How much experience should I ask for 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 experience required. This helps ensure that you attract candidates who are capable of handling the responsibilities of the job. Consider whether the role is entry-level, mid-level, or requires advanced experience, and specify the nature of the experience needed, such as familiarity with hotel management systems or guest service expertise.

Common misunderstanding: Asking for more experience always leads to better candidates.

While it might seem logical to seek candidates with lots of experience, this can deter talented individuals who are capable but haven't had extensive time in the field. It's often beneficial to focus on the quality and relevance of experience rather than just the duration.

Common misunderstanding: Experience requirements are the same for all hotels.

The experience needed can vary greatly depending on the type of hotel and the specific duties involved. A high-volume city hotel might require receptionists who can handle a fast-paced environment, while a boutique hotel might look for skills in providing personalised guest service.

Should I hire someone without experience if they seem like a good personality fit?

Yes, hiring someone without experience can be a good decision if they show a strong personality fit and a genuine enthusiasm for the hospitality industry. Many hotels value personality traits and cultural fit highly, as these can lead to long-term success and integration within the team. If your hotel is willing to provide training, an eager candidate without experience can turn into a valuable asset.

Common misunderstanding: Inexperienced candidates cannot handle the responsibilities of a hotel receptionist.

Lack of experience doesn't necessarily mean inability. With the right training and support, individuals new to the industry can thrive and excel in their roles, especially if they have the right attitude and a willingness to learn.

Common misunderstanding: Personality isn’t as important as professional skills.

While technical skills are important, the hospitality industry greatly benefits from individuals who can create a welcoming and friendly environment. Personality plays a huge role in guest satisfaction and can often compensate for a lack of experience.

How do I decide if our hotel is a good fit for entry-level or experienced staff?

Deciding whether to hire entry-level or experienced staff depends on your hotel's operational needs and the complexity of the tasks involved. If your hotel has robust training programs and the ability to mentor, entry-level candidates can be a great addition. However, if the role requires handling complex situations or immediate leadership, experienced staff might be necessary.

Common misunderstanding: Entry-level staff are not suitable for high-quality hotels.

Entry-level candidates can perform exceptionally well in high-quality settings, especially if given the proper training and support. Their fresh perspective and eagerness to learn can bring new energy to your team.

Common misunderstanding: Experienced staff always adapt better to new environments.

While experienced staff bring valuable knowledge, they might also carry habits from previous roles that could clash with your hotel’s operations. It’s important to assess how well a candidate’s experience aligns with your specific needs and culture.