WORK IT OUT... JODIE, HOTEL RECEPTIONIST

Reader Jodie tells us about her job as a hotel receptionist... could it be the right career path for YOU? 

Jodie says:
I left school at sixteen and did A levels in English Lit, history and textiles at college, but I had no idea what I wanted to do. I passed my A levels and decided I'd had enough of education, so I got a job as a receptionist in a beauty salon. I liked it at first, but the atmosphere between the workers wasn't quite right. I moved to my first hotel and learnt the ropes - how to use the systems and answering the phones, getting to grips with it all. I then moved to my second hotel and began doing extra training in order to work my way up to management level.Working in a hotel is always rewarding - you get to meet all kinds of people and hear their stories, as well as making sure they have the best holiday or stay possible.

There are challenges, of course. Something could go wrong maintenance wise and you have to bear the brunt of any complaints; or perhaps people aren't happy with their rooms and want things sorted out. You have to make sure you're strong enough for this! The thing I struggled most with at first was having difficult days myself - I suffer with depression - and having to put on a brave face and not allow it to impact on your work. You have to leave your troubles at home, in a way. I did get used to this, and there is something about having to put the guests needs first that does make you forget your own worries until the day is over. There is a lot to learn, especially with the booking systems which can be complicated, but if you take it step by step it all falls into place.

I once thought I'd be totally wrong for this line of work, being in the public eye all day and having to look after others when sometimes I struggle to look after myself, but in fact the job has given me such a confidence boost and renewed faith in myself. If you want to be a receptionist, you must ensure you don't mind being the first port of call for customers and staff - I find that there's a buzz about being the first person people see when they walk into the hotel. The main qualities you need are a friendly and professional telephone manner, so that people feel inclined to stay with you and feel they are being respected. Most places ask for GCSEs in English and Maths and some reception experience, and although some places have a strict uniform, I just have to wear a smart blouse or shirt. You must be able to stay calm under pressure and look after several things at once - but this can be learned, and if you put yourself in the situation and think things through, it's often much easier than you'd think. You must be good at admin and IT, but being friendly, courteous, professional and willing to learn are vital too... the rest will come with time.

I absolutely love my job and love having the ability to make others feel happy and cared for. I still have bad days - everyone does - but overall I am much happier. This job can turn the shyest, saddest, most nervous person into someone with a whole new sense of purpose... and that's exactly what it has done for me!

Cathy says:
I LOVE this post - Jodie has made me see a side of the hospitality business that I had never thought of before, and I love how the job has transformed her confidence and self esteem! Have YOU ever thought of this kind of career? COMMENT BELOW to tell us more!