For nearly six years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic I have been working in New York City as a receptionist, a position that is typically unneeded when a company switches to working from home. As for me, my role has been reinvented during this time. I have became something more like the manager of our virtual office.
Most office staff who have shifted to working from home have the same duties they had in the office, just without the commute. The everyday routines I once had have been drastically altered by our new way of working from home amid COVID-19.
On a regular (pre-pandemic) day, I arrived early at the office to make sure everything was in place for the work day to begin. Half of my responsibilities required me to be in the office. My work was varied. I greeted people, restocked the kitchen and office supplies, set up catering and attended to quick fixes.
All my other responsibilities take place on my computer. These duties include responding to emails, coordinating with caterers and booking meetings, to name a few.
My colleagues have nicknamed me the Jill-of-all-trades because I now wear all so many new hats during this unprecedented time. We now work from home, and I no longer work at the front desk, but these are some of the new responsibilities that I’ve taken on during the pandemic.
Becoming an extension of IT.
Since the switch to working from home, I have been helping to ensure digital security and monitoring Zoom video calls for a seamless process.
With frequent use of the Zoom platform, there have been instances that have required us to modify our procedures to be hyper-vigilant of cyber security. With a greater need for these security measures, I have learned and assisted with navigating the software and accommodating what works best for our agency.
Training in accounting assignments.
I’m also learning new tools and methods on Microsoft Excel for our billing process and accounting division. These tasks require attention to detail and the ability to properly organize information. This multi-step process gives me the opportunity to build my skills in paying close attention-to-detail and to fine-tune my communication skills.
Taking notes during meetings.
I take notes during our staff video meetings, which helps me stay up-to-date and learn more about our clients and agency functions. At the same time, I get the chance to enhance my writing and listening skills.
Communicating in a new way.
I’m usually the person who greets visitors in the office. Colleagues stop by my desk for candy and casual conversations. These encounters allow us to take breaks during the day. Now in our new reality, I catch up with coworkers on our Slack messaging platform or group video chats, which keep me and my colleagues connected in a new way.
There were many unexpected changes for my role, but working remotely created new opportunities. I’ve learned that the responsibilities of a general receptionist can be adjusted to the needs of the business. The experience and skills each receptionist possesses can be applied in so many unique ways. This role is a great way to get your foot in the door by learning about any department of a business.
This role has taught me that adaptability is one of the most important skills to have. What’s next in my ever evolving role? Only time will tell.
