What 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.

When writing a job description for a Hotel Receptionist, start by giving a brief overview of your hotel. Then, list the core responsibilities, required skills, necessary experience, and personality traits you're looking for. Don’t forget to include details about compensation and benefits to attract the right candidates. This approach helps potential applicants understand what the job entails and whether they might be a good fit.

Common misunderstanding: A job description should be very brief to save time.

A detailed job description is crucial. It ensures that applicants understand the role and your expectations, which can save time later by reducing unsuitable applications.

Common misunderstanding: It’s not necessary to mention benefits or company culture in the job description.

Including information about benefits and company culture is very important as it can attract the right candidates and show why your hotel is a great place to work.

How can I tailor the job summary to reflect our hotel’s specific environment?

To tailor the job summary effectively, start by describing your hotel’s atmosphere, size, and values. Mention the type of service you provide, whether it's luxury, family-friendly, business-oriented, etc. Highlight unique aspects like your commitment to sustainability or community involvement. This helps set the tone and expectations, making it easier for candidates to see if they would fit well with your team.

Common misunderstanding: Generic job summaries are sufficient for any hotel.

A generic summary might attract many applicants, but they may not be the right fit. Tailoring your summary helps attract candidates who are more likely to thrive in your specific environment.

Common misunderstanding: Only large hotels need to tailor their job summaries.

Every hotel, no matter its size, has unique aspects that should be reflected in the job summary to attract the right candidates.

Why is it important to describe the style and pace of our front desk operations?

Describing the style and pace of your front desk operations in the job description helps potential candidates understand the daily work environment and the expectations. For instance, a high-volume, fast-paced hotel will need someone who can multitask effectively under pressure, while a boutique hotel might look for someone who excels in providing personalized guest experiences.

Common misunderstanding: All receptionist jobs are similar, so the style and pace don’t need to be specified.

Front desk operations can vary greatly between hotels, affecting the skills and attributes needed to succeed. Specifying this information helps in attracting suitable candidates.

Common misunderstanding: Describing the pace and style might deter good candidates.

While it might narrow the pool, it ensures that those who apply are better suited for the environment and more likely to perform well and stay longer.

Have a different question and can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our founder Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email.

What kind of personality traits work well for a Hotel Receptionist?

Effective personality traits for a hotel receptionist include being calm under pressure, organised, and having a teamwork-centric attitude.

What pay and benefits information should I include in a Hotel Receptionist job description?

When writing a job description for a Hotel Receptionist, include the salary range or pay rate, and any additional benefits such as bonuses or health benefits.

What are the main duties a Hotel Receptionist handles during a typical shift?

During a typical shift, a hotel receptionist is responsible for a range of tasks to enhance guest experience.

How much experience should I ask for in a Hotel Receptionist job description?

When drafting a job description for a hotel receptionist, clarify the level of experience required, whether it's for an entry-level, mid-level, or a position requiring advanced expertise.

What essential skills should I include in a Hotel Receptionist job description?

For a Hotel Receptionist job description, include essential skills that are crucial for daily responsibilities.

What support or career progression should I include in a Hotel Receptionist job description?

When drafting a job description for a Hotel Receptionist, it is important to include aspects of support and career progression such as specific training programmes, potential for promotions, and other professional development opportunities. Career progression should be viewed as encompassing more than just promotions, including various development opportunities like cross-training in different departments, leadership training, and special projects that enhance skills and knowledge.

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

When writing a job description for a Hotel Receptionist, clearly state the hours and shifts they will be expected to work.