Switchboard Operator how-to

How to Handle a Call Rush on the Switchboard

Busy times test skills.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Busy times test skills. In short: greet; place; route, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Greet quickly.

  2. Place calls on brief hold.

  3. Route the simplest first.

  4. Return to holds quickly.

  5. Stay polite.

  6. Ask for backup if needed.

Safety reminders for switchboard operators

  • Follow emergency code procedures
  • Protect patient and caller privacy
  • Use ergonomic headsets
  • Take breaks

PBX · Transfer · Hold · Page · Code blue · On-call schedule: see the full switchboard operator glossary.

More switchboard operator how-to guides

Learn this in Switchboard Operator trainingTake the practice test
Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz