Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service
Switchboard operators operate telephone business systems equipment or switchboards to relay incoming, outgoing, and interoffice calls. They supply information to callers and record messages.
Switchboard operato job descriptions include generally answer incoming calls, greet callers, provide information, transfer calls or take messages as necessary, operate communication systems, such as telephone, switchboard, intercom, two-way radio, or public address. They further inform people of telephone calls, using paging or interoffice communication equipment, route written or verbal messages, and place telephone calls or arrange conference calls as instructed by others.
How to become a switchboard operator? To apply for switchboard operator jobs, you must have comprehensive knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems, administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography, and transcription along with knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software. Besides these, a good customer & personal service understanding is also required for this domain.
A high school diploma and relevant experience in the field can help you in creating a successful path as a switchboard operator. The work context will involve making calls and getting in touch with people thus, good communication skills will assist you in a smooth working culture for this occupation.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Bachelor's Any Subject
Tasks
- Operate communication systems, such as telephone, switchboard, intercom, two-way radio, or public address.
- Answer incoming calls, greeting callers, providing information, transferring calls or taking messages as necessary.
- Page individuals to inform them of telephone calls, using paging or interoffice communication equipment.
- Relay or route written or verbal messages.
- Place telephone calls or arrange conference calls as instructed.
- Monitor alarm systems to ensure that secure conditions are maintained.
- Contact security staff members when necessary, using radio-telephones.
- Keep records of calls placed and charges incurred.
- Record messages, suggesting rewording for clarity or conciseness.
- Stamp messages with time and date and file them appropriately.
Progression Routes
READY FOR MORE?
Subscribe to our Premium package and you'll unlock a wealth of extra information about your favourite careers and gain access our library of immersive 360° VR careers experience.
As a Premium user you'll find out more about the day-to-day demands of any career, what you could earn and, importantly, receive expert advice on study routes, preparation expenses, and where & what to study to fulfil your potential.