Receptionist Job Description (UK template)
A receptionist is the first point of contact for visitors and callers, greeting people, answering phones and emails, managing bookings or appointments, handling post and supporting the office or practice with admin. The job needs a friendly, professional manner and good organisation. Below is a complete job description you can copy and adapt for an office, surgery, salon, hotel or other front desk.
Receptionist job description template
Job title
Receptionist
Job purpose
To provide a welcoming, professional first impression for visitors and callers and keep the front desk and related admin running smoothly.
Key responsibilities
- Greet visitors, sign them in and direct them to the right person
- Answer phone calls and emails, taking messages and passing them on promptly
- Manage appointments, bookings or meeting rooms using the booking system
- Handle incoming and outgoing post and deliveries
- Keep the reception area tidy and welcoming
- Carry out admin tasks such as data entry, filing and updating records
- Process payments where needed and follow cash handling procedures
- Follow security, fire safety and data protection procedures, including visitor logs
Essential skills and experience
- Friendly, professional and calm under pressure
- Clear spoken and written English and a good phone manner
- Organised, with good attention to detail
- Confident using email, calendars and basic office software
Desirable
- Previous reception, customer service or admin experience
- Experience with booking or practice management systems
- Knowledge of the sector, for example healthcare, legal or hospitality
Requirements
- Right to work in the UK
- DBS check for receptionists in healthcare, schools or care settings
Hours
Usually office hours, such as 8.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, with early or late shifts in GP surgeries, hotels and salons. Part-time and job-share roles are common.
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Receptionist pay in the UK
Receptionist pay in the UK typically ranges from about £25,000 to £29,000 a year for full-time roles outside London, and more in London and corporate settings. Part-time and entry-level roles are often paid hourly from the National Living Wage (£12.71 an hour from April 2026).
Pay ranges checked November 2026. They are typical ranges, not official figures: check local adverts before setting your rate.
Career progression
Receptionist, then senior receptionist, office administrator, office manager or practice manager. In hotels, front-of-house roles can lead to front office manager.
Tips for writing your receptionist advert
- Name the systems the receptionist will use, such as a booking tool or practice management software.
- State the hours precisely, including any early starts, late finishes or Saturdays.
- Describe the visitors they will deal with: clients, patients, guests or contractors.
- Include the salary or hourly rate.
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Try it freeFrequently asked questions
What are the main duties of a receptionist?
Greeting visitors, answering calls and emails, managing appointments or bookings, handling post and doing general admin to support the team.
What skills does a receptionist need?
Communication, customer service, organisation, a professional phone manner and confidence with basic office software and booking systems.
Do receptionists need qualifications?
Usually not. Employers look for a friendly manner, good English and some customer service or admin experience. Some sectors prefer GCSE English and maths.
How much does a receptionist earn in the UK?
Typically around £25,000 to £29,000 a year full time outside London, more in London. Hourly roles start from the National Living Wage.