Receptionists
National Receptionists’ Day is all about recognizing the critical role receptionists play in the professional world. Creative Commons

Receptionists everywhere are a vital part of the office environment, helping to keep day-to-day operations running smoothly. National Receptionists’ Day 2015 is all about recognizing the contributions of receptionists, whose daily tasks might at times seem mundane but whose work is no less important to maintaining successful businesses.

No one understands the importance of a smile and a warm greeting better than a receptionist. “Our receptionists are usually our guests’ first point of contact with our clients’ organisations and we appreciate how hard they work to ensure that they make a brilliant first impression,” said Greg Mace, managing director of Rapport, a leading provider of reception services in the U.K., in a statement. “Supporting National Receptionists’ Day is an opportunity for us to celebrate the great work they do and to raise their profile within our operations.”

Receptionists, May 13 belongs to you! On National Receptionists’ Day 2015, here are 11 ways to say thank you for a job well done.

1. “Light is the task when many share the toil.” -- Homer

2. “Excellence is doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.” -- John W. Gardner

3. "Always be nice to secretaries. They are the real gatekeepers in the world." -- Anthony J. D'Angelo

4. “No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.” -- Unknown

5. “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” -- Anonymous

6. A small gift can go a long way in showing receptionists your appreciation. These gifts from CafePress are a great way to say thanks. They range from T-shirts to tote bags to coffee mugs.

7. Flowers are always a good option. Many florists offer same-day delivery, such as fromyourflowers.com.

8. How about taking your receptionist out to lunch? It’s a great way to get to know the person behind the headset.

9. This dinosaur-shaped pencil holder is sure to get a few laughs.

10. A desktop drum set doubles as an anxiety reliever on stressful days.

11. There’s always the foolproof desktop calendar.