You’ll need a clear and pleasant phone voice, good hearing, and good overall communication skills to work as a switchboard operator. Taking messages necessitates computer skills as well as the ability to type and write quickly. An aptitude for using computers and electronic equipment is required to quickly learn the phone system and paging system, if one is used the organization. A high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED in the United States, is usually required to work as a switchboard operator.
Many people, including potential clients and customers, speak with switchboard operators as the first representatives of a company or organization. It will be easier for you to succeed in this position if you have a patient, people-oriented personality. To work as a switchboard operator, you must be able to think and act quickly in order to answer a large number of calls, respond to questions, transfer calls to the appropriate personnel, or take messages. Flexibility and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential skills.
Switchboard operators may be expected to perform other clerical duties in addition to managing the switchboard in some organizations. You may be required to file paperwork, open mail, respond to correspondence, and perform other duties. It’s crucial to be able to multitask. Because the switchboard operator in some organizations also serves as the receptionist, having a professional appearance can help you land a job as a switchboard operator.
Many people receive on-the-job training to become switchboard operators. Because different organizations use different phone systems, this is usually the case. More formalized training classes may be offered the organization, or you may be able to shadow a working switchboard operator to learn the ropes. There are also classes in switchboard operation available through training programs. Technical schools and administrative and clerical certificate programs are good places to look for these.
To work as a switchboard operator, you must first obtain employment in the field. Contact employment agencies that place clerical and administrative personnel after you’ve created a résumé that highlights your relevant skills and experience for the position. You can also look for jobs on various job sites and in newspapers.
Switchboard operators are needed a wide range of businesses and organizations, though the number of switchboard operators is decreasing as more businesses implement automated phone systems. Finding a job in the field, however, can lead to a slew of other possibilities. Switchboard operators deal with a wide range of people in a variety of roles.