Can a 19-Year-Old Thrive as a Receptionist?

The short answer is yes, provided the individual possesses the necessary skills and is prepared to navigate the complexities of the job. The role of a receptionist involves a wide range of duties and responsibilities, but age alone should not be a determining factor.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Being a receptionist demands certain skills and qualifications. According to my experience, a 19-year-old can indeed be a competent receptionist if they have the following:

Basic Skills: Taking notes, recording phone conversations accurately, filtering visitors, performing word processing, and operating computer equipment. Soft Skills: Having a pleasant voice, being organized, and capable of multitasking. Additionally, they should know how to communicate effectively with people and handle phone calls. Technical Knowledge: Basic computer skills, including file management, scanning, and printing.

Job Description

The specific duties and responsibilities of a receptionist can vary depending on the organization. In my current workplace, a receptionist handles the following tasks:

Package Management: Accepting and handing out packages to visitors. Waiting Area Management: Monitoring individuals waiting in the lobby for their appointments or interviews. Phone Support: Answering four main phone lines, ensures smooth internal communication within the building. Administrative Tasks: Assuming that the building has a separate mail room, the receptionist is not responsible for maintenance duties or providing refreshments to waiting guests.

Why Might Someone Fail at This Job?

Not everyone is cut out for a receptionist role, and certain factors can lead to failure. Here are some potential pitfalls:

Nasty Personality: Negative attitudes towards clients, even if they are high-ranking figures from major companies, can quickly undermine the receptionist’s career. Lifestyle Issues: Excessive substance use or chronic tardiness can jeopardize a receptionist’s performance. Being alert and ready to work early and late shifts is crucial. Inability to Manage Time and Stress: Handling multiple tasks and adapting to variable workloads is essential. Receptionists should remain calm under pressure and know when to request assistance. Maintaining a neat and professional appearance is expected, even if the job is in a creative industry. Being reliable and independent is paramount. The receptionist should be able to function without constant supervision. Showing up late, even for legitimate reasons, is not acceptable and can lead to termination of employment.

Conclusion

While age can be a factor in certain roles, a 19-year-old can indeed be a successful receptionist with the right skills and a mature attitude. Balancing the demands of the job with personal responsibilities and maintaining professionalism are key.