Operator (Telephone switchboard operator)
おぺれーた（でんわこうかんしゅ）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that operates a company's or organization's telephone switchboard, handles incoming and outgoing internal and external calls, transfers them, and responds to customer and internal inquiries.
Description
Operators (telephone switchboard operators) operate a company's or organization's telephone switchboard (PBX), handle incoming and outgoing internal and external calls, and transfer or direct them to the appropriate staff. They respond to inquiries from customers and within the company, manage holds, relay messages, manage phone directories, and handle clerical tasks such as reporting, communicating, and consulting. Shift work is common in call centers or company reception areas, and they are required to handle complaints and respond to fluctuations in call volume.
Future Outlook
While the spread of AI auto-response systems is automating routine responses, demand for personnel with complex and advanced response capabilities is maintaining and expanding. The value of operators with multilingual capabilities or specialized knowledge is increasing.
Personality Traits
Able to respond flexibly / Calm demeanor / Good listener / Patient / Polite and courteous
Work Style
Call center / Diverse employment types / Shift work / Work-from-home call center
Career Path
Teleoperator → Supervisor → Operations manager → Customer service representative → Quality control staff
Required Skills
Business manners / PBX operation / PC basic operation / Reporting, contacting, consulting / Telephone handling
Recommended Skills
Communication skills (English) / Complaint handling / Data entry / Honorific language (telephone handling)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Number transfer errors or note-taking mistakes directly lead to trouble. |
| Communication Skills | Clear and polite responses directly contribute to customer satisfaction. |
| Stress Tolerance | Required to endure continuous responses and complaint handling. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Mainly routine tasks with little logical analysis. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Mainly follows standard procedures with little demand for creativity. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Only simple number input required, no advanced mathematical skills needed. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly sitting for long periods with low physical demands. |
| Planning & Organization | Handles sudden tasks but with little planned organization and management. |
Aliases
- Switchboard operator
- Telephone operator
Related Jobs
- Call center operator
- Customer service representative
- Customer support
- Receptionist