Receptionist Interview Questions with Sample Answers

The short answer: receptionist interviews focus on how you present yourself, speak on the phone, handle visitors and stay organised. Prepare answers about managing many tasks at once, dealing with a difficult visitor, and your computer skills — and remember the interview itself is a test of your manners.

What does a receptionist do?

• Greets visitors and guides them to the right person
• Answers and transfers phone calls, and takes messages
• Manages appointments, a visitor register and courier entries
• Handles basic email, data entry and filing
• Keeps the front desk tidy and professional

Common interview questions

1. Why do you want to be a receptionist?

Sample: "I enjoy meeting people and keeping things organised. A receptionist sets the first impression of a company, and I want to make that impression a good one."

2. How would you handle a busy moment with a ringing phone and a visitor waiting?

Sample: "I would greet the visitor with a smile and a quick 'I will be with you in a moment', answer the call and take a message or transfer it, then give the visitor my full attention."

3. How do you deal with a rude or impatient visitor?

Sample: "I stay calm and polite, listen to what they need, and help as quickly as possible. If it is outside my role, I call the right person rather than making promises."

4. How do you answer a business phone call?

Sample: "Good morning, City Care Clinic, this is Neha speaking. How may I help you?" Then listen, note the caller's name and number, and confirm the message back.

5. What computer skills do you have?

Mention MS Word, Excel, email, typing speed and any booking or billing software you have used.

6. How do you keep information confidential?

Sample: "I do not discuss visitors, patients or company details with anyone who does not need to know, and I keep registers and files secure."

7. Where do you see yourself in a few years?

Sample: "I would like to grow into an office administrator or front office executive role and handle more responsibility."

The practical test

Some employers ask you to answer a pretend call, write a short email or enter visitor details in Excel. Practise these at home so they feel easy.

First impression checklist

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early
• Neat, formal clothes — see what to wear for an interview
• Greet the receptionist or guard politely — they may be asked about you
• Sit straight, make eye contact and smile
• Switch your phone to silent

Skills that help you get hired

Find openings: receptionist and front office jobs on JobZeno. Also read how to introduce yourself.

Frequently asked questions