Receptionist of great stature
She's the face and voice of Caxton West Rand. Meet Ida Erasmus, with whom you have probably spoken at least once.
Remembering more than 50 names and extension codes, greeting even the meanest of clients with ease and answering hundreds of phone calls every day – life as a receptionist can be tough.
Ida Erasmus, Caxton West Rand‘s trusty receptionist of 13 years, knows just how to deal with the responsibility of being the face of the branch.
“Keep calm. To keep calm means you need to focus,” she said.
On 11 May, Ida, like many other receptionists, was honoured. National Receptionists’ Day was created to give recognition to receptionists and the valuable contributions they make to the companies they work for. This day had the News wondering why Ida is such a unique receptionist, and her calm and collected attitude was the first quality to come to mind. A gentle smile and clear speech are recognised as Ida’s traits. Very rarely, arguably never, will you see her without it.
“I still enjoy my job. I still get stressed, but to remain calm is key,” she said.
Ida said what she enjoys the most about her job is, yes, the occasional friendly face that pops in to say “Hi!”.
“What makes my job worthwhile is the friendly comments I get about the good service I deliver,” she said.
No-one who has met Ida would doubt her friendly service. When asked if she had ever lost her cool with a client in 13 years, even a little, she could not even remember.
“The people in Krugersdorp are unique. They are always willing to help another in need and they will go out of their way to do so,” she said.
But life as a receptionist is not always as sunny, as many will know. The most difficult thing about Ida’s job, she said, is being faced first with those living in poverty.
“It’s hard for me to see someone suffering. I then realise how thankful I should be to even have a job.”
Do you know someone at your workplace who never seems to have a bad day? Someone you can give a hug to and feel much better? Tell us about him or her in the comments below.
Also read:
• Be grateful for your receptionist
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at krugersdorpnews@caxton.co.za or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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