Receptionist Interview Questions and Answers (UK): Front Desk, Medical and Hotel Reception

Receptionists are the first face of a business. Employers need someone who is polite, calm, organised and good at multitasking. The interview will test how you handle several things at once and how you deal with people.

What employers look for

• A warm and professional manner.

• Excellent communication, face to face and on the phone.

• Organisation and multitasking.

• Confidentiality and discretion.

• Basic IT skills, such as email, diaries and booking systems.

Common questions

Why do you want to be a receptionist? "I enjoy meeting people and making them feel welcome. I am organised and I like being at the centre of a busy office."

How do you prioritise when the phone is ringing and a visitor arrives? "I would greet the visitor with eye contact and a smile, answer the call if I can do it quickly or ask the caller to hold, and make sure neither feels ignored."

How would you deal with a rude visitor? "I would stay calm, listen, apologise for any inconvenience and see how I can help. If needed, I would ask a manager to step in."

How do you handle confidential information? "I do not discuss anything I overhear, I keep paperwork out of sight and I only share information with people who are authorised to know."

What would you do in a fire alarm? "I would follow the evacuation procedure, bring the visitor log or sign-in list, and help visitors to the assembly point."

Sector differences

In a medical or dental practice, you will be expected to understand patient confidentiality and data protection. In a hotel, expect questions on bookings, upselling and handling complaints. In corporate offices, expect questions on visitor management and security.

Practical skills

You may take a typing or Microsoft Office test and a short role play on the phone. Practise answering with a standard greeting and writing clear messages.

Quick answers

What should I wear? Smart business dress. You represent the company.

Do I need qualifications? Not necessarily, but customer service and administration qualifications help.

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