Many hold the lawyers in the law firm in high esteem, but what about the unsung heroes– the receptionists?
Without receptionists, lawyers lose time to tedium like answering phone calls, small talk, recording personal information into CRM during new client intake– the list goes on. These tasks are essential to keep the business running smoothly, but it’s not what your lawyers went to law school to do.
Let them focus on billable tasks by giving them the support they need.
What Is a Virtual Receptionist?
Many physical firms have an actual receptionist seated in the lobby. They are the first point of contact for all visitors, clients and otherwise. The receptionist greets everyone with a smile, provides information to help them get to where they’re going, and provides them with pertinent forms that must be filled out in advance.
Receptionists also manage phone calls and email inquiries, providing information, setting appointments, collecting information from new clients, and more. They are responsible for all front-of-house operations and, in many cases, all administrative functions as well.
A virtual receptionist does all this, but they are not physically on-site. While they are not in the office physically to actually greet in-person clients, they completely handle all phone and email communications so your lawyers can focus on the law, as they should.
Tips for Selecting a Great Receptionist
Virtual receptionists are often unseen, so their appearance is irrelevant. Nonetheless, you want someone who is a professional through and through. Since they will be the first point of contact for your clients, you want someone who is friendly, personable, detail-oriented, and thorough. You want someone with a good understanding of how to take a client, onboard them properly, and direct them accordingly.
In addition to the right personality, you’ll want someone with experience working in firms. It’s okay if they have worked in adjacent industries. For example, a receptionist for a Fortune 500 marketing firm will still understand the needs of a law firm, but they will need some training compared to someone with specific law firm experience.
Lastly, a virtual receptionist will need to understand the technology required to perform the job reliably. Traditional receptionists who have not used this kind of technology before might require some training, but those familiar with WFH positions and the technological demands will be more out-of-box ready for your firm.
The combination of a winning personality, applicable experience, and technological affinity is the surefire recipe for an excellent virtual receptionist.
Call Amata Law Office Suites
It could take time finding the right candidate, and your firm will operate below peak efficiency in the meantime.
Why waste time searching for a great receptionist when Amata Law Office Suites already did the legwork? As the premier law office support services provider in the Chicago area, they have a deep talent pool of viable candidates who will add immediate value to your firm today.
Call Amata Law Office Suites now for more information.
