Jobs as a switchboard operator can be found in a variety of small and medium-sized businesses, as well as almost any large corporation. Hospitals, offices, police stations, and government offices employ switchboard operators. Answering phones is part of the job description for switchboard operators, but they also have administrative responsibilities. With only a high school diploma, the majority of people can find work as switchboard operators.
To distribute incoming calls to the appropriate parties, a switchboard operator will typically operate a private branch exchange, or PBX switchboard. Before transferring a call, they may need to announce it over the loudspeaker or simply introduce callers to the recipient. Instead of transferring a caller to voice mail, some switchboard operators are asked to take messages hand.
Even automated systems require the assistance of switchboard operators on occasion. Those who do not wish to leave a message must speak with an operator to arrange for another person to take their call. Furthermore, most phone company switchboard operator jobs, such as assisting customers with local and long-distance calls or providing directory assistance, have been automated. Switchboard operators are still on standto assist those who are having trouble using the automated services.
In an office setting, the switchboard operator’s job often includes serving as a receptionist. It can be difficult to balance incoming calls with incoming customers at the same time, so this switchboard operator job requires a lot of patience and tact. Other administrative tasks performed office switchboard operators include opening mail, typing envelopes, and routing incoming faxes.
The switchboard operator’s job in a hospital necessitates meticulous attention to detail when routing calls to the appropriate patients. Because the switchboard operator is the first point of contact for all calls, he or she must represent the hospital in a professional and caring manner. Switchboard operators in hospitals must be able to use paging systems and monitor a variety of alarm systems. It’s critical that the operator is familiar with all of the hospital’s departments so that he or she can contact any given person in an emergency. Many hospitals will only hire a switchboard operator who has worked in a similar position before.
Switchboard operators are needed local governments to route calls to the appropriate departments and department heads. Frequently, these workers will also answer general questions for callers. Understanding the inner workings of the town government is essential for understanding how to assist customers with their questions and appropriately direct calls.