“Thanks for calling Cox Purtell, Dee speaking. How can I help you today?”



I’m the voice you hear on the other end of the phone when you call in trying to find a job, talk to your consultant, or whatever other query you may have. But I wasn’t always working in an office. In fact, I have only had only one typical “office” job before working at Cox Purtell. Almost all my other roles have been in hospitality, and surprisingly, those roles have helped me be a better office manager.

1. Customer Service

The most important transferable skill is customer service and the ability to talk to people. It doesn’t matter what role you work in, but if it is with people you should be able to have a conversation with someone. It can be as easy as asking how their day was, or how they are enjoying the weather. Such a simple thing can have such a positive impact on someone’s experience with you and your company and leave them with a smile on their face. This particular skill is the same whether I’m behind the bar or behind the reception desk!

2. Taking Ownership

Secondly, I have learned to take ownership. This means that I do my best to learn how to answer customers/clients/candidates questions to the best of my ability, and ask questions myself from the people who I would just be forwarding on the question to. If I can take the time to answer you, I will! Plus, it always means I am learning something new and I love sharing knowledge.

3. I take Pride in my Work

I am proud of the roles I have worked. I take pride in working with people and making sure that I can do my job as best as I possibly can. I am willing to take risks and try things in order to better myself and the environment around me. I work closely with our directors and expect their feedback to be both critical and constructive. If I am not working up to their expectations, I will adapt and take a new approach to my role. I want to be in a role that I enjoy working in, not just in a role that I have to work in.

All in all, the office isn’t much different than working as a hostess for a restaurant or waiting tables. Everyone is still human and wants to have a positive interaction with each other, and being the first point of contact for Cox Purtell, I will make sure that even if you don’t remember me, you will have a positive interaction with me.

So, next time you call in and hear my voice, I hope that you know that even if I don’t have time to say it, I sincerely hope you have a great day!