What Does a Front Office Manager Do?

Front office managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a company’s front desk. They commonly manage a team of receptionists, clerks, and other support staff who handle everything from answering phones to greeting visitors to handling mail and deliveries.

Front office managers may also be tasked with managing the flow of people into and out of the building. This might include ensuring that all visitors have proper identification before entering the building or directing employees where to park their cars.

Front Office Manager Job Duties

A front office manager typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Assigning tasks to individual staff members based on their job description and skillset
• Managing administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, answering phones and greeting clients
• Managing and maintaining employee records, including hiring, terminating, and payroll functions
• Overseeing the implementation of new policies and procedures to ensure the organization’s compliance with industry standards
• Managing office facilities, equipment, and supplies to ensure they meet company standards
• Managing the office budget by analyzing costs and checking expenditures to ensure that they are reasonable and within budget guidelines
• Coordinating company events such as meetings, seminars, conferences, or trade shows with vendors and clients
• Managing the flow of paperwork within the office by overseeing clerical staff, who handle data entry and filing tasks
• Managing employee morale by addressing any issues that may arise and promoting teamwork within the office environment

Front Office Manager Salary & Outlook

Front office managers’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the size and industry of the company. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of bonuses.

• Median Annual Salary: $41,500 ($19.95/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $84,500 ($40.63/hour)

The employment of front office managers is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

Employment growth will be driven by the continued expansion and consolidation of hotels, which will require more front office managers to oversee operations. However, automation may limit the need for some front office managers as hotels automate some tasks currently performed by these workers.

Related: Front Office Manager Interview Questions and Answers

Front Office Manager Job Requirements

A front office manager typically needs to have the following qualifications:

Education: Front office managers are typically required to have at least a bachelor’s degree. Some of the most common majors for front office managers are business administration, hospitality management and psychology.

Training & Experience: Front office managers typically receive on-the-job training in their role. This training may include shadowing a current front office manager or another member of the management team. Front office managers who have previous experience in a similar role may transfer their knowledge to their new role. Front office managers may also receive training in the company’s policies and procedures.

Certifications & Licenses: Certifications allow you to prove your skills and qualifications to current and potential employers. Front office managers can earn certifications to gain more theoretical knowledge of their responsibilities, test their professional skills and further advance their career.

Front Office Manager Skills

Front office managers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Communication: Communication is the act of conveying information through a variety of methods. As an office manager, you may be responsible for communicating with a variety of people, including customers, coworkers and managers. Strong communication skills can help you convey information clearly and effectively.

Leadership: Front office managers are responsible for the smooth operation of a company’s front desk. This position requires strong leadership skills to ensure your team is working together to meet customer needs. You can use your leadership skills to motivate your team, delegate tasks and encourage professional development.

Organization: Organization is a crucial skill for an office manager, as it allows you to complete your work on time and keep your workspace free of clutter. As an office manager, you may be responsible for managing multiple calendars, delegating tasks and keeping track of employee records. Being organized can help you complete your work efficiently and keep your office running smoothly.

Customer service: Customer service is the ability to understand and meet the needs of customers. As an office manager, you may not be the person who directly interacts with customers, but you still need to be able to provide guidance to your team members. Providing guidance and support to your team members is an example of how you can use customer service skills as an office manager.

Problem-solving: As an office manager, you may be responsible for handling customer complaints, addressing employee issues and resolving workplace conflicts. Being able to solve problems is an essential skill for an office manager, as it can help you maintain a positive work environment and keep your team members happy and engaged.

Front Office Manager Work Environment

Front office managers work in a variety of settings, including hotels, resorts, corporate offices, and medical facilities. They typically work full time, and some may work more than 40 hours per week to accommodate the needs of their facility. Many front office managers work early morning, evening, and weekend shifts. Some front office managers may be required to travel to multiple locations. The work environment is usually fast-paced and deadline-oriented. Front office managers must be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and be able to work well under pressure.

Front Office Manager Trends

Here are three trends influencing how front office managers work. Front office managers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Rise of the Customer Experience

The customer experience is becoming increasingly important in today’s economy, as businesses are realizing that it is a key factor in determining whether or not a customer will return.

Front office managers can play an important role in creating a positive customer experience by ensuring that all aspects of the customer interaction are well-managed and executed flawlessly. This includes everything from greeting customers to providing excellent service throughout their stay.

More Focus on Employee Engagement

Employee engagement is becoming a more important focus for businesses as they realize the benefits of having employees who are passionate about what they do.

Front office managers can capitalize on this trend by developing strategies to engage their employees and make them feel valued. This may include offering perks such as flexible work schedules or team outings. In addition, front office managers should be sure to communicate with their employees about the goals of the company and how their individual contributions help achieve those goals.

Greater Use of Technology

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the workplace, and this is especially true for the front office manager.

As technology becomes more prevalent, front office managers will need to learn how to use it effectively in order to manage their teams and communicate with clients. This includes learning how to use software like CRM systems and email marketing tools.

How to Become a Front Office Manager

A front office manager career can be a great way to start your career in the hospitality industry. As a front office manager, you’ll be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the reception area and customer service team. This includes answering phones, greeting guests, handling reservations, and providing general information about the hotel.

To be successful in this role, you need to have excellent communication skills and be able to handle difficult situations calmly and professionally. You should also be comfortable working with people from all walks of life.

Advancement Prospects

Front office managers typically start out in entry-level positions, such as receptionist or administrative assistant. With experience, they may move up to positions such as office manager or executive assistant. Those who have a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience may be promoted to front office manager.

As front office manager, you would be responsible for the overall operation of the front office, including supervising the work of the receptionists, secretaries, and other support staff. You would also be responsible for ensuring that the front office runs smoothly and efficiently. In some organizations, the front office manager may also be responsible for marketing and public relations.

Front Office Manager Job Description Example

The front office manager is responsible for the overall operation of the front office, including but not limited to, guest registration, reservations, concierge services, and telephone operations. He/she will also provide leadership and support to the front office team while promoting a positive and professional working environment.

The ideal candidate will have experience in a similar role, preferably in a hotel or hospitality setting. They will have excellent customer service skills, be highly organized and efficient, and have the ability to multitask and work well under pressure. They will also be responsible for ensuring that all front office team members are properly trained and have the necessary resources to perform their duties.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Ensure that all guests receive prompt, professional, and courteous service
• Resolve guest complaints, ensuring guest satisfaction
• Monitor and maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and organization of all food storage areas, including walk-in coolers, freezers, cupboards, and shelves
• Prepare requisitions for supplies and equipment needed to maintain proper stock levels
• Train new front office employees in job duties, policies, and procedures
• Schedule employee shifts to ensure adequate coverage while maximizing labor efficiency and minimizing overtime
• Process payroll time sheets and submit to accounting department for approval
• Balance daily cash receipts and prepare bank deposits
• Review monthly financial statements and compare to budgeted revenue and expenses
• Analyze variances and take corrective action as necessary to improve profitability
• Develop and implement marketing plans to increase business volume
• Negotiate vendor contracts for services such as laundry, valet, and shuttle transportation

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Proven experience as front office manager or similar role
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities
• Customer service orientation
• Problem-solving aptitude
• High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Previous experience in a hotel or hospitality setting
• Working knowledge of office equipment and software, including Microsoft Office Suite
• Familiarity with property management systems
• Ability to type at least 60 words per minute
• Bilingualism