Telephonist/switchboard operator
Telephonists/switchboard operators are a key point of contact for our patients in making sure they and their families can speak to relevant departments about their care.
Working life
As a telephonist/switchboard operator, you're usually the first point of contact for anyone who phones a hospital, clinic, health centre or NHS trust. You'll operate switchboard equipment to receive calls and pass them on to the correct person or department.
People who call might be anxious or upset so as the telephonist/switchboard operator, you may have to calm them down or reassure them. Some calls are urgent so you may have to contact emergency services or deal with an emergency situation according to the agreed procedures.
Some telephonists/switchboard operators are also receptionists, dealing with patients, families and visitors to the building face-to-face, as well as phone calls.
In a large building such as a hospital or headquarters building, as a telephonist or switchboard operator, you may spend all your time dealing with phone calls. In a smaller organisation such as a clinic or health centre, you may have other duties such as:
- booking patients in for appointments
- filing
- photocopying
- inputting data
- ordering stationery
- booking patient transport
Your job title might reflect their other duties, for example:
- receptionist/telephonist
- clerk/telephonist
- switchboard operator/receptionist
- admin assistant
- clerical officer
As well as dealing with callers, telephonists/switchboard operators have contact with healthcare staff and other admin staff.
Entry requirements, skills and interests
There are no set entry requirements to become a telephonist or switchboard operator. Employers usually expect good literacy, numeracy and IT skills. They may ask for GCSEs or equivalent qualifications.
Employers often ask for relevant work experience. Even where this is not specified, it would be an advantage if you have worked in customer service or admin.
Personal characteristics
Telephonists/switchboard operators need to:
- be friendly and welcoming
- be patient and understanding
- follow instructions and procedures
- work accurately and methodically
- work in a team but use their own initiative
- use IT/communications equipment
- work with all types of people
- deal with people who may be angry or upset
- be confident using the phone
Skills required
- organisation skills
- good communication skills
- IT skills
- excellent customer service skills
- good telephone skills
Training and development
You will get the training you need to do the job. This includes an introduction to the department, how to use the IT and phone equipment and the procedures to follow. You may also have training in customer care.
You may be offered the chance to take qualifications such as NVQs or those from:
- the Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers, Administrators and Receptionists (AMSPAR)
- the British Society of Medical Secretaries and Administrators (BSMSA)
Some telephonists/switchboard operators become members of AMSPAR or BSMSA. Both AMSPAR and BSMSA offer training, online forums and newsletters so staff can network with others working in this field.