How Do I Learn to Be a Good Receptionist for City Hall Jobs?

City Hall bustles with citizens and businesses that arrive to obtain licenses, attend meetings or ask questions. The receptionist greets many of these people and provides the first impression of City Hall. Therefore the receptionist must have excellent customer service and basic clerical skills. Because the receptionist is the first line for answering questions whether in person or by phone, a good understanding of how the local government works and what each elected or appointed official does is beneficial.


Most receptionist positions are entry level; they don't typically require a college degree. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually acceptable. However, if you want to learn how to be a good receptionist, taking a few higher-level classes can help. Many universities and technical schools offer clerical and secretarial classes that can help teach you the skills you need as a receptionist. Some offer certifications at the end of the courses, or you can continue through an associate's degree. Either option makes you a more attractive receptionist candidate.

Government Knowledge

As the receptionist, you're on the front lines when it comes to talking to citizens, local businesses and other people trying to reach municipal government offices, either by phone or in person. To be a good receptionist at City Hall, you must understand how municipal government functions, how it differs from county and state governments, and government officials' roles. Some of this training will come on the job, but learning the basics before you apply gives you a head start. Some municipalities offer training sessions for their citizens, sometimes called "get-to-know-us" sessions. These sessions teach citizens how the local governments work and interact, how city council meetings are run, what issues the municipal government handles and a basic breakdown of officials' roles. If your municipality doesn't offer such a class, start attending public meetings, such as council meetings, to learn more about how your municipal government functions.

Customer Service

Receptionists spend much of their days interacting with the public. This means you must have strong customer service skills. Any job that deals with the public, such as working as a cashier or waitress, can help you build your customer service skills. You must be pleasant and professional when answering the phone or helping citizens in person, even when those citizens are unpleasant. The phones can get busy, so you must also be comfortable juggling multiple phone calls and helping walk-ins while still being courteous.

Administrative Skills

City Halls typically have multiline phone systems, which can take time to understand fully. If you have strong technological skills, you can expedite the learning of the phone system. Build your computer skills by taking courses on popular software, such as word processing and spreadsheet programs, or by working temporary administrative positions. Although the receptionist doesn't replace the administrative assistants assigned to each elected official, you must be able to help with overflow tasks such as responding to emails, filing and stuffing meeting packets. You must switch gears quickly and be a team player; your job is to support everyone in City Hall, not just to answer the phones.

2016 Salary Information for Receptionists



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