What Does a Receptionist Do Compared to an Administrative Assistant?

Receptionist Responsibilities
A receptionist is the front-facing professional who creates the first impression of your business. Their core responsibilities revolve around managing the front desk operations and facilitating communication between visitors, clients, and internal staff.
Typical duties of a receptionist include:
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Greeting and directing visitors.
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Answering and forwarding incoming phone calls.
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Managing the reception area to ensure it is tidy and welcoming.
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Handling mail, couriers, and deliveries.
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Scheduling appointments or meetings.
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Providing general information to guests or clients.
Receptionists play a vital customer service role and ensure that every visitor or caller receives a professional and helpful experience.
Administrative Assistant Duties
An administrative assistant handles a broader scope of internal tasks that keep a business running efficiently. Their role is more detail-oriented and typically includes working directly with management or teams to support daily operations.
Common duties of an administrative assistant:
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Managing calendars and scheduling meetings.
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Preparing reports, emails, and business correspondence.
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Organizing and maintaining files and records.
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Handling data entry and document management.
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Coordinating internal communications and follow-ups.
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Assisting with travel arrangements and event planning.
While they may answer phones or greet guests occasionally, administrative assistants are primarily focused on internal workflow, offering deeper administrative and organizational support.
