Switchboard operators handle all external and internal calls for a company. They answer the phone and route the calls to the correct destinations within the company. They also handle internal calls that need to be directed within the company.
Operators are often responsible for paging systems in the company. When a caller calls in, he or she may need to page the department or person over the PA system to let them know that they have a call. For many operators, the job requires them to only be responsible for incoming calls. Many companies require the operator to be a receptionist as well. He or she greets customers that come into the business and directs them to the areas that they need to find.
Some switchboard operators also deal with customer service. They may answer brief questions that customers have, such as where the business is located, or what services they offer. Operators perform all types of duties within a company. The job definition of an operator varies greatly from company to company.