The benefits of being a medical receptionist
1. Making a difference
First and foremost, by being at the front of the company you can make a real impact. You’re the first face that’s seen when any person walks through the door. From reassuring a nervous patient to brightening the day of a consultant, you can alleviate worries and ensure that everyone who walks in has a positive experience. You are the welcoming and approachable face of the organisation who keeps things running smoothly.
As well as making a difference to those around you, the diversity of people you meet every day can make the biggest difference in your life. Working in a role such as a medical receptionist means that every day you meet people from all walks of life. Some patients will be friendly, and others not so much. There is nothing like this role to get you out of your comfort zone and develop your social skills.
2. The challenge
Receptionist roles can be high-pressure, and you are at the centre of everything. Medical receptionists are responsible for ensuring that people are in the right place at the right time. One minute you will be going about your daily duties, and the next you will be solving problems and keeping everything ticking over. This role requires flexibility and the ability to keep calm under pressure. It will be challenging, but what it will also mean is that you’ll become the powerhouse of the organisation. You will gain an expert knowledge of how each department runs – something which not many employees possess.
Working within a healthcare setting can create a number of challenges which other receptionist roles just would not come across. In a medical environment, you will often see the worst of human vulnerability. This can be tough, and it can be demanding dealing with uncomfortable people. However, it gives you an insight into the problems that others face and really will develop your sense of empathy. Additionally, receptionists tend to be talented multitaskers, able to manage a number of ongoing situations without breaking a sweat. The diversity of the role makes for an exciting day's work.
3. Progression
This one might surprise you, but there are a number of career opportunities for a medical receptionist. If you treat the role as a permanent career path, you really can progress. How about stepping up the ladder and becoming a medical secretary, or have you thought about the managerial positions you could step into? Being a receptionist can open a lot of doors and give you the skills and experience to work your way up the ladder.
What are employers looking for?
When hiring a medical receptionist, there are a few key qualities that every employer wants.
1. Personable
Firstly, a friendly and approachable demeanour is imperative. When applying for a receptionist role make sure to showcase that you have strong social skills. Highlight the roles you have worked in where you have had to use these skills, and always remember to smile in the interview.
2. Organisation
It is incredibly important that a receptionist has the ability to multitask and has strong organisational skills. Throughout the hiring process, accentuate these skills and give examples of the times when you have been under pressure and how you managed to cope. Showing the employer that you can deal with demanding situations will put you ahead of the crowd.
3. Communication
Lastly, employers like to know that you have the ability to communicate effectively and interpret information from those around you. Make sure to read the application carefully and follow all the instructions, and then once you're through to the interview stage make sure to listen clearly.