A postcard in the local post office advertising for a part-time receptionist post caught my eye, so I decided to apply. In my visits to the Clinic for Physio treatment, I had always found the staff very friendly and helpful.
That was 6 years ago, so what’s so special about the job:-
1. The customers.
They can make you laugh, be sad and happy with their varied tales. You can hear about their travels abroad, their ailments, grandchildren being born. You name it, we’ve probably heard it. You really get to know the customers by taking time to listen and you might be the only person they have seen that day.
2. Representing the Clinic as a 1st point of contact.
Making someone feel at ease in a new environment is really important. It never ceases to amaze me how nervous people can feel on their 1st visit. Getting it right on that first visit, can ensure the Clinic is recommended to friends, neighbours and colleagues.
3. Communication .
Ensuring staff receive information from patients, dealing with the varied emails received, answering the phone, scheduling appointments to suit customer’s needs and leaving memos for other receptionists.
4. Learning new skills.
Mastering our patient computer software and its foibles ! Enhancing my knowledge of aspects of Podiatry and Physiotherapy to help customers. This goes a long way to keeping the “grey matter” ticking.
5. Being part of a great team.
Helping each other daily : being there for each other and listening when life decides to throw a “curved ball”. Having experienced this, I know, all too well, how this helped me. Working in a relaxed and happy environment.
So, 6 years gone and hopefully, more to come. I’m not ready for full retirement yet. We’ve been through covid, had to adapt our working practices but have come out the other side. It’s been a joy for me to work at the Clinic.