[ AT WORK ]
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Receptionist MAPUANA WASHINGTON >> I love talking! In elementary school, teachers would always comment on my report card: Mapuana is such a bubbly person, but she tends to talk too much! I've proven that you can make a career at what you love, regardless of the skill. I never thought I'd be a receptionist and now, I'm considered the voice of the Hawaii Convention Center.
Mapuana Washington revels in
being the voice of the convention centerAs receptionist, my primary responsibility is answering all incoming calls through the main switchboard. I'm also responsible for greeting and assisting guests who pass through the reception lobby, mailing out surveys to clients following their event at the center and handling requests from those interested in touring our facility. I work Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the same hours the center is open.
Since my phone introduction is unwavering and animated, I'll occasionally have a caller who hesitates to speak for a few seconds. After I repeat my introduction the caller usually apologizes for not knowing if a machine or a "live" person is answering the phone. When I assure the caller that I'm real, I receive compliments on my phone etiquette. I've even had people call back just to hear my voice; what a rave review!
I enjoy having the opportunity to leave a lasting impression of the center on guests and callers from our islands and around the world -- sharing our own unique brand of aloha.
At Work is a weekly feature that shows and tells what people do for a living in their own words. Send comments and submissions to business@starbulletin.com