What Does a Switchboard Operator Do?

what does a switchboard operator do ? A switchboard operator answers the phone and directs calls to an organization. They are often trained to answer general questions about the company of callers. Switchboard operators are usually the first point of contact in a large company and are required to transfer calls to the corresponding department or person in a courteous and timely manner. The main job description of a switchboard operator is to answer and transfer calls, although they may also have many other job duties. They are entrusted with numerous telephone lines and internal lines and are required to keep a detailed record of all information about incoming and transferred calls. Switchboard operators can be requested to perform administrative and secretarial tasks or even receptionist tasks, such as checking customer appointments. In the hospital environment, telephone switchboard operators must learn to use pager systems to alert doctors to incoming messages. They may also be asked to register patients in facility rooms before an exam. In some cases, telephone switchboard operators even have to act as emergency rescuers and urgently direct medical or security calls to the corresponding party.

Where Does a Switchboard Operator Work?

The switchboard operators can work wherever there is a large influx of calls. Two of the most common places where receptionists work are hospitals and hotels. However, any large company with numerous employees and employee phone lines can also employ a switchboard.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Switchboard Operator?

There are no formal education requirements for becoming a switchboard operator. Employers tend to be more interested in a candidate's relevant experience and skills in the areas of data entry, verbal communication and customer service. In emergency situations, additional training or certification may be required.