Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service

Tasks

Core Tasks Include:

• 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.
• Record messages, suggesting rewording for clarity or conciseness.
• Perform various data entry or word processing tasks, such as updating phone directories, typing or proofreading documents, or creating schedules.
• Process incoming or outgoing mail, packages, or deliveries.
• Perform administrative tasks, such as accepting orders, scheduling appointments or meeting rooms, or sending and receiving faxes.
• Monitor emergency and code alarms, make emergency announcements, or route emergency calls to the appropriate location.
• Greet visitors, log them in and out of the facility, assign them security badges, and contact employee escorts.
• Perform various cash handling tasks, such as collecting payments, making bank deposits, or managing petty cash.

Supplemental Tasks Include:

• 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.
• Stamp messages with time and date and file them appropriately.
• Answer simple questions about clients' businesses, using reference files.
• Complete forms for sales orders.
• Place orders, such as for equipment, supplies, or catering for meetings.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)