Receptionists are the initial contact for visitors and callers in an office setting. A receptionist is responsible for greeting visitors and answering questions. There are often administrative tasks involved in the position like typing, filing, handling mail (electronic and traditional), scheduling appointments, entering data, and booking travel. Most receptionists work full-time during traditional business hours. Ideal candidates have great people skills and enjoy working with people.
Salary According to Location
The average salary for a receptionist in the United States is roughly $30,000. There will be some variation in salary by geographic location, with average salaries in rural settings at around $24,000 while more urban areas will have average salaries approaching $36,000.
Salary According to Experience
Experience also impacts average salary, with entry-level receptionists receiving an average of $2,000 less per year than more experienced candidates. The position does not require a college degree, but a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) is preferred. Receptionists typically experience very moderate salary increases over time. While there is not a lot of salary advancement opportunity for receptionists, the career path includes the position of administrative assistant with an average salary of $35,000, office manager with an average salary of $41,000, and executive assistant with an average salary of $49,000.
Other Salary Influences
Company size and industry can also influence salaries. Healthcare and private business represent the majority of receptionist positions. Government, education, non-profit, and financial institutions make up a large percentage of the remaining receptionist positions.
Benefits
Receptionist positions typically receive a standard benefits package that includes Social Security, health insurance, vision insurance, dental insurance, disability, access to retirement plans, and paid time off. Benefit packages can add as much as 20% to the total compensation package of any position.
The average salary of a receptionist is roughly $30,000, but the position doesn’t require a college degree or previous work experience. There are advancement opportunities for receptionists, the work environment is professional, and the hours are typically Monday through Friday from 8 am until 5 pm. There are a lot of benefits to this career choice.
