Receptionists are responsible for greeting and welcoming office visitors and ensuring they have everything they need while they wait. Part of welcoming visitors is making sure visitors have the sense that the person they’re waiting for is aware of their arrival, even if there’s a delay. Receptionists will have to give directions around the office, keep a directory of the people in the office, and maintain a good grasp of that directory.

Receptionists maintain visitor logs and issue welcome badges, often keeping the office safe by keeping these logs. An important part of office security is simply knowing who comes in and out. Receptionists are the keepers of this information. Receptionists keep the reception area clean and stocked with whatever welcome items, like coffee, water and other treats. Receptionists will also coordinate between different teams in the organization and mitigate problems that arise. They aren’t just the front line for the office -- they’re often the go-between because they hold everyone’s schedule in hand. Receptionists will often be the reason teams achieve goals because they accurately and promptly relay information between teams, making important connections amongst staff members.