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Telephonist
Switchboard operator
Telephonists, or switchboard operators, answer and connect calls and take messages.
Average salary (a year)
£15000
Starter
£24000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
38.0 to 40.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
evenings / weekends / bank holidays
on shifts
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:a college course; an apprenticeship; applying directly
College
You could take an introductory course like
Level 1 Certificate in Customer Service, Level 2 Certificate in Contact Centre Operations
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
    Apprenticeship
    You could do an intermediate apprenticeship in customer service.
    Entry requirements
    You'll usually need:
    • some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
    More Information
    equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
    guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
    Direct Application
    There are no set requirements for applying directly for jobs, though employers may ask for some GCSEs. Basic computer skills and admin experience can be useful.
    More Information
    Career Tips
    Temporary work can be a useful way to get started in this career and can lead to permanent jobs.
    What it takes
    Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
    Skills and knowledge
    You'll need:
      Customer service skills
      Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
      To be flexible and open to change
      To be thorough and pay attention to detail
      The ability to work well with others
      Excellent verbal communication skills
      Administration skills
      A desire to help people
    Digital Skills Level
    to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
    What you will do
    Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
    Day to day tasks
    Your day-to-day tasks will vary depending where you work. You could
    answer and connect calls using a computerised switchboard system, test lines and report faults, update directories, take and pass on messages, carry out basic administration tasks, work in a team with 'front of house' staff
    Working environment
    You could work in a contact centre, in a reception area or in an office.
    Career Path & Progression
    Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
    With experience you could apply for work as an administrator, customer services specialist or customer services supervisor.
    Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.
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