A Receptionist greets and directs customers or visitors that come in to an office or business, and answers and directs incoming phone calls. Deals with mail or courier services. May schedule appointments or meeting rooms, gather patient information, or assist with filing or other administrative support work.
The receptionist is the client's first contact when calling or visiting the practice and as such represents the professional image of the practice to callers and visitors. The receptionist answers telephones with a clear and professional voice, greets clients upon arrival, prepares patient files for the appropriate service to be provided, receives and relays client correspondence, and updates client financial records. The exceptional receptionist has the ability to diffuse negative client situations and foster client bonding.
EDUCATION AND LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS
High school diploma or equivalent. Customer Service background desirable but not required. Typing skills required. Ability to operate computer programs and practice management software.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Experience with basic office functions in a busy office environment preferred. Previous receptionist and veterinary practice experience are desirable but not required.
PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
The receptionist must be able to: Quickly learn how to pronounce, know the meaning of and spell commonly used veterinary terms. Perform computer skills, type 30 words per minute. Be able to multi-task and handle a busy work environment Feel and express a genuine liking for animals and for working in an animal care environment. Can conduct oneself in a confident and professional manner even when stressed and/or focused on individual tasks. Can answer client's inquiries about hospital policies, basic animal care questions, routine procedures and products. Can maintain the appearance of the front office through cleaning and organization. Can maintain positive, cooperative relationships with other employees. Can display tact and diplomacy with staff members and clients even when busy or hectic. Can work almost constantly in the presence of other staff members and clients. Can answer telephones and handle calls quickly, efficiently and in a professional and friendly manner, using a multi-line telephone system. Can deal intelligibly, pleasantly and efficiently with clients, often doing several things at one time. Can receive and relay telephone, fax, and email messages accurately and promptly. Can accurately maintain patient records. Can greet clients, enter or update client and pet (animal) information into practice computer system, escort to exam rooms for medical procedures. Can prepare health certificates, immunization certificates, laboratory requests, and euthanasia certificates. Can outline costs and fees in a positive light while supporting hospital payment policies. Can prepare client invoices and obtain payments for services performed. Can educate clients on over-the-counter products such as shampoos and nutraceuticals; has full knowledge of heartworm and external parasite preventives to promote client education and sales. Understands and carries out oral and written directions. Can turn phone-shoppers into clients through relationship building and bonding. Can easily remember clients and patients names and uses them. Has good computer skills and shows accuracy in inputting details. Can accurately handle payment transactions. Can handle client correspondence including procedure reminders, thank you cards, welcome cards, sympathy arrangements and cards, and A/R statements. Can keep the front desk running efficiently and smoothly even when there is client wait time. Can defuse situations and resolve client conflicts in a manner that reflects exceptional customer service. Performs other duties as assigned.
Physical Effort :
Work requires lifting and carrying patients and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs; requires sitting and standing for extended periods of time. Working conditions : May be exposed to unpleasant odors, noises and animal feces, urine, blood and vomit. May be exposed to bites, scratches and contagious diseases. The range for the position is $10.00 per hour to $18.00 per hour, wage is based on experience and ability to perform duties/tasks. Benefits are outlined in the employee manual and are separate from the hourly wage.
Job Type:
Full-time Pay:
$10.00 - $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
