There are numerous types of info desk vacancies available. Some jobs require more hands-on experience than others. It is determined by the individual's interests and level of comfort. Office managers, data entry workers, and customer service representatives are examples of common info desk job openings.
Info desk vacancies are available in many different industries, including retail, healthcare, education, government, helpdesk, and finance. They often require little formal training and pay well for those without university degrees.
What is an Info Desk Job?
Information desk jobs require a person to provide information to customers or clients who have questions or require assistance. Answering questions in person, by phone, or by email, as well as providing information about products or services, directing people to the appropriate resources or departments, and handling other customer service tasks, are all examples of what this entails. Jobs at the information desk can be found in a variety of settings, such as hotels, airports, hospitals, schools, libraries, and other public or private facilities.
Where Do I Find These Jobs?
There are several ways to find these jobs. One option is to search for “info” on our job board by clicking here. Another option is to use social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter to see what people are saying about their experiences at different companies.
What does a typical day for an Info Desk employee entail?
A typical day for an information desk employee will differ depending on the setting and the individual's job duties. On a typical day, an information desk employee may engage in the following activities:
- Greeting customers or clients who come up to the information desk
- Answering customer or client questions or providing information
- Giving people who need help finding their way directions or assistance
- Managing customer complaints and other customer service issues
- Transaction processing, such as making reservations or selling tickets
- Keeping track of customer interactions in the form of records or logs
- Information or materials, such as brochures or maps, must be updated.
- Keeping an eye on security cameras or other surveillance equipment
- Coordination with other members of staff to aid or resolve issues
In general, an information desk employee's primary responsibility is to provide customers or clients with timely, accurate, and helpful information. This can necessitate excellent customer service abilities as well as the ability to remain calm and professional in potentially stressful situations.
These vacancies might require the following types of education and experience, depending on each position and a company's requirements
- National Senior Certificate or NSC (NQF4). Also known as Matric or Grade 12.
- Two years of accounting experience are preferred (but optional).
- Usually, you must have reliable transportation to work, unless the job can be done remotely. However, there is still a considerable number of companies that require in-house vacancies. Some might offer hybrid working options.
Read: 6 Tips to Increase Your Salary
Let's explore more of these job titles in detail.
Office Manager
A job as an office manager is a position in a business or organisation which coordinates, schedules, and manages the office staff. Office managers are typically responsible for managing the administrative affairs of the organisation and ensuring that all aspects of the office run smoothly. This includes overseeing employees' workflow, ensuring the office runs efficiently, maintaining records, and keeping up with the office's budget. Office managers are often called the "C-level" manager, since they may oversee and manage any number of managers.
Data Entry Worker
The entry-level position of a data entry worker is responsible for entering data into a computer system. This position may require basic computer skills, as well as the ability to read and understand written instructions.
Customer Service Representative
This position is a customer service representative who will assist our clients with their technical issues and/or help them to navigate through the website or other services.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities of a Customer Service Representative
- Assist in the processing of customer service requests.
- Ensure the efficient, accurate and courteous handling of all incoming calls.
- Answer and transfer incoming customer inquiries to appropriate departments as well as to appropriate agents.
- Follow up on all customer inquiries and ensure that each inquiry is closed in a timely manner.
- Inform the customer when an inquiry has been closed.
- Provide excellent customer service through effective communication with customers, managers, and co-workers. Follow all company policies and procedures regarding the handling of customer service calls and complaints.
- Always maintain a professional appearance in all work areas and in accordance with company standards.
- Assist with the handling of accounts payable and receivable functions.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What's Next for Me After My Info Desk Job?
Once you've landed a job at an info desk, you might find yourself wondering what comes next. There are several options available to you, such as continuing with education or moving up into management. It would be in your best interest to upskill yourself to improve your knowledge and abilities.
Some examples might include:
- Gain customer service experience: The ability to provide excellent customer service is one of the most important skills for an information desk employee. If you lack experience in this field, consider volunteering or taking on a part-time job in customer service to gain some.
- Improve your communication skills: Information desk employees must be able to effectively communicate with a diverse range of people, including customers, clients, and other staff members. Consider taking a communication course or workshop to improve your communication skills.
- Discover the specific organisation or industry: Each organisation or industry has its own set of products, services, policies, and procedures. If you are applying for an information desk position in a specific organisation or industry, try to learn as much as you can about it so that you can provide customers with accurate and helpful information.
- Keep up with technological advances: Many information desk jobs involve using computers, phones, and other technology to provide customers with information and assistance. If you are unfamiliar with these tools, consider taking a course or attending a workshop to improve your knowledge.
- Build your knowledge base: Employees at the information desk are expected to be knowledgeable about a wide range of topics, including products, services, policies, procedures, and local attractions or amenities. Consider reading books, articles, or other materials that can help you learn more about the organisation or industry in which you are interested.
What are the downsides of info desk jobs?
Working as an information desk employee, like any other job, has its advantages and disadvantages.
It can be a high-stress job, for example, if you must deal with difficult customers or handle multiple tasks at once. It can also be monotonous because you may be answering the same questions over and over. Furthermore, the work may not be challenging or stimulating, leading to boredom or a lack of job satisfaction. Finally, the hours can be unpredictable, including nights, weekends, and holidays, making it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Why could this be a rewarding career?
Working as an info desk representative can be a rewarding career for a variety of reasons.
Some of the potential advantages of these positions include:
- Helping others: One of the most rewarding aspects of working at an information desk is the opportunity to assist those in need. You can play a key role in making people's experiences at the organisation more positive and enjoyable by providing information, answering questions, or directing them to the appropriate resources.
- Interacting with a wide range of people: Working at an information desk often entails interacting with a diverse group of people, including customers, clients, and other staff members. Meeting and interacting with people from various backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life can be a rewarding experience.
- Developing new skills: Info desk jobs can provide a variety of opportunities for learning and development, such as gaining customer service experience, improving communication skills, and staying current with technology. You can grow and advance in your career as you develop these skills, which can be personally rewarding.
- Working in a variety of settings: Info desk jobs are available in a variety of settings, such as hotels, airports, hospitals, schools, libraries, and other public or private facilities. This can allow you to work in a variety of interesting and dynamic environments, each with its own set of challenges and rewards.
In a nutshell, working as an info desk employee can be a fulfilling and rewarding career that allows you to help others while also learning new skills.