Stepping into the world of reception and front desk roles is like opening a door to endless possibilities.

Imagine being the heartbeat of an office, where every call you answer and every guest you greet adds a layer to the company’s story. It’s a place where your smile can turn a day around and your organizational skills keep the entire operation running smoothly.

But how do you get there? How do you polish those skills to shine in any front desk scenario, from bustling hotels to corporate offices? The answer lies in finding the right course that not only teaches you the ropes but also ignites a passion for service and excellence. Let’s explore how the right online receptionist course can be your key to unlocking a world where first impressions count and every interaction matters.

What are the Prerequisites for Taking Online Receptionist Courses?

Online Receptionist Courses

The prerequisites for taking an online receptionist course can vary depending on the specific course and the institution offering it. However, some common prerequisites include:

  • Basic Computer Skills: As receptionists often need to use computers for tasks like scheduling appointments, managing databases, and communicating with clients, basic computer skills are typically required.
  • Soft Skills: Receptionists need to have good communication and interpersonal skills, as they often serve as the first point of contact for clients and customers.
  • Language Proficiency: Since receptionists need to communicate effectively with clients, customers, and other staff, proficiency in the language in which the course is taught is usually required.
  • Age Requirement: Some courses may have a minimum age requirement. For instance, one course requires learners to be at least 16 years old.
  • Educational Qualification: Some courses may require a certain level of education. For example, one course requires learners to have passed the 10th grade.
  • Access to Necessary Technology: Since these are online courses, learners will need access to a computer and a reliable internet connection.

It’s important to note that not all courses will have these prerequisites, and some may have additional requirements. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check the specific prerequisites for the course you’re interested in.

Top 10 Online Receptionist Courses to Enhance Your Skills

Courses Features
BUSINESS SKILLS – Receptionist and Frontline CourseThe course content is transferable, delving into other frontline duties that are valuable for various industries
Become a Corporate ReceptionistThe course can be accessed on both mobile and TV, providing flexibility in terms of where and how students can engage with the content
Becoming a Medical ReceptionistReal-world examples to provide practical insights into the medical receptionist role
The Professional Receptionist Training CourseThe Course dives into a comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of professional reception, from mastering communication and interpersonal skills
General Receptionist (Universal Class)Managing appointments, mail, records, and front desk responsibilities
Hotel Receptionist CertificationThere is lifetime access to the course materials
Job Readiness Course for MAs, PAs, and ReceptionistsStudy at your own pace with flexible online learning, allowing you to balance your studies with your personal and professional commitments. 
Introduction to Front Office Engage in 10 comprehensive lessons totaling 37 minutes of video content
Basic Secretarial Training CoursePractical lessons on essential tasks such as answering incoming calls and taking messages
Complete Dental Receptionist TrainingInteractive learning environment to facilitate better understanding.

1. BUSINESS SKILLS – Receptionist and Frontline Course (Skillshare)

BUSINESS SKILLS – Receptionist and Frontline Course (Skillshare)

The BUSINESS SKILLS – Receptionist and Frontline Course, available on Skillshare, is a comprehensive program taught by Chantelle Joubert-Dreyer, an experienced professional who owns and operates two Skills Development Colleges in South Africa. This course offers a deep dive into the roles and responsibilities of receptionists and frontline workers, covering a wide range of topics, including secretarial duties, office support, and soft skills training. It is designed to be insightful and energizing, inspiring students to learn and grow in their professional journey.

The course is suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals. Upon completion, students will have a solid foundation in the skills needed to succeed in receptionist and frontline roles.

Key Features of the BUSINESS SKILLS Course


  • The course welcomes beginners without receptionist experience, catering to diverse learners.
  • The course consists of 12 lessons, totaling 1 hour and 12 minutes.
  • The course content is transferable, delving into other frontline duties that are valuable for various industries.
  • The course covers front-desk selling, check-in/out, guest and luggage handling, creating first impressions, and room preparation.
  • The course also includes telephone etiquette and introduces front-office software operation.
  • The course is on Skillshare, offering a one-month free trial for learners to access its full library.

What You Will Learn in the ‘BUSINESS SKILLS Course’?

  • Represent your firm well by keeping a clean personal record and being aware of the employment requirements.
  • Meet and greet your clients professionally.
  • Answer calls and appropriately take messages.
  • Carry out your obligations as a frontline employee correctly and know how to handle additional frontline responsibilities.

Pros and Cons of ‘BUSINESS SKILLS’ Course

Pros

  • Take lessons from an interesting and informed professor.
  • Lessons that are well-structured and explained
  • Useful illustrations to reinforce learning
  • Strong emphasis on efficient communication

Cons

  • Less specialized to a certain industry
  • Primarily concentrated on switchboard operations and communication
  • Mostly appropriate for novices

Pricing: $48.90


2. Become a Corporate Receptionist (Udemy)

Become a Corporate Receptionist


The “Become a Corporate Receptionist” course on Udemy is the perfect starting point. Taught by industry experts, it offers beginner-friendly instruction and covers essential skills for success in corporate reception. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to enhance your abilities, this course provides valuable insights and prepares you for real-world challenges.

Key Features of the ‘Become a Corporate Receptionist Course’:

  • 2-hour concise content for focused learning.
  • Rated 4.5 out of 5, showing high satisfaction.
  • Accessible on mobile and TV for flexible learning.
  • Beginner-friendly design for all experience levels.
  • Offers practical knowledge and boosts confidence.
  • Affordable pricing for accessibility.
  • One of Udemy’s top receptionist courses, highlighting quality.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Become a Corporate Receptionist Course’?

  • Recognize the duties of a receptionist
  • Distinguish between different kinds of receptionists
  • Boost your communication abilities over the phone and in person.
  • Learn to listen well and interpret messages correctly.
  • Develop as a conscientious and orderly worker.

Pros and Cons of ‘Become a Corporate Receptionist Course’

Pros

  • Very introductory and instructive
  • Fantastic for people in customer-facing positions
  • Explained clearly and in line with the job description
  • Course that is easily accessible and offers fresh perspectives

Cons

  • More philosophical than real-world
  • Mostly intended for novices

Pricing: $9.57


3. Becoming a Medical Receptionist (Udemy)

Becoming a Medical Receptionist (Udemy)

“Becoming a Medical Receptionist” on Udemy, led by coach Dina Jumabayeva, is meticulously crafted to kickstart your career in the medical field. With a focus on communication skills and medical filing, this one-hour course offers practical examples for a comprehensive learning experience. Suitable for beginners, job seekers, and professionals alike, it has garnered over 1712 students and outstanding ratings, proving its value as a top resource for aspiring medical receptionists.

Key Features of the ‘Becoming a Medical Receptionist Course’:

  • Detailed modules on medical filing, records, and communication skills.
  • Real-world examples to provide practical insights into the medical receptionist role.
  • Interactive assessments to track your learning progress.
  • Access to a community of learners for peer support and networking.
  • A certificate of completion to enhance your professional credibility.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Becoming a Medical Receptionist Course’?

  • Put your organizing abilities to use in a stimulating yet demanding position.
  • Help with paperwork completion, filing, and even transcription of medical reports
  • Handle massive amounts of data generated every day Present your strengths to potential employers
  • Organise appointments (keeping computer programs in mind)

Pros and Cons of ‘Becoming a Medical Receptionist Course’

Pros

  • A useful course for prospective employees
  • Field-specific and extremely thorough instruction
  • Competent and experienced teacher
  • Includes a variety of receptionist tasks.

Cons

  • lacks supplementary materials or notes
  • Not as comprehensive as other classes

Pricing: $23.94


4. General Receptionist (Universal Class)

General Receptionist (Universal Class)

The Universal Class “General Receptionist” course, led by Linda Zavadil, equips prospective and experienced receptionists with essential skills for making a lasting impression in today’s fast-paced business world. With over 20 years of expertise, Linda covers office operations, technology, communication, and customer service, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned professional, this course provides a solid foundation for success in the receptionist role.

Key Features of the ‘General Receptionist Course’:

  • Improve professional communication skills.
  • Maintain positive company image and deliver excellent service.
  • Manage appointments, mail, records, and front desk duties.
  • Gain proficiency in office software and equipment.
  • Build confidence, time management, and resilience.

What You Will Learn in the ‘General Receptionist Course’?

  • Effectively execute fundamental office tasks
  • Learn the routine duties of a receptionist.
  • Make a fantastic initial impression.
  • Oversee client flow all day long. Make and keep appointments.

Pros and Cons of ‘General Receptionist Course’

Pros

  • Formally recognized end-of-class certificate
  • Self-paced and adaptable learning
  • Highly instructive with video and written resources.

Cons

  • More costly than other items on this list.
  • Overview as opposed to, say, medical specialization

Pricing: $120 with CEU Certificate and $95 without Certificate


5. The Professional Receptionist Training Course (Udemy)

The Professional Receptionist Training Course

Master reception skills with Udemy’s top-rated “The Professional Receptionist Training Course”. Led by Magda Hamman, a seasoned business expert, this engaging course distills real-world knowledge into 12 lively video lectures. Learn essential skills like phone management, visitor traffic direction, image projection, and customer service excellence. Join thousands of satisfied students and become the receptionist every company desires.

Key Features of the ‘Professional Receptionist Training Course’

  • Comprehensive curriculum covers all aspects of professional reception.
  • Engage in interactive lectures, quizzes, and downloadable resources.
  • Immerse in real-world scenarios mirroring receptionist challenges.
  • Enjoy lifetime access to course materials for skill refreshment.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Professional Receptionist Training Course’?

  • Understand the receptionist’s job within a firm.
  • Improve your communication skills and phone etiquette
  • Present yourself professionally.
  • Apply to jobs and prepare for interviews.
  • Receive and assist visitors.

Pros and Cons of the ‘Professional Receptionist Training Course’

Pros

  • Simple but effective teaching
  • Practical expertise, such as switchboard operation.
  • Informative and applicable to several front desk tasks.
  • Easy to follow and understand.

Cons

  • More “homemade” compared to other courses.
  • Mostly refresher knowledge.
  • Mostly opinion-based.

Pricing: $35.91


6. Hotel Receptionist Certification (New Skills Academy)

Hotel Receptionist Certification

Elevate your hospitality game with New Skills Academy’s “Hotel Receptionist Certification”. This CPD-approved course equips you with essential skills for upscale hotel front desks. With 16 modules and unlimited tutor support, it’s perfect for receptionists or career climbers. Gain internationally recognized certification and practical skills for success. New Skills Academy’s remote learning platform ensures engaging instruction for global career readiness.

Key Features of Hotel Receptionist Certification Course

  • It is an online course with 16 modules covering various aspects of hotel reception, takes 10 hours to complete.
  • Modules include topics like customer service, communication, procedures, safety regulations, etc.
  • The course aims to provide the knowledge and skills needed to be successful as a hotel receptionist.
  • It has CPD approval from the UK.
  • The course leads to an internationally recognized certification.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Hotel Receptionist Certification Course’?

  • Check-in visitors and offer typical hotel services.
  • Improve your soft skills to connect with guests and provide exceptional customer service and communication.
  • Participate in upselling of hotel services.
  • Understand the legal concerns related to your situation.

Pros and Cons of ‘Hotel Receptionist Certification’

Pros

  • Officially recognised by the CPD
  • Study at your own pace, from any device.
  • 24/7 student assistance and lifetime access.
  • Longer and more extensive than the other courses.

Cons

  • Admin fee for posting certificates
  • Priced higher than other courses.

Pricing: $120


7. Job Readiness Course for MAs, PAs, and Receptionists (EShopTrip)

Darling Ngoh, a seasoned healthcare professional, has crafted a comprehensive Job Readiness Course for MAs, PAs, and Receptionists. Designed for novices in the healthcare sector, it equips learners with vital skills and knowledge. Participants will grasp medical terminology, patient care protocols, insurance and billing procedures, and communication techniques. They’ll also master electronic health records (EHR) systems and healthcare regulations.

Key Features of the ‘Job Readiness Course for MAs, PAs and Receptionists’

  • Course encompasses medical terminology, patient care, insurance billing, and office procedures.
  • Interactive lectures, quizzes, and exercises reinforce understanding.
  • Study at your own pace with flexible online learning.
  •  Access career resources for resume writing, interview prep, and job search.
  • Gain practical insights and tips to succeed in healthcare.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Job Readiness Course for MAs, PAs and Receptionists Course’?

  • Longer lessons (less suitable for people on the move)
  • The administrative cost for posting certificates
  • Higher priced than other courses.

Pros and Cons of ‘Job Readiness Course for MAs, PAs and Receptionists’

Pros

  • Taught by a healthcare practitioner.
  • Additional downloadable resources.
  • Job preparation materials for all students.

Cons

  • Not as well-organized as other courses. 
  • Lessons are lengthy rather than short.

Pricing: $9.58


8.  Introduction to Front Office (typsy)

_Introduction to Front Office (typsy)

Sofia Barroso Gomez, International Receptionist of the Year 2016, presents “Introduction to Front Office” on Typsy. With over a decade in hospitality, Gomez shares invaluable insights and strategies for receptionist success. This interactive course covers guest journey understanding, front office roles, and communication techniques. Featuring quizzes and a certificate, it’s a comprehensive guide to kickstart your hospitality career.

Key Features of the ‘Introduction to Front Office Course’

  • Access 10 comprehensive lessons totaling 37 minutes of video content.
  • Gain insights into front-office operations and industry knowledge.
  • Understand guest journey, front office roles, communication techniques, and hotel standards.
  • Develop skills in handling inquiries, managing reservations, and resolving complaints.
  • Reinforce learning with interactive quizzes at the end of each lesson.
  • Receive a certificate of completion upon successfully finishing the course.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Introduction to Front Office Course’?

  • Understand how the various front office jobs interact.
  • Learn the skills needed to create an unforgettable experience.
  • Implement the front office duties and behaviors.
  • Be a bright star of the guest experience.

Pros and Cons of ‘Introduction to Front Office’ (typsy)

Pros

  • Taught by an award-winning front desk professional.
  • Learn online at your own speed.
  • Strong emphasis on a great guest experience.
  • Endorsed by the Institute of Hospitality

Cons

  • Primary emphasis on hotel-related positions
  • Less time-consuming than the remaining courses on this list

Note: This course is included in a Typsy Premium subscription


9.  Basic Secretarial Training Course (Udemy)

Basic Secretarial Training Course (Udemy)

Join Adele Beukes in the Basic Secretarial Training Course on Udemy, designed for aspiring receptionists and secretaries. This course offers essential skills for success in the business world. Adele’s vast experience and motivational guidance ensure a valuable learning experience. Earn a certificate and enhance your professional profile with this compact yet comprehensive course. Start your journey to becoming an exceptional receptionist or secretary today.

Key Features of the ‘Basic Secretarial Training Course’

  • 6 lectures totaling 39 minutes, ideal for busy schedules.
  • Comprehensive coverage of receptionist/secretary duties.
  • Practical lessons on tasks like call handling.
  • Insights from Adele Beukes, with extensive experience.
  • Certificate upon completion enhances professional profile.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Basic Secretarial Training Course’?

  • Understand and apply basic receptionist principles.
  • Answer calls, take messages, and comprehend the needed secretarial features.
  • Showcase your skills to potential employers.
  • Secure your first receptionist position.

Pros and Cons of ‘Basic Secretarial Training Course’

Pros

  • Informative and knowledgeable instruction.
  • A brief but concise introductory class.
  • Clearly explained points.

Cons

  • Less engaged than other teachers.
  • Shorter than the other courses on the list.

Pricing: $17.95


10. Complete Dental Receptionist Training (Udemy)

Complete Dental Receptionist Training

Embark on your dental administration journey with Dr. Rahul Monga’s Complete Dental Receptionist Training course on Udemy. This comprehensive course, equips you with the skills needed for success in dental reception. Benefit from Dr. Monga’s expertise, gain practical office skills, and earn a certificate to enhance your professional profile. Step confidently into the world of dental administration with this transformative course.

Key Features of the ‘Complete Dental Receptionist Training Course’

  • 51 lectures, 3 hours and 7 minutes, delve into dental reception.
  • Emphasis on practical dental office skills for real-world situations.
  • Certificate upon completion enhances professional standing.
  • Interactive learning environment for better understanding.
  • Access to additional resources for further learning.

What You Will Learn in the ‘Dental Receptionist Training Course’?

  • Perform responsibilities characteristic of a dental receptionist.
  • Understand the policies for working in a dental setting.
  • Present yourself boldly to employers.
  • Learn practical skills to excel in the field.

Pros and Cons of ‘Dental Receptionist Training Course’

Pros

  • Knowledgeable and skilled instructor.
  • Essential and specialised training for dental receptionists
  • Cost-effective training that is nevertheless extensive and interesting.
  • Clear definition of dental-specific concepts

Cons

  • Absence of infographics or visual examples
  • There are no course exams or quizzes.

Pricing: $17.95

What to Look For in a Receptionist Course?

When searching for a receptionist course, consider these key factors to ensure you choose a program that will effectively prepare you for the role:

  • Curriculum Relevance: Ensure the course covers essential receptionist duties such as call handling, customer service, and administrative tasks.
  • Practical Skills: Look for courses that offer hands-on training or simulations to practice real-world scenarios.
  • Instructor Expertise: Choose courses taught by experienced professionals with a background in reception or administrative roles.
  • Certification: Check if the course provides a certificate upon completion, which can enhance your resume.
  • Flexibility: Consider the course format and duration, especially if you need to balance learning with other commitments.
  • Technology Training: Ensure the course includes training on relevant office software and technology used by receptionists.
  • Communication Skills: The course should emphasize the development of strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Customer Service Focus: Since receptionists often serve as the first point of contact, the course should teach effective customer service strategies.

FAQs on Online Receptionist Courses

What Types of Online Receptionist Courses are Available?

Most online receptionist courses are part of undergraduate certificate programs, which can typically be completed within 2-3 semesters.

What Skills can I Expect to Learn in a Receptionist Course?

Courses cover effective communication, listening skills, handling objections, creating a welcoming atmosphere, and building connections with customers.

Are there Specialized Receptionist Courses for Different Industries?

Yes, there are courses tailored for general office settings as well as specific industries like medical, dental, and legal offices.

Do Online Receptionist Courses Offer Practical Training?

Look for courses that include hands-on training or simulations to practice real-world scenarios.

Can I get Certified Through an Online Receptionist Course?

Many courses offer certificates upon completion, which can enhance your resume and professional credibility.

How do I Choose the Best Receptionist Course for me?

Consider factors like curriculum relevance, instructor expertise, course flexibility, and whether the course provides certification.

Are there Courses for Different Experience Levels?

Yes, there are beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses available, catering to various levels of experience.

Summing Up

Online receptionist courses offer a comprehensive and flexible way to gain the necessary skills for a career as a receptionist. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from effective communication and customer service to administrative tasks and industry-specific knowledge. They are designed to cater to different experience levels, from beginners to advanced learners.

Many of these courses offer practical training and certification, enhancing your professional credibility. They also provide the flexibility to learn at your own pace and from any location. Regardless of your age or background, these courses can equip you with the skills to excel in a receptionist role

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