What are the real expectations of a receptionist in 2025?
Today’s business environment demands more than a friendly face at the front desk. Receptionists are no longer seen as just gatekeepers or switchboard operators. They are now viewed as critical contributors to the professionalism, efficiency, and cultural tone of a workplace.
Whether you’re hiring for your front-of-house team or planning a career as a receptionist, understanding how the role has evolved is key. The modern receptionist is expected to manage multiple priorities, communicate with clarity, and bring a high level of organisation to every interaction.
So, what should you expect from a receptionist in 2025? Let’s explore.
The Evolving Role of a Receptionist
The role of a receptionist is dynamic, client-facing, and crucial to first impressions. Businesses now expect receptionists to contribute far beyond basic administrative support.
Key Receptionist Tasks:
- Welcoming visitors and clients professionally
- Managing multi-line phone systems and redirecting enquiries
- Maintaining visitor logs and managing access
- Coordinating meeting rooms and scheduling appointments
- Supporting events, catering and supplier coordination
- Assisting with data entry, mail distribution and internal communication
These receptionist tasks form the foundation of a well-run office. Increasingly, firms are also looking at personality, presentation, and flexibility as core elements of success.
Receptionist Skills That Matter in 2025
Employers are raising the bar on what they expect from front-of-house professionals. Beyond a polished appearance and polite manner, today’s receptionist needs to demonstrate proactive problem-solving, attention to detail and strong organisational capabilities.
Essential Front Desk Receptionist Skills:
- Clear, warm, and professional communication across all channels
- Excellent time management skills to balance calls, walk-ins and admin
- Soft skills such as empathy, adaptability, and emotional intelligence
- Confidence using booking systems, CRM platforms and digital calendars
- Professional discretion when handling sensitive information
These are no longer just good skills to have. They are essential to succeed and stand out in a modern front-of-house role, where front desk receptionist skills are a direct reflection of brand quality and team professionalism.
Receptionist Expectations Are Shifting
Recent client feedback shows a significant shift in what employers are looking for. They now expect receptionists to:
- Represent the brand with confidence and clarity
- Adapt to changing demands with minimal direction
- Take ownership of the reception function
- Contribute positively to team morale and workplace culture
- Be resourceful during busy periods or when supporting broader admin needs
The front desk is no longer a passive position. It requires energy, coordination, and a readiness to deliver a seamless experience for clients, staff and suppliers alike. Employers increasingly value receptionist soft skills as much as technical ability.
Two Types of Receptionists Employers Are Looking For
Through our work with clients, we often see two distinct types of receptionists being requested:
- The Career Receptionist – Someone who views reception as their long-term profession. They bring deep experience, pride in their role, and consistency that businesses value for creating a polished, reliable front-of-house presence.
- The Growth Receptionist – Often earlier in their career, they see reception as a valuable entry point into an organisation. They bring energy, ambition, and a willingness to learn, often moving into broader administration, HR, or office management roles over time.
Both play an important role, depending on the needs of the business. Whether you want someone who will make reception their craft, or someone who can grow and evolve with your organisation, being clear on which type of receptionist you need will ensure a better match.
What Makes a Standout Receptionist Today
Hiring managers across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane often tell us the best receptionists bring more than a smile. They bring structure, initiative and reliability.
Top Attributes of a Standout Receptionist:
- Takes initiative in slower periods to stay productive
- Anticipates needs before they become urgent
- Aligns with the business’s tone and brand identity
- Collaborates well with PAs, EAs, and Office Managers
- Acts as a culture ambassador, greeting every guest like a VIP
These qualities are particularly valued in industries where professionalism and discretion are essential, such as legal, finance, consulting and premium services.
Hiring a Receptionist? Look Beyond the Basics
If your organisation is ready to hire or elevate your front-of-house presence, consider working with a recruitment partner who understands what makes a receptionist truly exceptional.
At MJD Recruitment, we:
- Take time to understand your team dynamic and brand expectations
- Screen candidates for both technical strengths and behavioural fit
- Share insights on salary expectations and role design
- Provide shortlists within 24 to 48 hours through our active network of qualified professionals
Final Thoughts
Today’s receptionist is more than a welcoming face — they influence professionalism, culture, and the flow of your business. Whether you need a career receptionist for consistency or a growth receptionist to evolve with your team, the key is finding someone who doesn’t just fit the role, but elevates it.
At MJD Recruitment, that’s exactly what we do.
📞 To speak with a specialist about your front desk hiring needs or to explore reception roles in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, contact MJD Recruitment today.
Call 1300 251 905 or get in touch with our team to start your search.
