For many salons, having a receptionist is critical to effectively managing a business – and if you’re a salon owner currently doing that job yourself, you know better than anyone just how critical it can be. 

If you’re looking to hire the best nail or hair salon receptionist, you’ll need the right job posting. This article will cover how to craft the perfect salon receptionist job description, from requirements, to skills, to salary disclosures, and even examples for how to format your listing. 

Salon Receptionist Job Summary

So what does a salon receptionist do? Well, it isn’t just answering phones. Salon receptionist job descriptions vary depending on the salon, but typically, the receptionist handles bookings, manages the calendar, reminds clients of their appointments, greets patrons, markets services, and takes care of any other administrative tasks. A receptionist mans the front desk of your salon, making them the first face of the business most customers see when they walk through the door. 

Salon Receptionist Responsibilities 

A nail or hair salon receptionist has plenty of responsibilities that will help streamline operations at your business. Some common salon receptionist duties include: 

Greeting clients

Part of having a nail or hair salon front desk job is greeting clients when they enter the business. Receptionists should be warm and inviting, and make anyone who walks in feel welcome and comfortable. 

Scheduling and booking

Another component to the salon receptionist job description is managing the schedule. For clients who call to book appointments, salon receptionist duties include manually adding those phone appointments to the calendar. Additionally, when salon staff need to update their availability, get someone to cover for them, or take days off, the receptionist is typically the person who updates the calendar and ensures an accurate accounting of everyone’s work days. 

Appointment tracking

Once an appointment is in the books, part of the salon receptionist duties include following up. They may need to update calendar info if clients have to change their salon appointment time, or if your business doesn’t use salon software, they’ll be the one who sends appointment reminders or missed appointment messages to clients. 

Service marketing

Your receptionist doesn’t have to be a professional salesman, but it can be helpful for them to suggest additional services or products to the clients. They can remind clients of perks like exclusive membership deals or loyalty rewards, or offer limited-time bundles or other add-ons that can enhance their service experience. 

Organization

As part of the nail or hair salon front desk job, the receptionist is responsible for keeping their workspace clean. Since it’s one of the first elements customers see when they walk in, it’s important the receptionist maintains an organized, tidy work environment. 

Handling deliveries

When fresh products and other inventory arrive, it’s the receptionist’s job to accept packages and sign for them (and also handle returns when necessary). For some salons, the receptionist may also be responsible for tracking new inventory and restocking products. 

Processing payments

At the end of the client’s salon session, they typically checkout at the front desk. Salon receptionists often process payments for clients, issue refunds, or handle any other payment issues. They may also need to work a cash register if you have one. 

Example Template

Salon Receptionist Duties:

• Greet and welcome clients to the salon, offer refreshments
• Manage the staff schedule
• Handle appointment booking, reminders, and follow-ups for clients
• Answer phones, emails, and social media DMs
• Upsell relevant services such as products, memberships, and other add-ons 
• Keep the front desk and waiting area clean, tidy, and organized
• Take care of customer service complaints, questions, or feedback
• Process payments via our card-reader software, as well as the cash register

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Skills for a Salon Receptionist

Working as a salon receptionist requires several skills. Below is a list of skills you may want to list in your salon receptionist job description. 

Communication skills

Salon receptionists should possess adequate verbal, written, and listening skills in order to communicate effectively with you, the clients, and other personnel. They must know how to articulate information clearly, as well as accurately record any feedback or queries the clients have. 

Customer service skills

Reception is not for the meek! As the main point of contact for the business, it’s important your receptionist treats each client with respect and hears their concerns when they have them. Conflict can be stressful, but a receptionist must have patience and empathy, especially when dealing with upset clients. 

Technological adaptability 

Your salon receptionist should be familiar with any CRM software or programs you use to help streamline your day-to-day operations (which is why it’s helpful to invest in software with a user-friendly interface). Software programs can help manage calendars, bookings, and other client information, which means the person filling the role should have a basic understanding of computer programs – or at the very least, a willingness to learn. 

Problem-solving skills

Is your software down? Was there an accidental double-booking? Is something wrong with this week’s inventory shipment? You need a receptionist who is resourceful and proactive about the goings-on of your business so you and the rest of the staff can maintain focus on client services. 

Time management skills

A great receptionist uses their time effectively and ensures they’re not wasting any on simple tasks or non-work related activities – or worse – not putting enough time into the things that matter. You want someone who is self-sufficient and knows how to manage their time so that all their tasks are done efficiently. 

Example Template

Salon Receptionist Skills: 

• Personable and communicative
• Good customer service etiquette
• Technologically capable
• Excellent problem-solver
• Resourceful and self-sufficient
• Possesses basic math skills 
• Strong attention to detail 
• Thrives under pressure

Salon Receptionist Requirements

Another element to add to your job description is a list of qualifications for your desired candidate. 

A solid education

Depending on what you’re looking for, you may want to require a high school diploma or equivalent education, such as a GED. 

Prior experience

If you’re looking for an experienced receptionist, mention prior experience in a customer service role as a requirement. You may also want to mention a preference for previous experience in a retail or salon setting as well. However, if you’re open to hiring a newbie, you can list this as a bonus rather than a requirement. 

Competent multitasker 

Receptionists must possess the ability to prioritize (and juggle) multiple tasks, usually simultaneously, while consistently meeting deadlines. They have to carry out their duties with competence and confidence, all while managing their time effectively. 

Basic computer knowledge

Your receptionist role may require learning software, phone systems, or other digital equipment (like card-readers or inventory scanners). 

Self-motivated

You want a receptionist who can proactively take control of their own tasks without being told what to do. A self-motivated receptionist is independent and reliable, and can always stay on top of their responsibilities. 

Passion for the beauty industry

While it’s not completely necessary, it’s nice to have a salon receptionist who actually cares about the industry and is eager to learn and grow within it. It also makes it more likely that the person who fills the role will care about their job and have higher levels of engagement. 

Example Template

Salon Receptionist Requirements:

• Earned high school diploma or equivalent
• Has minimum 2+ years experience working in a retail or salon environment
• Has familiarity with computers and quick learner of software
• Can sort, organize, and keep accurate counts of items
• Is a people-person, not afraid to pick up a phone
• Self-motivated, independent 
• Passion for the beauty industry a plus

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Salon Receptionist Salary and Working Conditions

Salon salary ranges vary by state and levels of experience, but generally (in the United States), most salon receptionists can expect to earn anywhere between $15 and $20 per hour, which is between $31,000 and $41,000 annually. This value will also depend on the employment status of the receptionist, as part-time or seasonal workers will not earn as much as full-time employees. Mention if the role comes with any benefits or perks, such as commission, bonuses, or flexible working hours. 

You should also note any other details about the role or even the salon environment itself to help screen through candidates. For example, include the hours of operation, any physical disclaimers about the role (i.e., the job may require lifting heavy boxes), and if there’s weekend/evening work. 

Example Template

Salary: 

• $37,000/year (commensurate with experience and prior training)
• Paid time off
• Medical benefits

Working conditions: 

• Open Monday - Sunday between 10am and 6pm
• Flexible shifts
• Will require lifting packages <50lbs
• Lots of footwork, counting, and pleasant chatter
• Must love loud music

Ready to Grow Your Team? Try GlossGenius Today

Hiring the right team is imperative for your salon business’ success. It’s important to find motivated individuals who are willing to put in the work and care necessary to ensure your salon runs flawlessly. 

GlossGenius is an all-in-one software tool that allows salon business owners to seamlessly manage their day and build their dream teams. With tools like Team & Staff and Payroll, you can pay your employees, view and update your staff schedules with ease, track timesheets, and adjust commissions. Genius Loans also make it simple to get financing up to $250,000 so you can grow your business the way you want to. 

Try GlossGenius today to get a 14-day free trial!

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