Initial impressions count a lot in a corporate environment. Since receptionists or front office managers are the face of the company, their attitude and appearance can either impress or discourage visitors. Needless to say, a well-groomed receptionist is much in demand today.

From hotels to schools, every organisation wants to employ a receptionist who can enhance its public impression. “We, at the reception desk, always smile, remain calm and courteous as our attitude could be one of the deciding factors for the guest thinking of checking in,” says front office manager Neha Dhawan who has been working in the hospitality industry for the past two years.

An important aspect of a receptionist’s job is taking care of his or her appearance. Neha, for instance, makes sure that her hair is always neatly tied, nails evenly filed and business suit or saree well-pressed. “The make-up should not be flashy and loud,” says Neha. She learnt grooming tips while doing a course in aviation and hospitality from the Air Hostess Academy (AHA), Delhi, which have helped her at her workplace. “It is important for a front office employee to know corporate manners, have the right make-up and hairstyle, social etiquette and good communication skills,” says former model Meyhar Bhasin, who runs a grooming academy in New Delhi.

Being a receptionist is not an easy job. You are required to attend phone calls, answer queries and give undivided attention to customers. “I have to be alert all the nine hours that I am working. I am also required to multitask,” says Milli Singh, front office manager at a public relations firm in Delhi. Her job involves answering inquiries, directing visitors’ calls, taking incoming calls on multi-line telephones, setting appointments, filing records as well as e-mailing and faxing. Receptionists need to know MS Office and MS Excel.

A front office job is essentially for those who like to meet new people. “I enjoy meeting new people every day and the constant buzz at my desk,” says Milli. The starting salary for a fresher ranges from Rs 4,000 to Rs 8,000, depending on the profile of the employer.

There are very few courses for front office management. The New Delhi Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) offers undergraduate as well as postgraduate diplomas in the subject. According to George T.J., director, Institute of Office Management, YMCA, Delhi, their students get work in multinational companies, hotels and high commission offices. “We teach business correspondence, written English, communication and stenography skills. Personality development and grooming are also important aspects of the course,” he says. The fee for the one-year course is Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000.

The College of Vocational Studies, Delhi University, offers a bachelors course in office administration and secretarial practice. Vocational courses in office management and secretary practice are also offered at the Seth Anandaram Jaipuria College and Umesh Chandra College in Calcutta.