Good keyboarding skills and computer knowledge is essential for this position. You do need to have great interpersonal skills and use telephone etiquette. You do not need any post-secondary training to be able to obtain a job as a telereceptionist, as you will receive the training you need when you get hired for the job. If you have previous experience in customer service this will be an asset to you in this position. String verbal communications skills are essential, as you will be talking to customers all the time. Problem solving is also essential and the ability to adapt to changing situations. If you are fluent in a second language this will be a bonus for you especially if you speak a language that will allow you to communicate with most of the customers in their native language.
Since this position is usually none that runs round the clock, you will have to work shift work. You will get regular vacation during the year, but you may not always get time off for the government holidays. There will be a rotating schedule so you will know in advance when you have to work and what shift you are on.
It is also possible that you can do the work of a telereceptionist for a business without having to leave your home. Many businesses now have virtual receptionists who handle the daily calls of the business and then transfer the messages to an office inbox by telephone or email. In this manner a business can save money by not having the expense of an office complete with equipment or for paying benefits attached to having a permanent receptionist on staff. To work in this way, you would have a telephone at home that is connected to the number customers use for the business. You will actually be an independent contractor for this business and work either your own hours or a set number of hours a day that the employer requires. You will have your own computer, fax machine and copier, which you can claim as expenses for your own business as a telereceptionist.
