Receptionists play an important role in any office environment, including that of a tax office. Receptionists are responsible for making a favorable first impression and making new or potential clients feel welcome. Receptionists can make or break a deal. Although many perceive receptionists to be at the bottom of the proverbial totem pole, they play a vital role in running the office and securing new clients.

Job Description

Receptionists serve as the first point of contact for new, potential or regular clients. They must be courteous and helpful in order to provide a good impression of the tax office. Receptionists in tax offices are responsible for greeting clients as they come in and making sure they're comfortable while waiting to see the accountant or lawyer they have an appointment with. The receptionist will then let the accountant or lawyer know that the client has arrived.

Duties

Receptionists in tax offices are also responsible for answering the phone and emails, and they take and pass on messages to the appropriate persons. A receptionist in a tax office is also responsible for responding to questions from the general public, and for scheduling appointments for the accountants and others who work there. In addition, many receptionists in tax offices ship and receive packages and open and distribute mail.

Working Conditions

Receptionists in tax offices usually have their own desk in a bright, comfortable office or lobby. They spend much of their day either sitting behind the desk and using the computer and answering the phone, or using other office equipment, such as the fax machine and the photocopier. Receptionists in tax offices typically work eight hours a day, five days a week, although this can change as April 15th approaches, and overtime may be necessary if the office is open for extended hours.

Earnings

Receptionists working in a tax office can expect to earn anywhere from $17,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the size of the tax office, the location and the receptionist's level of experience. Many tax office receptionists are entitled to paid sick days, paid vacation time and health insurance, and have access to a 401k.

Education

To work as a receptionist in a tax office, a minimum of a high school diploma is required. However, many tax office receptionists have attended community college to earn a diploma or a certificate. Community colleges across the country offer diploma and certificate programs in office administration, office and business technology, and executive office administration. In addition, many tax offices find it greatly beneficial to have a receptionist who speaks Spanish. Receptionists in tax offices should be highly organized, polite, friendly, courteous and have the ability to stay calm under pressure.