History of the receptionist profession
From porter to modern guest service
As a receptionist you are the company's face to the outside world. It is a role with long traditions — for as long as people have travelled and visited places there has been a need for someone to receive them.
§The history of hospitality
Inns and taverns early on received travellers with food and lodging. With the rise of hotels came the need for a proper reception where guests could check in, get information and help.
| Period | Development. |
|---|---|
| Earlier times | Inns and lodges receive travellers |
| 1800-tallet | Hotels emerge with proper receptions |
| 1900-tallet | Professional guest service and fixed routines |
| Sen 1900-tal | IT and phone systems change work at reception. |
| Modern times | Digital booking systems and online check-in |
| Today | Receptionist as a vocational education with focus on service and systems |
§From keys to screens
Where you once had to write down guests by hand and hand over keys across the counter, you today work with booking systems, key cards and digital communication. But the core is still the same: making the guest feel welcome.
§The craft today.
Receptionists are found in hotels, but also in many other companies. You combine service, administration and coordination – and you are often the first and last person the guest meets.
“You only get a first impression once — and in the reception it is your responsibility.”