Illustrative workspace banner: Receptionist CV: what to write and what to avoid

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How to write a receptionist CV

A receptionist is the first person visitors meet, so the CV should read like the work: clear, tidy and easy to follow. Show how you handle people, phones, schedules and small problems.

What employers usually look for

A clear, friendly way of speaking and writing.
Organisation: calendars, bookings, post, visitor records.
Calm handling of several things at once.
Confidence with basic office software and email.

A summary you can adapt

Receptionist with three years of front-desk experience in a small clinic. Welcoming and organised, used to answering the phone, booking appointments and keeping visitor records accurate.

Fictional wording to show the shape. Replace every detail with your own true facts.

Turning duties into clear experience lines

Add a figure only if you know it is true. If you do not, leave it out.

Instead of: Answered phones.

Try: Answered incoming calls, took clear messages and directed callers to the right person.

Instead of: Did admin.

Try: Booked appointments, updated records and sent reminders to keep the day running on time.

Instead of: Welcomed visitors.

Try: Greeted visitors, checked them in and kept the waiting area tidy and informed.

Instead of: Used the computer.

Try: Used email, a shared calendar and a booking system to manage daily schedules.

Skills worth listing (only the ones you really have)

Front-desk service
Phone manner
Appointment booking
Calendar management
Email
Record keeping
Written communication
Discretion

Common mistakes to avoid

Starting with a long list of duties instead of what you handled well.
Using an informal email address or unclear contact details.
Describing office software you have not used.

Questions people ask

Do I need a photo on a receptionist CV?

It depends on the employer and country. Many do not expect one, so add a photo only when it suits your application.

Which skills matter most?

Clear communication, organisation and calm under pressure. Back each with a plain example from your work or study.

How do I show I am good with people?

Describe what you did: welcomed visitors, answered questions, solved a small problem. Avoid claiming it without an example.

Next steps

Start your CV See an editable example

This guide is general advice written with AI assistance and edited by the CVPebble team. It does not promise any hiring result. The translations have not been reviewed by native speakers.