London is one of the best places to work in UK because it offers plenty of employment opportunities with hourly wages higher than the average for the country. Finding a part time job as a hotel receptionist is London is relatively easy, but you might want to learn more about the nature of the work and the position requirements, before you begin your search for vacancies.
Before you read any further, it is worth taking into account the fact that not all receptionist positions in London are in luxury hotels in the centre of the city. You might find a job in a smaller hotel in one of the suburbs.
The work of receptionists is mostly administrative, but all tasks involve working with people. You will check in and check out guests. You will have to allocate rooms to the different guests. You might have to prepare bills and do basic cashier tasks. In some cases, you will be required to make reservations as well. You will do customer service as well. You will have to respond to inquiries and handle and resolve complaints. If you work in a larger hotel, you might be involved in arranging accommodation and programs for tourist groups or conference delegates. Work shifts are usually not flexible in terms of duration. In addition, you may be required to work until late at night.
In order to become a hotel receptionist, you will need at least GCSEs. Many hotels require applicants to have A levels as well. Higher education in hospitality management might also be required by top hotels. Apart from educational qualifications, you have to have excellent computer skills, communication skills and attention to detail.
The work of a hotel receptionist is not easy, but it is rewarding. It is relatively well paid as well. Provided that you have a genuine interest in the work and meet the minimum requirements, you can readily start your search for a part time employment position.
10 Qualities of an outstanding Hotel Front Desk Receptionist
- The Perfect front desk receptionist should have empathy. Without empathy it’s not possible to provide comfort to guests and understand their situation.
- The Hotel Receptionist should be a polyglot. There is nothing more frustrating than arriving tired at your hotel after a long flight and not being understood.
- Have the ability to anticipate the guests’ needs.
- Always smiling
- The front desk agent should be calm in the most volatile situations.
- Pro-activity and resourcefulness is what differentiate the great receptionist from the average one.
- The agent should poses knowledge about the area and attractions around the hotel.