Receptionists are the first people to greet clients via both telephone calls and visits to the business. Their responsibilities associated with telephone reception duties include answering incoming calls, taking messages, directing calls to the correct party, checking voicemails and returning missed calls. Receptionists may also answer general questions that clients and vendors have about the business.

When a client or vendor is visiting the business in-person, a receptionist greets the visitor and directs them to the proper location. A receptionist may also ask the visitor to wait in the lobby while they contact the correct party to escort the visitor. The receptionist may also maintain the guest logs.