When preparing for a job interview, especially for a Receptionist position at Anchor Care Homes, it is vital to understand the importance of this role within the organisation. A Receptionist is often the first point of contact for residents, visitors, healthcare professionals, and staff. You are the welcoming face of Anchor Care Homes, ensuring every interaction is professional, empathetic, and efficient.
Job description and salary
The Receptionist at Anchor Care Homes is responsible for managing the front desk, greeting visitors, handling calls, scheduling, maintaining records, and supporting care home management with administrative tasks. The role requires excellent communication, organisational skills, and a caring, professional manner. On average, Receptionists at Anchor Care Homes in the UK can expect a salary of between £20,000 and £24,000 per year depending on experience and location, alongside benefits such as pension contributions and employee wellbeing support.
As an interview coach with over 25 years of experience, I’ve helped thousands of candidates prepare for roles just like this. Below, I’ll walk you through 25 Receptionist interview questions and answers, using proven techniques like the STAR model, along with guidance on job interview preparation, common pitfalls, and what to say at the end of your interview.
Why Interview Preparation Matters
Preparation builds confidence. When you know how to answer competency-based questions, frame your experiences with clarity, and understand what employers like Anchor Care Homes value, you set yourself apart from the competition. Using interview coaching online or one-to-one sessions can give you an added advantage.
25 Receptionist Interview Questions and Answers at Anchor Care Homes
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
This is often an opening icebreaker. Keep your answer professional, relevant, and positive.
Sample Answer: “I have over three years’ experience working in front-of-house roles, where I developed strong communication and organisational skills. I particularly enjoy working in environments where I can provide a warm, welcoming experience, which is why I am excited about this opportunity with Anchor Care Homes.”
2. Why do you want to work as a Receptionist at Anchor Care Homes?
Employers want to see alignment with their values.
Sample Answer: “I admire Anchor Care Homes’ commitment to providing dignity and respect to residents. I want to contribute to that by being a welcoming presence for visitors and supporting the smooth running of the home.”
3. What do you understand about the role of a Receptionist in a care home setting?
Show that you understand it’s not just about admin but also about empathy.
Sample Answer: “It’s about creating a professional and caring first impression. The Receptionist ensures the home runs smoothly by managing calls, welcoming visitors, maintaining records, and providing support to staff and residents when needed.”
4. How do you handle a busy front desk with multiple tasks happening at once?
Sample Answer (STAR):
Situation: “In my last role, I often managed incoming calls while greeting visitors.”
Task: “I had to ensure everyone felt attended to while keeping admin tasks accurate.”
Action: “I used prioritisation techniques, remained calm, and politely asked visitors or callers for a moment while completing urgent requests.”
Result: “This ensured no one felt ignored, and I was consistently praised for professionalism.”
5. How would you deal with a distressed relative of a resident?
Sample Answer: “I would listen attentively, remain calm, show empathy, and reassure them that their concerns would be addressed by the appropriate staff. Then I’d ensure the care manager was made aware immediately.”
6. Can you give an example of excellent customer service you provided in the past?
Use STAR again. Employers love clear, real examples.
7. How do you maintain confidentiality in your work?
Emphasise GDPR knowledge and professional discretion.
8. What computer systems are you comfortable using?
Mention MS Office, booking systems, and willingness to learn Anchor’s specific software.
9. How do you stay organised when dealing with multiple tasks?
Demonstrate diary management, checklists, or digital scheduling.
10. Can you describe a time you dealt with a challenging visitor or customer?
Show professionalism, patience, and problem-solving.
11. Why should we hire you over other candidates?
Sample Answer: “I combine strong administration skills with a caring, approachable nature. I know that being the face of Anchor Care Homes means more than just answering phones—it’s about building trust and confidence from the first interaction.”
12. How would you prioritise tasks if you had to choose between answering a call, greeting a visitor, and helping a staff member?
Employers look for logic and fairness.
13. Tell us about a time you worked as part of a team.
Highlight collaboration and support.
14. How do you handle pressure and stress in the workplace?
Demonstrate resilience, calmness, and solutions.
15. What do you know about Anchor Care Homes as a company?
Always research before the interview—mention values, services, and reputation.
16. How do you ensure accuracy when inputting data?
Talk about double-checking, attention to detail, and accountability.
17. Can you give an example of when you improved a process or suggested a better way of working?
Show initiative and problem-solving.
18. What does good communication mean to you in a Receptionist role?
Clarity, empathy, professionalism.
19. How would you greet a visitor who arrives without an appointment?
Stay friendly and helpful while following procedures.
20. Tell me about a time you had to meet a deadline under pressure.
STAR example required.
21. What steps would you take if you noticed a safety issue in the reception area?
Show responsibility and awareness of safeguarding.
22. How do you ensure residents and their families feel welcome when they arrive?
Smile, polite conversation, attentive service.
23. How do you handle repetitive tasks without losing focus?
Mention motivation and consistency.
24. What motivates you in this role?
Helping others, being the first point of contact, supporting a caring environment.
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Always have two or three thoughtful questions ready, such as:
“How do you see the role of Receptionist contributing to the success of Anchor Care Homes?”
“What training opportunities are available for development in this position?”
“Can you describe the team culture here?”
Competency-based interview questions and the STAR model
Anchor Care Homes, like many employers, often uses competency-based questions. The STAR model is your best tool here:
Situation – briefly describe the context.
Task – explain your responsibility.
Action – describe the steps you took.
Result – share the outcome, ideally with a positive result or learning experience.
Practice using STAR in advance as part of your job interview preparation.
Do’s and Don’ts for Your Receptionist Interview
Do’s
Research Anchor Care Homes thoroughly.
Dress smartly and professionally.
Use STAR when answering competency questions.
Smile, make eye contact, and demonstrate warmth.
Prepare at least two ending questions.
Don’ts
Don’t speak negatively about past employers.
Don’t arrive late—always plan ahead.
Don’t give yes/no answers—expand with examples.
Don’t forget to thank the interviewer for their time.
Final Words of Encouragement
Remember, interviews are a two-way process. Anchor Care Homes wants to see not just your skills but your passion for making a difference. Approach your interview with confidence, knowing that you are prepared. If you want to take your preparation to the next level, consider working with an experienced interview coach.
With over 25 years of helping professionals succeed, I provide personalised interview coaching, job interview preparation, and interview coaching online sessions designed to give you the winning edge.
You don’t have to do it alone—why not book an appointment for professional interview training today and give yourself the best possible chance of securing the Receptionist role at Anchor Care Homes?
