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Receptionist

In the construction industry, receptionists act as the first point of contact for clients, subcontractors and suppliers. As a receptionist, you’ll be at the forefront of the organisation, greeting guests and contractors, and responding to phone and email enquiries. You’ll need excellent people skills to provide high-quality customer service.

Average salary*

£19000

-

£25000

Typical hours per week

38-40

How to become a receptionist

There are several routes to becoming a receptionist. You can gain the qualifications you need by doing a college course or apprenticeship. You may also be able to apply directly to an employer if you have relevant skills. 

You should explore the options to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options will list qualification requirements many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.

College/training provider

Your local college or training provider may offer business administration courses. You could study for a Level 1 Certificate in Business and Administration. 

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

Traineeship

If you are aged between 16 and 24 you may be eligible for a traineeship. This is a short course (2 weeks - 6 months) which helps you to gain work experience in your chosen role.

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship in business administration is a good way to start on your career path into the construction industry. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

Work

If you have experience in customer service or administration you may be able to apply directly for receptionist vacancies. Many employers will then provide further training to help you in your career path. 

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a receptionist. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

Skills

Additional skills which may benefit anyone looking to become a receptionist include:

  • Excellent administration skills
  • Customer service skills
  • Confident using a computer
  • Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Sensitivity and understanding
  • Strong verbal communication skills.

Qualifications

To become a Receptionist, you could complete a:

  • Level 1 Certificate in Business and Administration (office administration).

You'll need: 

  • 2 or GCSEs at grades 3 - 1 or equivalent.

To become a Receptionist, you could complete a:

  • SCQF Level 5 Office Skills and Services.
  • PDA Office Administration SCQF Level 7

You'll need:

  • 2 or GCSEs at grades D - G or equivalent.

To become a Receptionist, you could complete a:

  • Level 1 Certificate in Business and Administration (office administration).

You'll need: 

  • 2 or GCSEs at grades 3 - 1 or equivalent.

What does a receptionist do?

As a receptionist you could be:

  • Greeting visitors and handling enquiries
  • Answering the telephone promptly and courteously
  • Responding to emails
  • Organising incoming and outgoing post and deliveries
  • Carrying out basic clerical duties
  • Updating database records
  • Booking transport and making travel arrangements
  • Maintaining the reception area
  • Managing the visitors book and distributing security passes
  • Providing refreshments
  • Organising meeting rooms
  • Dealing with payments and invoices

How much could you earn as a receptionist?

The expected salary for a receptionist varies as you become more experienced.

  • Newly trained receptionists can earn £19,000 - £20,000
  • Trained receptionists with some experience can earn £20,000 - £25,000
  • More senior receptionists may earn in excess of £25,000.*

Hours and salary depend on location, employer and any overtime you may do.

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources

Jobs

Check out the latest receptionist vacancies:

As these are external websites, the number of vacancies related to your preferred role may vary. New opportunities will be posted as they come up.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a senior administrator or a personal assistant (PA) to senior members of an organisation, and earn a higher salary.

If you find you prefer some parts of your job you could become an accounts assistant, HR advisor, or project coordinator.

Progression Opportunities

Explore the progression opportunities below

  • Current role Receptionist Be the first point of contact for clients, subcontractors & suppliers in your bu...
    Read more
  • Current role Administrator Administrators help control the systems & schedules that ensure construction pro...
    Read more
  • Current role Accounts assistant Learn more about the salary, qualifications, possible career progression & vario...
    Read more
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