What hours and shifts information should I include in a Hotel Receptionist job description?

Date modified: 22nd September 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email. Or book a demo to see how hospitality businesses use Pilla to create and record job descriptions.

Hotel Receptionist Job Description Template

This job description template provides a full working exmaple using our six step approach. Open the template in the Pilla app and customise each section to make it specific to your role and business.

We operate a welcoming 85-room boutique hotel catering to business travelers, leisure guests, and special occasion visitors who expect personalized service and attention to detail. Our reception team serves as the first point of contact, creating positive impressions through professional hospitality, local knowledge, and efficient service delivery. The front desk environment requires multitasking abilities, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving skills to handle diverse guest needs while coordinating with housekeeping, maintenance, and management teams. Our service philosophy emphasizes genuine warmth, proactive assistance, and creating memorable experiences that encourage guest loyalty and positive reviews. The role offers exposure to international guests, corporate accounts, and special events requiring discretion, professionalism, and adaptability.
• Welcome arriving guests professionally, conducting efficient check-in procedures while explaining hotel amenities and local attractions • Manage reservation systems including booking modifications, room assignments, and special request coordination • Process guest payments, handle cash transactions, and reconcile daily financial reports with accuracy and attention to detail • Respond to guest inquiries promptly, providing information about hotel services, dining options, and area recommendations • Coordinate with housekeeping department on room readiness, maintenance issues, and guest service requests • Handle telephone communications including call routing, message taking, and wake-up call coordination • Assist guests with luggage, transportation arrangements, and concierge services as needed • Manage guest complaints and concerns professionally, escalating complex issues to management while seeking immediate solutions • Maintain accurate guest records, registration information, and confidentiality of personal data • Support group bookings and corporate accounts through specialized check-in procedures and billing arrangements • Execute night audit procedures including security checks, financial reconciliation, and preparation for following day operations • Coordinate with other departments on special events, conferences, and VIP guest requirements
Essential Skills: Exceptional customer service abilities with natural hospitality instincts and professional communication style; proficiency with hotel property management systems (PMS) and reservation software; strong organizational skills for managing multiple tasks simultaneously during busy periods; cultural sensitivity and patience when working with diverse international guests; basic mathematics and cash handling abilities for payment processing and financial transactions; problem-solving capabilities for addressing guest concerns and operational challenges promptly; professional presentation and grooming standards representing hotel brand image. Preferred Qualifications: Previous hotel or hospitality experience demonstrating guest relations expertise; additional language skills for international guest communication; knowledge of local attractions, restaurants, and transportation options; experience with corporate travel arrangements and group booking coordination; familiarity with safety and security protocols in hospitality environments; computer proficiency including Microsoft Office and property management systems; understanding of travel industry practices and accommodation standards.
We're looking for both experienced hospitality professionals and newcomers who are excited about starting a career in hotels. While previous front desk or customer service experience is great to have, we care more about your attitude, professionalism, and genuine commitment to making guests feel welcome than how many years you've worked in hotels. We'll provide comprehensive training covering our booking systems, service standards, local area knowledge, and how to handle all guest interactions. New team members get plenty of support from experienced reception staff and opportunities to learn about other hotel departments too. There are real career advancement opportunities including moving up to senior receptionist, guest relations coordinator, and front office management roles within our hotel group.
We're looking for someone who genuinely loves helping people and creating great experiences for our guests while staying professional and composed in all situations. You should be naturally empathetic and patient, especially when helping guests with special needs or sorting out any issues they might have. We want people who take pride in representing our hotel, keep positive energy throughout different shifts, and contribute to our supportive team culture. The right person will pay attention to details in guest interactions, be reliable in following our procedures, and be flexible when priorities change. Strong people skills, cultural awareness, and staying calm during challenging situations are really important for front desk success.
Competitive hourly rate of £10.00-£12.50 based on experience and shift patterns, with additional premiums for night audit and weekend responsibilities. Comprehensive benefits package includes: nutritious staff meals and refreshment facilities; 25 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays; health and wellness benefits including employee assistance programs; ongoing professional development including hospitality certification support; flexible scheduling accommodating work-life balance where operationally possible; staff accommodation options for suitable candidates; discounted rates at partner hotels for personal travel; career progression opportunities with clear advancement pathways; supportive team environment with regular recognition programs; uniform provision and professional appearance allowances.

When writing a job description for a Hotel Receptionist, it's important to clearly state the hours and shifts they will be expected to work. This helps potential candidates understand their work schedule and assess if it fits their personal commitments. Include details about the shift patterns (morning, afternoon, night), the expected number of hours per week, and any requirements for weekends or holidays.

Common misunderstanding: It’s sufficient to just mention full-time or part-time.

Simply stating "full-time" or "part-time" is not enough. Candidates need to know specific shift times and patterns to decide if the job suits their lifestyle. Detailed shift information prevents misunderstandings and attracts candidates who are genuinely able to commit to the schedule.

Common misunderstanding: Specific shift details can be discussed after hiring.

Waiting until after hiring to discuss specific shift details can lead to dissatisfaction and high turnover. Providing these details upfront ensures that only candidates who are comfortable with the hours will apply, which helps in retaining staff.

Should I mention early, late, and weekend shifts in the description?

Yes, you should definitely mention if the job involves early mornings, late evenings, or weekend shifts. Being transparent about these requirements helps in attracting applicants who are already willing and able to work these hours. This clarity can also enhance the employer's reputation for being open and honest, which is attractive to potential employees.

Common misunderstanding: Mentioning undesirable shifts might deter applicants.

While it's true that some candidates might be deterred by early, late, or weekend shifts, it's better to be upfront. This way, you ensure that those who do apply are more likely to stay in the role, as they are aware of the requirements from the start.

Common misunderstanding: Flexible shifts imply irregular hours.

Clarifying that shifts might include early, late, or weekend hours doesn't necessarily mean they are irregular. You can still offer regular, scheduled shifts that occur at these times, which should be clearly communicated to avoid confusion.

How much detail do applicants want about scheduling flexibility?

Applicants generally appreciate knowing as much as possible about scheduling flexibility. This includes details on shift swapping, possibilities for choosing preferred shifts, and any options for remote work if applicable. Providing this information can make the position more attractive to potential candidates who value work-life balance.

Common misunderstanding: Flexibility means lack of structure.

Some employers worry that highlighting flexibility can give the impression of a chaotic work environment. However, when properly managed, flexibility can be a structured part of the job that helps staff manage their work and personal life more effectively.

Common misunderstanding: All applicants prefer a flexible schedule.

Not all candidates seek flexibility. Some might prefer having fixed hours that don’t change. It’s important to communicate the nature of the flexibility offered, whether it’s optional or a required part of the job, to attract the right candidates.