Telephonist
Switchboard operator
Telephonists, or switchboard operators, answer and connect calls and take messages.
Salary range: £12,000 to £24,000
How to become a telephonist
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.
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Apprenticeship
You could do an intermediate apprenticeship in customer service or contact centre operations.
Entry requirements
You’ll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
More information
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
Skills and knowledge
You’ll need:
- customer service skills
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- 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
- knowledge of English language
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
What you’ll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your day-to-day tasks will vary with the type of organisation you work for, but may include:
- answering and connecting calls using a computerised switchboard system
- testing lines and reporting faults
- updating directories
- taking and passing on messages
- carrying out basic administration tasks
- working 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 and progression
With experience you could apply for jobs in a related area. You could apply for work as an administrator, customer services specialist or customer services supervisor.