Many photographers work as solopreneurs or run a small business. As a result, they frequently believe that hiring a receptionist or other support staff is out of their price range. Even still, they are some of the experts that require the greatest assistance. So, what should a stressed, overworked photographer do?
Hire a receptionist.
Hiring a receptionist for your business can, believe it or not, be rather affordable. It only takes a little study and forethought. Many receptionists, for example, are prepared to work part-time or for a lesser pay than if you hired them full-time. And, if you can afford it, it may be worthwhile to hire a receptionist on a part-time or freelance basis so that they may continue to perform their full-time job while simultaneously working at your company’s front desk.
Professional receptionists are extremely skilled at their jobs. They greet and arrange clients, handle incoming calls, and maintain track of appointments. All of this frees up time for you to focus on what you do best: take images.
How to Hire a Receptionist
Hiring a receptionist can be one of the most important decisions you make for your business. Your receptionist is your potential client’s first point of interaction with your business and, therefore, must be prepared for the role. A lot of thought must go into the hiring process. Here are some practical ways to go about it.
1. Determine Your Needs
Before you begin your search, decide on the skills and personality traits that your ideal receptionist should possess. For example, if you often photograph business executives, your receptionist should have a calm and level-headed demeanour. Or, if you typically shoot weddings or events, an outgoing personality may be necessary.
2. Create a Job Description
Use your job description to evaluate prospective candidates. It should include the skills and traits you’ve determined to be essential for the role. List your receptionist’s primary responsibilities and any specific requirements. Your requirements should be written in a manner that will appeal to the right candidates.
3. Advertise
If you are planning to hire a receptionist, don’t be afraid to post a job listing. Make sure that your ad has all the relevant details. Be as specific as possible. You may want to hire a professional to help you write this information.
4. Your Network
Another way to find receptionists is to ask other photographers if they know of anyone. If you know other photographers in your area, ask if they know anyone who might be available and if they’d be willing to connect you with that person.
To the best of your ability, make sure you treat your receptionist the same way you would any employee. Do that, and you’ll likely have a great receptionist and well-supported business.
5. Consider Hiring a Virtual Receptionist Instead
If you have a photography business and cannot afford to hire a full-time receptionist, you may want to consider hiring a virtual receptionist.
The benefits of choosing a virtual receptionist over a traditional receptionist can be numerous. For starters, your business will be able to save money by hiring a virtual receptionist. The receptionist will be hired individually or on a per-hour basis. This means that the receptionist can work off-site, saving your business thousands of dollars in office space.
Another benefit of hiring a virtual receptionist is that you can hire a specific employee that will focus on your business’ needs. These virtual receptionists are often highly educated, having been trained in business and other related fields.
Finally, you’ll find that a virtual receptionist is a great way to save money on your overall business expenses without sacrificing quality.
Key Takeaways
To sum it up, hiring a receptionist can be a great way to save time and money. Make sure to find the right one, though – hiring the wrong one can end up costing your business more in the long run.
Are you looking for a virtual receptionist? 24H Virtual offers the best 24/7 call center and virtual receptionist services for any business across North America & Europe. Get in touch with us today!
