switchboard operators
Manual call connectors
Switchboard operators are workers who connect telephone calls by manually routing them through a central exchange.
Before automated switching systems, operators physically plugged cables into boards to link callers: Switchboard operators worked around the clock to handle the volume of calls.
The occupation has largely disappeared as technology automated the process, though the term persists for receptionists who route calls within organizations.
- telephonistSwitchboard attendant
- rotary dialCircular phone input
- hold the lineMaintain current position
- party lineOfficial political position
- lineContinuous mark or queue
call · message relay · jack · patch · interpersonal skills · working girl · plug · cord · candlestick telephone · customer interaction · multitasking · trunk line · central office · receptionist · stress management · wire · shift work · team coordination
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- support staffassistant, support staff, aide, administrative assistants, helper