A communications equipment operator works as a switchboard operator for an extensive spectrum of businesses such as hotels, hospitals, government agencies, and telephone call centers. Communications equipment operators of switchboard operators use voice over internet protocol (VoIp) or private branch exchange (PBX) system. This system helps operators to relay outgoing, incoming, and interoffice calls.
Job Prospect
Communications equipment operators quite often cope with other responsibilities comprising of taking messages, supplying information, announcing and greeting visitors. The arrival of advanced technology has automated many tasks performed by switchboard operators. This advanced system facilitates operators to connect outside calls to the automated directories or appropriate destination. These operators use a voice-mail system, which takes messages without the help of an operator.
The job of a telephone operator is to help customers in marking telephone calls. Some of the telephone operators serve as central office operators. Their work is to help consumers to complete long-distance or local calls. Other telephone operators work as directory assistance operators whose responsibility is to equip customers with information such as area codes and telephone numbers.
Callers may reach central office operators by dialing '0'. Some of these operators work for telephone companies and many of their duties are automated. For instance, callers may make credit card, collect, and international calls without the help of central office operator. However, callers may need a central office operator for various tasks comprising of interrupting busy lines or placing person to person calls.
When natural calamity such as earthquake or storms takes place, central office operators equip callers with emergency phone contacts. These operators also help callers who face difficulty with automated phone systems. When callers dial information they, generally, reach a directory assistance operator. This operator equips callers with information such as address, telephone numbers, and business listings.
Many directory assistance operators work with telephone services. They also serve for organizations, which provide business services. The automated system may deal with a number of functions that are performed by directory assistance operators. The automated system enables callers for a listing and connecting the call after providing the number.
A directory assistance operator is in great need to oversee various calls received by the automated system. An operator listens to recordings of request by the customer and subsequently the important information into electronic directories to evaluate the proper telephone numbers. A directory assistance operator also provides personal assistance to consumers who are facing difficulty in using an automated system.
Communication equipment operators including workers who perform a variety of tasks comprising of dealing with telegraph equipment, operating satellite communications equipments and various other communication equipments.
Work Environment
Many communication equipment operators perform their tasks in spacious and pleasing surroundings. Most communication equipment operators spend ample amount of time seated at video monitor and key boards. Some employers offer workstations chosen to reduce glare and other physical distress. This facility decreases the incidence of back discomfort, eyestrain, and injury due to repetitive movement.
Sometimes, the work of an operator may be repetitive and hectic during peak calling periods. Supervisors in telephone companies assess performance of operators to enhance their efficiency. Theses supervisors assess calls to ensure that the information provided to customer is correct. Telephone operators, sometimes, may have to work under severe stress as they receive about 1000 calls a day.
Usually, switchboard operators perform the tasks the same as other clerical employees at their workplace. In many companies, full-time operators work five days a week on regular business hours. In hospitals, hotels, and other firms, work schedule may be irregular. In these firms, switchboard operators have to work on weekends, holidays, and in the evenings.
Telephone operators have to be reachable to customers round the clock. They need to work in different shifts. Usually, many telephone companies assign shifts based upon seniority. They allow experienced operators shifts of their choice. Therefore, entry-level operators have to work in given shifts. However, these operators are allowed to swap shifts with other operators. Sometimes, telephone operators may need to work overtime. In telecommunication companies, operators work full-time as well as part-time.
Educational Qualification
Generally, every employer offers on-the-job-training to communication equipment operators. Candidates who have completed a high school diploma may get into this field. Many switchboard operators receive training in customer service because their primary work is to communicate with people. Training may differ by nature of work and place of employment.
A switchboard operator who is working in a hospital needs to learn how to cope with emergencies. The responsibility of a switchboard operator may include clerical work using computer. They must possess good writing skill that is required to perform clerical tasks.
Candidates who are interceded in this field ought to possess good hearing, clear speech, and strong numerical, spelling, and reading skills. Typing skills and computer knowledge are also important to get a good opportunity in this field.