Front Desk Agent - The Markham Hotel

Lodging and Leisure Investments•Gulfport, MS

9h•Onsite

About The Position

The Front Desk Agent is responsible for greeting, registering, and checking in guests upon arrival and providing them with any necessary assistance during their stay. This role involves managing reservations, handling guest inquiries, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring an exceptional guest experience. Front Desk Agents are the first point of contact for guests and play a key role in creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent (required).
Previous experience in a customer service or hospitality role (preferred).
Experience using hotel management software (e.g., Opera) and point-of-sale (POS) systems (preferred).
Familiarity with handling cash, credit cards, and processing payments.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with guests and coworkers.
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to multitask.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment.
Problem-solving skills to address guest concerns and resolve issues efficiently.
Knowledge of hotel amenities, local attractions, and services available to guests.
Ability to stand for extended periods and move around the front desk area.
Ability to lift and carry small packages or luggage up to 25 pounds.
Ability to work at a fast pace, especially during peak check-in and check-out times.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Hospitality, Business, or related field (preferred).

Responsibilities

Greet guests upon arrival in a friendly and professional manner.
Verify and process guest reservations, ensuring all details are correct.
Assign rooms, provide room keys, and explain hotel amenities and services.
Handle guest check-out, ensuring all charges are accurate and payments are processed.
Assist with any special requests or accommodations during the check-in/check-out process.
Answer phone calls and respond to guest inquiries, providing accurate information about hotel services, amenities, and local attractions.
Address guest concerns or complaints promptly and professionally, ensuring resolution to their satisfaction.
Assist with arrangements such as transportation, restaurant reservations, or booking tours.
Communicate guest preferences or requests to other departments (e.g., housekeeping, maintenance).
Manage reservations, ensuring all guest details are accurately recorded in the system.
Process and confirm room bookings, making adjustments to reservations as necessary.
Assist in overbooking situations and manage guest room availability to maximize occupancy.
Process payments for room charges, incidental charges, and other guest services, using the hotel’s point-of-sale (POS) system.
Handle cash, credit card, and other forms of payment in accordance with hotel policies.
Ensure accurate billing and maintain a well-organized cash drawer and financial records.
Prepare and distribute guest folios (itemized statements of charges) at check-out.
Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the front desk area and lobby, ensuring it is presentable and welcoming.
Monitor guest traffic and handle peak times efficiently to minimize wait times.
Assist with guest luggage and provide directions or information about hotel facilities and the local area.
Follow hotel security protocols and ensure guest safety, including monitoring access to guest floors and handling emergency situations as needed.
Maintain confidentiality of guest information in compliance with hotel policies and data protection laws.
Report any suspicious behavior or security concerns to management or appropriate personnel.
Work closely with housekeeping, maintenance, and management to ensure smooth operations and guest satisfaction.
Communicate guest requests or issues to relevant departments in a timely manner.
Assist in training new front desk staff or interns as needed.
Assist with administrative tasks, such as filing, data entry, or preparing reports.
Participate in hotel meetings and contribute to discussions on improving guest service and operational efficiency.
Assist in special hotel events, promotions, or group bookings.