Today is National Receptionists Day. The day was first recognized in 1991 when the National Receptionists Association decided these wonderful people should be recognized. “What makes them so special?” you ask. Read a portion of a letter written by Beverly Catalano, a receptionist for a large corporation.
“Several years ago, when someone asked what kind of work I did, I would sheepishly reply, “Oh, I’m just a receptionist!” I emphasized just, because of the gum chewing, nail filing types you often see portraying the receptionist. Ten years down that road I now hold my head high and proudly announce my vocation.
“Not too long ago, our Vice President of finance approached my desk, asking for his Wall Street Journal. As I gave it to him, I assured him that our stock was up a quarter percent, and I was sure now that I would be receiving my long impending pay increase! After all, where could he hire a psychologist, a detective, a diplomat, an entertainer, and a communication expert, all at a little above minimum wage! He politely smiled, nodded and went on his way!
“There are almost four thousand people, all over the world employed by the company I work for. At least two or three times a day I get asked, “Have you seen John Doe? Do you know where he is, or if he’s in? Why isn’t he answering my voice mail messages?”
“Oh, Voice Mail! What a wonderful business tool – if used correctly! But while Suzie Sunshine (John Doe’s assistant) is out visiting her neighbor in the next cubicle, or powdering her nose, Miss Receptionist/Psychologist, must find a way to entertain Mr. Vendor/Customer, until she chooses to go back to her desk and pick up her phone! “Funny, (says Mr. Vendor) I have left so many messages on her voice mail, and it took her almost a week for her to get back to me!” “So sorry, I know she is very busy. If she had the opportunity, I’m sure she would have answered you right away”, I replied as Ms. Receptionist/Diplomat! …
“To all of you receptionists I want to say that you are probably one of the most important people in your organization. You represent the entire company. What you say and how you say it could ultimately make or break a sale…
“There are many variances to your job, and many questions with no pat answers…The most important thing is, no matter how you feel, or what’s on your mind, everyone who enters your lobby, visitor or employee, needs a cheerful hello and a good morning or good afternoon. Your attitude sets the mood, and relaxes your visitors. The tone of your voice on the phone, or in person welcomes the caller to your company. Put your visitors at ease.
“Remember that you are the gateway to your company. Your visitors’ impression is a lasting one. Make that impression a positive one.”1
For many years, Miss Dottie was our “receptionist.” She served well in that position and emulated the things Ms. Catalano suggested. Now, Miss Jill is filling that spot and continuing the pattern of excellence. But I would like for us to think about this from a different perspective.
ALL of us serve as the Lord’s receptionists at First Baptist. The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:18-20, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (19) And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, (20) For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”
This is speaking in the context of sharing the Gospel. However, we don’t know who needs to hear the Gospel. Therefore, our “receptionist” hat must always be on. We must be Christ’s ambassadors, representing Him well.
As people come to church on Sunday, the door greeters are the first receptionists. The people talking in the foyer serve as receptionists. The ladies at the Welcome Center are receptionists. The folks already seated in the auditorium are receptionists. How welcoming are we to those around us? How quick are we to greet, serve, MOVE OVER, or welcome someone to sit with us? That’s what a receptionist does. They meet the immediate need.
We must never assume anyone is saved. God has dealt with the hearts of church members as well as the hearts of a stranger from off the street. Those who are genuinely born again need to represent Jesus well wherever we may be.
Remember that you only get one opportunity to make that first impression. Make sure that it counts for the Lord.
Images are taken from https://pixabay.com/, https://www.pexels.com/, or https://unsplash.com/images or created in Windows Copilot. According to the websites, they are Royalty Free and free to be used for our purposes.
1https://salesandmanagement.com/from-a-receptionists-point-of-view/