cover letters for receptionist resume

15 Receptionist Cover Letters That Will Get Hired (NOW)

Are you are looking to write a cover letter for Receptionist jobs that will impress recruiters and get you noticed by hiring managers? You need one to apply for a job, but you don’t know what to say.

A job search can be overwhelming, and if you are like most people, your resume will be your first point of contact with potential employers. However, there is one more step to consider – the cover letter. The cover letter provides an opportunity for candidates to introduce themselves in a way that is personal and professional at the same time. A well-written cover letter can set you apart from other applicants by highlighting your skills in relation to the company’s needs.

Here are 15 amazing Receptionist cover letters that are professionally written and will help you stand out and get that job!

Receptionist Cover Letters

Each cover letter is written with a different focus. Review all of them and pick the ones that apply to your situation. Take inspiration from multiple samples and combine them to craft your unique cover letter.

Receptionist Sample 1

Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to express my interest in being considered for the position of Receptionist at your company. I am proficient in customer service, data entry, and office functions. My time management skills are excellent and I have an eye for detail. I would be a valuable addition to your team. Thank you for considering my resume and cover letter in your search for a receptionist position. Best Regards, Jenny Jones

Receptionist Sample 2

I am excited to apply for the Receptionist position with your company. I have a degree in Business Administration and am very focused on making sure my clients are satisfied. I am experienced in customer service and public relations, and feel I would be a great fit for this position.

Thank you, Olivia S

Receptionist Sample 3

What skills and qualities do you possess that make you a strong candidate for this position?

A certified Receptionist is the first person seen when people enter the company. This is a position that needs someone who is friendly, outgoing, and professional. I have had years of experience working in a customer service/office setting with a variety of people from all walks of life. I am very familiar with multi-tasking and am confident in my ability to assist others while keeping an upbeat attitude. In addition, I excel at balancing your workload so the responsibilities are manageable while still remaining efficient. I have excellent time management skills which includes being able to prioritize tasks on-the-spot if needed so no task goes unattended to for too long

Receptionist Sample 4

Dear Sir or Madam,

As a receptionist with two years of experience, I would like to submit my application. I have excellent interpersonal skills and am proficient in Microsoft Office software. Strong customer service skills are essential for this position. I am currently available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Receptionist Sample 5

Hi,   I am looking for a job in hospitality. I have been a receptionist for 2 years. I have excellent customer service skills and am able to multitask effectively. My experience includes greeting customers, answering phones, taking messages, scheduling appointments and completing registration forms. As you can see from my resume, I have extensive experience that makes me the perfect candidate for this position! Thank you very much for considering me!

Receptionist Sample 6

This is a professional cover letter for the Receptionist position at your company.

I am interested in this receptionist position at ___________ because I have extensive experience in customer service and administrative duties, with an emphasis on excellent communication skills. I am able to work quickly, efficiently, and accurately while maintaining a professional demeanor. I would be so appreciative if you would consider my qualifications for this opportunity! Thank you so much.

Receptionist Sample 7

I am a responsible and detail-oriented professional with over six years of experience in administrative duties. I am confident that I possess the skills and qualities necessary to fill the position of Receptionist at your company.

Please consider me for this position and I will contact you to arrange an interview at your convenience.

Receptionist Sample 8

Dear _______,

I am writing in response to your recent advertisement for a Receptionist. I have over 10 years of experience supporting staff members with answering phones, greeting visitors, handling orders and shipping materials. My skills include proficiency with Microsoft Office software suite, customer service orientation and excellent communication skills. I am an attentive listener who is committed to providing the best service possible to your clients while maintaining a positive attitude.

Thank you for your consideration of me as a potential candidate for this opportunity; please contact me at (555) 555-5555 or email at [email protected] if you would like to schedule an interview. Thank you!

Receptionist Sample 9

Dear Sir or Madam, Neatly groomed, professional appearance with a warm smile and customer service focused. I am looking for a receptionist job due to my experience in this field. I have had over 10 years of customer service experience at the front desk. My work ethic is strong and my ability to multitask is confident. I feel that my skills are an excellent match for your receptionist position and I am confident that you will not be disappointed with my performance. Yours Truly, (your name)

Receptionist Sample 10

Dear Hiring Manager,

My name is _________ and I am applying for the Receptionist position. I have four years of experience in customer service and have excellent phone skills. I understand how to efficiently operate office equipment, including fax machines, photocopiers, scanners, etc. As a Receptionist at your company, I would be able to answer phones while greeting guests with a smile. Please contact me if you are interested in my qualifications for this position or if you would like to schedule an interview. Thank you for your consideration!

Sincerely, _______

Receptionist Sample 11

I am writing to apply for the receptionist position and I believe that my skills and qualifications make me a perfect fit. I have excellent customer service skills, five years experience in the field, and an ability to multitask. I am also proficient in word processing programs such as MS Word and using various office equipment like photocopy machines, faxes, and printers.

I would appreciate your time reviewing my resume for this position.

Receptionist Sample 12

Dear Jerome, I am looking for a new Receptionist position with your company. I have worked in the same industry for over 10 years where I have completed various duties in customer service, human resources and project management. My skills include excellent communication skills, time management, computer literacy and excellent organization. This position will allow me to use all of my abilities to be successful in meeting the needs of both my employer and customers. I hope you will consider me for this position!

Receptionist Sample 13

I am writing to apply for the Receptionist position at your company. I am interested in this job because I am passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people on a daily basis. My previous experience includes 5 years of receptionist work with clients such as ____. These experiences have provided me with excellent communication skills that are needed to complete the daily tasks of a receptionist, while continuing to offer exceptional customer service.

Receptionist Sample 14

Jennifer Jones 11 Main Street, Apt. 100 Atlanta, GA 75201 555-555-5555 [email protected]     Date: March 30th 2012. To Whom It May Concern: Hello, my name is Jennifer Jones and I am a qualified Receptionist with over four years of experience in the field. I have excellent customer service skills and I am well versed in Microsoft Office Programs such as Word, Excel and Outlook as well as the internet applications Google Earth and Social Media Networks Facebook and YouTube. If you would like to ask any questions about me or my qualifications please do not hesitate to contact me at 555-555-5555 or at jennifer

Receptionist Sample 15

My name is Joe.

I am interested in the receptionist position posted on your website. I have been a receptionist with XXXX, LLC for X years and I would love the opportunity to work with you. I am hard-working, reliable, punctual and personable with a positive attitude who enjoys working in a fast paced environment. I have excellent customer service skills and can multi-task efficiently while maintaining a calm demeanor in stressful situations. Contact me to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience so that we may discuss how my experience can help you grow your company!

Recruiters and hiring managers receive hundreds of applications for each job opening.

Use the above professionally written Receptionist cover letter samples to learn how to write a cover letter that will catch their attention and customize it for your specific situation.

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Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Get picked for interviews more easily and show recruiters just what you can bring to the job with an optimized Receptionist cover letter. Find out how now with expert examples and professional tips.

Resume and Cover Letter Experts

Receptionist Cover Letter

Do you feel like you’re a skilled Receptionist but having trouble landing interviews?

Whether you’re an entry-level Receptionist or someone who has plenty of experience , a poorly crafted application will have employers leaving you on hold. 

Don’t worry though, we’ve got the answer. 

Something to give you a major boost during the application process is a cover letter. If you’re wondering, it is proven that writing one is worth it .  

Crafting a cover letter as a Receptionist means more than just listing your previous job duties . It’s about showcasing your specific skills and knowledge that can make you an asset to a specific company in their sector. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of writing a Receptionist cover letter that highlights your unique qualifications. We’ll cover:

• Which certifications and training to showcase depending on the company’s sector
• Software skills to highlight 
• Keywords that will grab a hiring manager’s attention
• Equipment that any Receptionist should list in their letter

To make the process even easier, ensure that your resume is complete. Having all your qualifications in one place will make it simpler to draft your letter. 

Take advantage of our resume builder with AI-intuitive suggestions , to quickly finish or optimize your application.

Once you have your resume, and review the tips below, you’ll be ready to make an attention-grabbing cover letter.

Receptionist Cover Letter Sample

The first step in the process of crafting your letter is to review a sample. An example can give you an idea of what to include and how it should be formatted. 

Also, using our easy-to-use cover letter builder can give you ideas on how to include your information if you get stuck. 

Review the example below to get a preview of how your letter should look.

[Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, Zip]

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am excited to apply for the Receptionist role at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. My background as a Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) with expertise in front desk operations positions me as an ideal candidate to enhance the productivity and customer service excellence at [Company Name].

At [Previous Company], I effectively managed a multi-line phone system and streamlined appointment scheduling using tools like Microsoft Bookings. My technical proficiency extends to Microsoft Office Suite and CRM platforms such as Salesforce, ensuring meticulous management of customer interactions and office tasks.

My hands-on experience with office equipment, including printers, scanners, and security systems, complements my software skills, allowing me to support a seamless operational flow. I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]’s commitment to [something specific about the company or its values] and am eager to contribute to your team’s success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my fit for the Receptionist position with you.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

Show Off Your Different Administrative Certifications

For any applicant, certifications can prove your dedication to getting better as an employee and that you have the expertise to do a great job. 

When crafting your cover letter, highlighting these certifications can increase your credibility . Let’s explore some certifications you might include:

• Customer service training : Certifications in customer service show you know how to create a positive visitor experience.
• Technical certifications : Proficiency in specific software is often crucial for a receptionist. Certifications in Microsoft Office Suite, CRM software, or other relevant tools can set you apart.
• Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) : This is a prestigious certification that showcases a high level of administrative expertise.

Incorporating these certifications into your cover letter can be straightforward and impactful. 

Here’s a sample text:

As a Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) with additional certification in advanced customer service techniques, I bring a proven track record of efficient office management and exemplary visitor service. These certifications have equipped me with the skills necessary to enhance the operational flow and client satisfaction at XYZ Company.

Include a Certification for the Company’s Sector

By mentioning industry-specific training, it’s more likely that a hiring manager will feel that you can step in right away and be successful.

You can take a training course or complete a certification in one of these sectors and increase your odds of being hired by a relevant company.

• Healthcare 
• Hospitality 
• Educational Administration

Keywords to Include in Your Receptionist Cover Letter

If you weren’t aware of the following stat, it’s an important one . Up to 99% of Fortune 500 companies use the ATS. 

The ATS, or Applicant Tracking System, scans your application to find relevant keywords to quickly judge if you’re qualified for the next step in the hiring process. 

That means you’ll need the right keywords in your letter to give yourself the best chance of landing an interview .

Here are some you should have in your letter:

• Client relations
• Appointment coordination
• Reception area management
• Visitor screening
• Call handling
• Office supply inventory
• Document preparation
• Meeting room setup
• Information dissemination
• Service-oriented

By using these keywords in your cover letter, it will be more likely to be selected by the ATS . That makes these words essential for both entry-level and experienced applicants.

Software Skills to Mention in Your Cover Letter

Receptionists should be able to use computers to schedule, keep track of clients, and more.

That’s why it’s essential to highlight your software skills. 

Here are some key types of software that receptionists should be familiar with and list in their cover letters:

• Scheduling software : Familiarity with scheduling tools such as Calendly and Microsoft Bookings is essential for coordinating appointments and meetings seamlessly.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software : Experience with CRM systems like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zoho CRM is valuable for managing customer information and interactions effectively.
• Database management : Skills in database software are essential for accurately entering, searching, and updating records, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.

In your cover letter, you might write:

In my previous role, I leveraged my expertise in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software to enhance our office’s productivity. My ability to efficiently manage our client database and coordinate schedules across multiple platforms like Outlook and Calendly was instrumental in improving our team’s communication and daily operations.

Listing these in your letter is especially useful if you’re changing careers and want to add some transferable skills .

If you’re an entry-level applicant, mentioning your software skills will be a huge boost.

Highlight Your Knowledge of Receptionist Equipment

Apart from software, a hiring manager will want to know that you don’t need any practice with typical office equipment.

Demonstrating your hands-on knowledge of the physical tools in an office setting can enhance your appeal to potential employers . 

Here are some equipment you should discuss your experience with:

• Multi-line phone systems
• Office security systems
• Point of Sale (POS) systems
• Postage meters
• Printers and copiers
• Fax machines

Take a look at how you can add this information to your letter:

My familiarity with advanced multi-line phone systems and office equipment, ranging from modern printers and scanners to efficient postage meter operation, has been pivotal in maintaining the smooth operation of my previous workplaces. I am also well-versed in the use of office security systems, ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for both staff and visitors.

Writing a cover letter isn’t always the most interesting part of the hiring process, but it can show a hiring manager that you’re motivated and ready to improve the company.

You’ll be able to show off your Receptionist qualifications if you remember to:

• Mention relevant administrative certifications like CAP or sector-specific training
• Include keywords related to receptionist duties
• Discuss your familiarity with essential software and office equipment

It’s also essential to know exactly how to write a letter by keeping it concise, and easy to read . If you follow this advice, you’ll be landing an interview in no time.

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Receptionist Cover Letter Example

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You should start your Receptionist cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly, if possible. If you don't know their name, use a professional greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager". Then, introduce yourself and express your interest in the receptionist position. Mention where you found the job posting and why you're interested in the role. For example, "I was excited to see your job posting for a Receptionist on your company website. With my 3 years of experience in customer service and administrative tasks, I am confident I can contribute positively to your team." This introduction is professional, direct, and shows your enthusiasm for the role.

The best way for Receptionists to end a cover letter is by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity, reiterating their interest in the position, and inviting the employer to take the next step. For example, "I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique skills and experience to your team and am confident that I would make a valuable addition to your company. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further. Thank you for considering my application." This ending is effective as it shows eagerness, confidence, and professionalism. It also encourages the employer to move forward with the hiring process. Remember to end with a formal closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best Regards," followed by your name.

Receptionists should include several key elements in their cover letter. 1. Contact Information: At the top of the cover letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. 2. Salutation: Address the hiring manager by name if it's known. If not, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." 3. Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting. 4. Relevant Skills and Experience: Highlight your skills and experiences that are relevant to the receptionist position. This could include customer service skills, organizational skills, proficiency in specific software, or experience handling administrative tasks. 5. Achievements: If you have any achievements or accomplishments from previous roles that are relevant, include them. This could be something like improving a filing system or implementing a new process that increased efficiency. 6. Personal Qualities: Receptionists are often the first point of contact in an organization, so it's important to highlight qualities like friendliness, professionalism, and excellent communication skills. 7. Knowledge about the Company: Show that you've done your research and understand what the company does. This shows your interest in the role and the company. 8. Closing: In your closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to contribute to the company. Thank the hiring manager for considering your application. 9. Signature: End with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best Regards," followed by your name. Remember, your cover letter should complement your resume, not duplicate it. It's your chance to tell a story about your experiences and skills, and to show the hiring manager why you're the best fit for the role.

Related Cover Letters for Receptionist

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Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Kick-start your career and find inspiration for your new cover letter with our free, carefully composed Receptionist cover letter example. Make a copy of this cover letter example free of charge or edit it directly using our intuitive cover letter maker.

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Receptionist Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Robert gostomski.

Dear Hiring Managers,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Receptionist position at Harter Group, Inc. in Boca Raton, FL. My extensive office administration experience and skill set align well with the qualifications outlined in the job posting on LinkedIn.com. I am confident that my background makes me a valuable asset to your team and organization.

Previously, I worked as a Receptionist at Huron Law Group, Inc. for two years. In this role, I successfully managed a variety of administrative tasks including answering phones, organizing the office calendar, scheduling appointments, greeting clients, arranging travel, and overseeing office supplies. I consistently completed projects on time and was recognized with the Employee of the Month Award for my dedication to meeting and exceeding business objectives.

I hold a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Ball State University, where I graduated in the top 10% of my class with a GPA of 3.98. Additionally, I am a native Polish speaker with proficiency in English and basic knowledge of French. I am adept at using industry software such as Bitrix24, LibreOffice, Slack, and Trello, and possess strong organizational skills, professionalism, work ethic, and the ability to excel both independently and as part of a team.

I have attached my resume for your review. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of Harter Group, Inc.

Sincerely, Robert Gostomski

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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Receptionist Resume Sample for 2024 [Job Description, Skills & Tips]

A receptionist does much more than welcome, greet, and direct a company’s guests or clients. 

The job includes maintaining the security and telecommunications systems, providing information to customers by answering or redirecting their inquiries, and offering administrative support within the company, among others. 

As such, it’s not surprising at all if you’re stuck trying to put all that effectively on your receptionist resume. 

Fortunately, though, with the right guidance, writing an impactful receptionist resume can be easy, and we’re here to help!

Read our article to learn all you need to know about writing a receptionist resume! Here’s exactly what we’ll cover: 

• Receptionist Resume Example (Better Than 9 Out of 10 Examples)

8-Step Guide to Write Your Receptionist Resume

• 20+ In-Demand Skills to Put on Your Receptionist Resume

So let’s get to it! 

Receptionist Resume Example (to Inspire You)

Not sure where to start with your resume? Reviewing a receptionist resume example is a good start!

The resume example above does everything right, including: 

• Follows the chronological format. As the most popular format among recruiters worldwide, the chronological resume format is the way to go.
• Has a memorable resume profile. To show the recruiter they’re relevant as an applicant, the candidate has written a captivating resume summary. 
• Includes professional contact details. In addition to the must-have contact details, the receptionist resume example above also lists the applicant’s LinkedIn and Skype handles.
• Lists quantifiable achievements. The candidate has built a work experience section that focuses on achievements to stand out from other applicants. 
• Has a short education section. With plenty of work experience to show for, the receptionist resume example keeps their education section short. 
• Includes relevant skills. The candidate doesn’t list every skill under the sun, but only the ones that are relevant to the position. 
• Uses optional resume sections the right way. By adding their certificates and languages, the candidate has even better chances at standing out from the competition.
• Is based on a well-designed resume template . To avoid the hassle of building their resume from scratch, the receptionist resume example above was built using a plug-and-play template.   

Inspired by the receptionist resume example above?

Now it’s time to write yours! Below, we’ll walk you through the 8 essential steps for creating an effective receptionist resume, starting with:

#1. Choose the Right Format and Layout

When it comes to resumes, the structure is everything. 

You can be an amazing professional and you still won’t stand much chance if:

• Your resume sections are all out of order.
• Your resume is very hard to follow because of a messy structure.
• The resume looks unprofessional because you picked the wrong font . 

So, before you can start filling out the contents of your receptionist resume, you’ve got to first make sure its format and layout are just right.

When it comes to your resume format, the choice is quite easy. 

Out of the three resume formats ( chronological , functional (also known as skills-based), and combination ) you should go for the chronological resume format . It’s the most popular among recruiters everywhere in the world and successfully highlights your skills and achievements by putting your most recent work experience first. 

Here’s what it looks like: 

Now, when it comes to the layout, you’ll have to keep a few more things in mind:

• Keep your resume short. Unless you have 10+ years of experience, a 1-page resume is your best bet that recruiters will go through your entire resume. After all, they receive hundreds of applications daily—they don’t have time to read your resume if it’s the same length as a short novella. 
• Picking the right font size and style. Go for 11-12 pt font size for the body of your text and 13-14 pts for the section headers. As for the style, we recommend using a font that’s casual but professional, such as Ubuntu or Roboto. 
• Using section headers. Section headers are a good way to clearly separate your resume’s sections. 
• Saving your resume as a PDF file. Unless otherwise instructed in the job description, save your resume as a PDF . That way, you can be sure it will open as you intended it despite the device or OS that opens it. 

Or Skip Formatting and Layout Altogether By Using a Resume Template!

Imagine this:

You spend hours and hours tweaking your resume layout, only for it to look like a generic, black-and-white resume.

Not a good feeling, right?

Want to skip ahead of all the formatting hassle and jump right into filling in your contents? AND come out with a visually-appealing, short-n-snappy resume, all at the same time?

All you have to do is pick one of Novorésumé’s free, plug-and-play templates ! 

Our resume templates were made in collaboration with professional recruiters, which means they are easy to read and scan (and they’re ATS-friendly to boot!). 

And the best part? The templates look absolutely gorgeous (especially when compared to a standard black-and-white resume ): 

#2. Add More Than Your Traditional Contact Details 

The contact information section is the most straightforward part of writing a resume. 

Basically, all you have to do is list the following details:

• Professional title. 
• Phone number.
• Location (city and state/country).

Here’s how all that looks like on a receptionist resume: 

Receptionist

123-123-333

[email protected]

Scranton, PA

If you want to add some flavor to this section and you’re active on LinkedIn, you can include your profile’s URL link too. 

#3. Write a Compelling Resume Summary Summary/Objective

Put simply, your resume profile is a summary of you as a professional. 

The 2-3 sentence short paragraph goes at the top of your resume and aims to tell recruiters just enough to convince them to deep-dive into the rest of your resume.

Depending on your work experience level, you can write a resume profile as:

• A resume summary . If you are experienced in the field use a resume summary to sum up your title and years of experience, as well as your top skills and achievements.
• A resume objective . If you don’t have a lot to show for in terms of work experience, then you should go for a resume objective . To ace, it, mention any degree names or experience related to the field, the skills that you can offer the company, and your interest in working there. 

Here’s what a receptionist resume summary looks like:

Detail-oriented receptionist with 4 years of experience in customer service. Efficient in performing the administrative and front-desk tasks of large-scale offices. Fluent in Spanish and proficient in MS Office Suite. 

And here’s a receptionist resume objective:

Motivated communications graduate looking to apply their people and organizational skills as a receptionist at Company Z. Worked as Resident Assistant for 3 years and has hands-on experience on front desk duties, helping students solve problems, and dealing with administrational tasks.

#4. Make Your Work Experience Count 

Consider your work experience section as the backbone of your receptionist resume - it’s what recruiters will be checking to see whether you’ve got what it takes to excel at the job.  

To make this section count, first, make sure to format it the right way. Here’s what that involves: 

• Start with your current/most recent position and go backward in time. Keep your work entries relevant - the paper delivery job from your teens won’t help land you a receptionist job. 
• Begin each work entry with your professional title. Underneath, add the company's name and location, the period you worked there, and 3-5 of achievements and responsibilities in bullet points. 
• List fewer bullet points (1-2 for each work entry) as you go back in time. Your job from 10 years ago doesn’t need to be as comprehensively described as your last one.

After you’ve handled the formatting, you’ve got to make sure your professional experience shines through brighter than other candidates’. 

As hard as it may sound, we have some very effective tips to make that happen, including: 

• Focus on achievements over responsibilities whenever it’s possible. After all, recruiters know what the responsibilities of a receptionist are pretty well - it’s your achievements that can really help you stand out. 
• Quantify your achievements whenever you can. For example, instead of saying “handled incoming and outgoing calls effectively,” say “handled 100+ incoming and outgoing calls on a daily basis.”
• You can use the following formula to quantify your achievements : “accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z.” 

Here’s how a well-written work achievement would look like in a receptionist resume:

• Consulted regarding a redesign of the office scheduling system, increasing accuracy by 38%.
• Achieved 95% customer satisfaction score based on feedback forms.
• Handled successfully 100+ phone calls daily with no complaints during the last 2 years.

And here’s a less convincing achievement:

• Answered questions.
• Provided good customer service.
• Made phone calls.

The first example is achievement-oriented and the recruiter reading it knows how, exactly, you excelled at your last role.

The second example, though, is not as much. The recruiter knows that you worked as a receptionist… and that’s about it. They have no idea if you excelled at the role or not.

If you do have to list responsibilities and tasks on your Receptionist resume, make sure you’re using dynamic action words and strong verbs !

#5. Include Your Education 

The next step in creating your receptionist resume is to list your educational background.

Start by following this format:

• Add your latest and highest degree first. 
• Start off with the degree name, then the institution’s name, and the dates attended. 
• Don’t add your high-school education if you hold a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. 

Here’s how the education section should look like in a receptionist resume:

BA in Communication 

Penn State University, PA

Now, if you don’t have any work experience at all, you can use your educational history to help you stand out.

In such a case, you can make this section more elaborate by mentioning:

• Academic merits and achievements
• Relevant coursework taken
• Extracurricular activities  

BA in World Literature

• Graduated Summa Cum Laude
• Graduated first of the class in Communications
• Resident Advisor for 3 years

#6. Include Industry-Related Skills

You can definitely tell a good receptionist by the skills they possess. 

And that’s exactly why the skills section is another receptionist resume must-have. 

Of course, this includes a balance between soft skills (e.g. communication skills , time-management, multi-tasking), and hard skills (e.g. Microsoft Office, Supply Management). 

Keep in mind, however, that the key here is to list the right skills and not every single skill that you possess.

Sure, knowing Adobe Illustrator is great, but it won’t help much with your job as a receptionist. 

So, first, go through our list below and include the must-have receptionist skills in your resume (the ones that you do possess, that is).

Then, go through the job ad you’re applying for and see if you missed an important skill or two. Make sure that the skills you’ve listed match the ones required for the role (as long as you actually possess them, of course).

20+ Receptionist Soft and Hard Skills to Put on a Receptionist Resume

Receptionist soft skills.

• Verbal and written communication
• Professionalism
• Customer focus
• Organization and planning
• Handling pressure and tolerating stress
• Attention to detail
• Reliability
• Multitasking
• Conflict resolution
• Problem-solving
• Prioritizing
• Time Management

Receptionist Hard Skills

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Administrative skills
• Supply management
• Typing skills (include WPM)
• Information management software
• Use of office equipment (fax machines, copiers, etc)
• Multi-line phone systems

#7. 5 Additional Sections to Take Advantage Of

At this stage, if your resume is already a full one-pager, you can just skip this section altogether.

If, on the other hand, you’ve got some space left (e.g. if you don’t have a lot of work experience), you can make use of these extra sections to give your receptionist resume an edge:

• Awards and certifications. Are you certified in office management? Do you have any awards for excellent performance in any of your previous roles? These are definitely things you should include in your receptionist resume. 
• Languages. Whatever your position might be, knowing an extra language or two can always come in handy.
• Volunteer experience. Volunteering can be a great way to show you also care about giving back to the community. If you’re a recent graduate, volunteering experience can also show employers that you’re familiar with hard work.
• Internships. Got any past internship experience? Make sure to include that in your resume, along with your main tasks and achievements there. 
• Hobbies and interests . Show the recruiter who you are outside of work. Who knows, maybe it’ll help you establish rapport with your interviewer!

The thing about extra sections is that they work on two levels: if you’re lacking work experience, they can definitely help you land an entry-level job, whereas if you’re experienced in the field, they can set you apart from other applicants with similar work experience and skills. 

Here’ an example of how extra sections should look in a receptionist resume:

Examples of Extra Sections

Certifications.

• Microsoft Office Specialist - Issued by Microsoft
• Certified Business Officer - Issued by the Management and Strategy Institute

Volunteer Experience

Front Desk Assistant  Scranton Community Center 06/2010 - 10/2012

• Helped staff with daily clerical tasks and activities
• Got hands-on experience doing administrational work
• French (Fluent)
• German (Intermediate)

#8. Don’t Forget to Include a Cover Letter

Including a cover letter with your resume is an inseparable part of sending a job application.

As such, it’s safe to assume that it should be just as good as your receptionist resume. 

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter shouldn’t just rephrase whatever you mentioned in your resume.

Rather, you should use it to:

• Summarize your most important skills, achievements, or experiences.
• Expand on any information you couldn’t talk about in detail in your receptionist resume.
• Mention what you know about the organization you’re applying for (and why you want to work there).

Here are our tips on creating a compelling receptionist cover letter:

• Tailor your cover letter to the specific job position you’re applying for. Instead of using a generic cover letter introduction, start your cover letter by introducing yourself and mentioning exactly why you want to work for that company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to talk about your skills, achievements, and qualifications in more detail. 
• Write a strong cover letter ending by including a strong call to action. 
• Make sure that your cover letter looks as compelling as your resume by using one of our cover letter templates . 
• Learn more about how to write a compelling cover letter by checking out our cover letter tips .

Not sure what a good receptionist cover letter looks like? Check out our top cover letter examples !

We hope you are feeling more confident about creating your receptionist resume and we are sure you will get hired in no time!

Related Resume Examples

• Customer Service Resume
• Event Planner Resume
• Bar and Restaurant Manager Resume
• Cashier Resume
• Waiter Resume
• Server Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume

Key Takeaways 

Follow the steps we outlined above, and you’ll have yourself a job-winning receptionist resume in no time!

Before you leave to work on your resume, though, let’s recap the key learning points we covered above:

• Use a resume summary or objective to summarize your experiences and show the recruiter that you’re relevant for the role.
• Mention achievements over responsibilities when possible. This helps show the recruiter how you excelled in your previous role.
• Quantify your work experiences by using the XYZ formula.
• Use some of the optional resume sections to help you stand out. This includes languages, hobbies, extracurricular activities, and more.

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