starting salary.
  3. May involve handling difficult customers.
  4. Limited opportunities for rapid advancement.
  5. Requires sitting for extended periods.
  6. Stress from managing multiple tasks.
  7. Dealing with administrative tasks.
  8. May require working overtime.
  9. Responsibility for handling sensitive information.
  10. Can be a high-pressure environment.