A dealership receptionist sets the tone for every visit. A friendly welcome and quick, accurate answers turn first-time visitors into repeat customers, and the role also keeps sales and service running by handling calls, leads and appointments.
At a glance
| Role | Greet customers, answer calls and messages, book appointments and handle paperwork |
|---|---|
| Education | High school diploma or GED; studies in office management or customer service help |
| Other requirements | A valid driver's license may be required |
| Helpful background | Administrative or customer service experience |
What the job involves
Receptionists are usually the first person a customer meets at the dealership. They answer general questions, put calls through to the right extension and need a good grasp of the dealership's services, layout and staff.
The desk also handles data entry, such as collecting and recording customer details, and hands out receipts and paperwork after a purchase or a service visit. Some receptionists reach customers through social media, newsletters and email too, so organization and time management matter.
Typical duties
- Welcoming customers and guiding them through their visit with a professional manner
- Answering phone calls, emails and social media messages promptly and accurately
- Passing information to the right people in each department
- Scheduling and managing appointments for customers and staff, including service visits and test drives
- Following up on sales leads
- Entering customer data, managing electronic and paper documents and running reports for staff
- Typing reports and printing sale receipts, memos and brochures
- Taking cash and card payments and making sure the right amount is charged
Skills that matter
- A warm, welcoming personality and a friendly, capable presence
- Clear writing and speaking
- Multitasking and staying organized
- Problem solving
- Adapting to different situations and surroundings
- Comfort with computers and learning new software; knowing the dealership's software suite is a bonus
How to get started
- Meet the basics. Finish high school or a GED, and keep a valid driver's license, which some dealerships ask for.
- Build service experience. An administrative job or any role serving the public, even outside the car business, shows you can handle customers.
- Sharpen your computer skills. Practice with office and scheduling software so you can learn a dealership's system quickly.
- Consider further study. A degree related to office management or customer service makes a candidate more competitive.
- Learn the dealership. Once hired, get to know its departments, staff and services so you can answer questions with confidence.
Is it right for you?
The role suits an organized people person who stays calm when the phone rings, a customer walks in and a form needs printing all at once. It is also a good way into the car business and a view of every department.
Looking for a job in the car business?
See the open positions at Kendall FL Auto, including front desk roles, and apply online.