Telephone operators operate communication systems such as telephone, switchboard, intercom, two-way radio or public address systems, relaying incoming and inter-office calls to the correct parties. Calls are transferred and connections for outgoing calls are made.
They answer incoming calls, greeting callers, providing information, transferring calls or taking messages as necessary, and relay or deliver written or verbal messages. They answer simple questions about the clients' businesses, using reference files, place telephone calls as instructed. They may be required to page individuals to inform them of telephone calls, using paging or interoffice communication equipment.
Records of calls placed and charges incurred may be kept, and messages stamped with time and date to file them appropriately.
Other duties may include monitoring alarm systems to ensure that secure conditions are maintained, contacting security staff members when necessary, using radio-telephones of mobiles and routing emergency calls appropriately, for example, to police or fire departments. They may be required to perform clerical duties, such as proofreading, accepting orders, completing forms for sales orders, scheduling appointments and sorting mail.
Information is supplied and charges determined for long-distance calls. Telephone operators may arrange conference calls for businesses. In smaller organizations, general clerical duties including typing and filing, may be part of the work.