Should I apply, even with my lack of confidence?

Question

I want to apply for a job as a receptionist. The thing is I'm not cute, Im not thin and perky, and I'm not outgoing, so I dont think I could get it..Should I apply anyway, or do they only hire cute & perky people for that kind of job? I have a personality, and Im nice, I'm just shy.

thanks everyone who answered so far. I got some really good feedback, I decided to go turn in the application. Thanks for being so supportive.

Answer 1

It's not your appearance that's the problem, it's your personality. No one wants a shy receptionist. Sorry to be harsh, but I managed many a front desk, and if they were too quiet, they weren't even on my radar. Occasionally, one would slip by (maybe they were outgoing in the interview) and when they got to the front desk they froze. It was the worst. Customers would complain. It's not the best representative for the company. And I never hired by appearance, sometimes not even qualifications, there were always 2 questions I asked myself before sending them to meet with the GM: 1. Are they smart enough to train for this position? 2. Are they a good fit (personality wise) with the image we wish to project?

BUT, you can always pretend you're outgoing, and if you pretend it long enough, you will be. Be friendly, outgoing, and assertive, and you can land that job, even if you're not thin. And work on that confidence, girl! Get a haircut, buy a nice suit for the interview and you will feel and look like a million bucks! You'll get that job in no time.

Answer 2

You absolutely should. Not everyone in this world is cute, or thin, or perky, you know. I personally prefer front desk staff who are efficient, professional, and competent. One of my best receptionsts was a more mature, full-figured woman - she showed up on time, did her job, and had a pleasant phone manner. Compared to the parade of thin, perky airheads who preceded her, she was a breath of fresh air.

People who supervise receptionists will tell you that attendance is critical for this position, so if you are rarely absent, emphasize that in your interview (otherwise somebody has to come in at some ungodly hour to cover the front desk.) Your voice is also important since you will be on the phone a lot - pleasant, professional, good grammar, etc. are key - no "you knows" or gum chewing. If you have clerical/computer skills, that is a plus since many receptionists perform some clerical tasks as well.

Now hold your head up, exude some quiet confidence, and go get 'em!

Answer 3

Getting a job is a numbers game. If you apply for enough jobs you will get the job.

Many receptionist jobs are not pure receptionist jobs. They also require administration and clerical skills (you type documents, enter data, do filing and answer the phone).

At this point I am trying to think of a job that I had where the receptionist if cute and perky....but I really can't.

I think friendly and professional is much more important.

Answer 4

I've never had a "cute, thin and perky" receptionist, and I've been through quite a few of them! LOL. I'd probably find someone like that annoying anyway, but I'm the office curmudgeon.

Go for it! I think being polite, articulate, and efficient is way more important. Good luck!

Answer 5

You should definitely apply.

I sometimes interview people for jobs and i always go for skills and personality. As long as you look smart, who cares if you're not thin - you're not going for a modeling job!

Even if you don't get the job the experience you gain along the way will improve your confidence and help prepare you for the next interview.

Best of luck, and let your personality shine through!

Answer 6

You should ALWAYS have confidence in yourself, no matter what. Tell yourself, I am good enough! I can do ANYTHING I want, and I am going to go and apply for the job, and get it. Don't sit back and let someone else win over your place in the world. You are just as good as any of these little teenie boppers in the world today. Stand up girl, and get on the ball, don't let life pass you by! Go get it girl!

Answer 7

You Don't have to be cute and Perky, Trust me at first you will be shy then you start to know your fellow employees and you becaome more and more comfertable. You should Definantly go for it. Good luck, I hope this helps.

Answer 8

Well.. I had trouble with confidence, but when I did work for a job, it built my confidence and leadership skills. I think a job will build your confidence. Go for it! :o)

Answer 9

Go for it !!!!!