Telephone Operators
Career Snapshot
The telephone operator used to be the heart and soul of the phone industry. As technology advanced, it began to replace the live voice at the switchboard. However, there are some things that automated phone systems cannot handle without human assistance.
When customers are having problems finding a phone number, for example, operators step in. Operators assist consumers in making collect or credit card calls. The employment frequently entails interacting with persons who have special needs, such as youngsters or people who have difficulty speaking.
In an emergency, operators are frequently called upon to contact authorities. These people are frequently employed by telephone companies or huge corporations. Operators must be able to speak effectively and hear well. They must also have decent spelling and computing skills. Fluency in more than one language can be a significant benefit while looking for work.
Work can be stressful since you must be able to handle a high volume of calls swiftly, accurately, and cheerfully. Entry-level occupations often require a high school education or GED, with on-the-job training provided.
The number of available employment is decreasing as technology takes over more of the operator's duties. It is normal to work part-time or in shifts. Many operators advance to positions like as dispatcher, receptionist, customer service representative, or supervisor. Regardless of how few they are, telephone operators provide a much-needed human touch to an increasingly automated sector.