There is very little that you can do to prepare yourself for a school receptionist interview completely.
But what you can do is practice possible answers to questions that you may be asked for a school receptionist position.
The following is a set of questions and answers for a school receptionist job interview.
These sample interview questions and answers will give you an idea of what to expect and how to answer in an interview.
6 Interview Questions and Answers for a School Receptionist
1. What are the main duties of a school receptionist? How experienced are you in the area?
The primary duties of a school receptionist are:
- Answering telephone calls and providing information – both over the telephone and in person.
- Taking and relaying messages.
- Providing initial school registration information.
- Assisting parents in filling out school forms.
Additionally, a school receptionist is required to schedule appointments and monitor and maintain office equipment. I am proficient in handling all these, along with providing general administrative and clerical support to the school office.
2. Do you think working as a school receptionist is somewhat different from working as a receptionist elsewhere? How?
Yes, working as a school receptionist is definitely different from working in a corporate office, for instance.
In a school office, you are not merely providing information and handling the influx of people.
You also have to provide preliminary school registration and admission information, deal with parents and students, and assist teachers at times too.
3. How have you assisted teachers in the past?
During exam and assessment times, it was my duty to assist them with paperwork and photocopies. I also provided assistance in sorting out exam papers and binding them so that they can be stored properly.
4. What makes you a good contender to be hired as a school receptionist?
Apart from the fact that I have over 5 years of experience working as a school receptionist, I am well-organized, patient, and have a pleasant attitude, all of which help me do my job properly. Also, I am a stickler for perfection, which makes it easy for me to handle my work in a proper manner.
5. How do you handle adversities? Have you ever been faced with a situation where your mettle was tested?
I am an extremely calm person, which is why handling adversaries is not much of a problem for me. I deal with all adverse situations in a calm and tactful manner.
I was once verbally abused by a parent who was not happy with how his child’s marks had turned out. Since I was the first person he met when he entered school, I had to face his anger. I tried to explain that he would have to take this up with the principal, but he wasn’t having any of it. So I had no choice but to remain calm and call the authorities to handle the situation.
6. As far as inventory is concerned, what is your experience?
I have been actively involved in handling the inventory of office supplies and equipment, along with creating and maintaining liaisons with vendors and suppliers for prompt and accurate deliveries.