Call Handler: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Call Handler
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Call Handler mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Call Handler?
As a Call Handler, you will be in charge of managing incoming and outgoing phone calls, often for a commercial or industrial business. You will assist callers by directing them to the appropriate department or individual, and may also operate switchboards to manage multiple phone lines.
Skills
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Ability to remain calm and composed under pressure
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Attention to detail and accuracy in recording information
- Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively
- Knowledge of medical terminology and emergency procedures
- Ability to work well in a team environment
- Strong customer service skills and empathy towards callers
- Proficiency in using computer systems and software
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations and schedules
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong customer service skills
- Ability to handle high call volumes
- Proficient in using telephone systems and software
- Good problem-solving skills
- Ability to remain calm and composed under pressure
- Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry
- Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively
- Good listening skills
- Knowledge of relevant industry regulations and procedures
Qualifications & Education
- Academic qualifications are not necessarily required for this career field in the UK
- On-the-job training is provided to prepare individuals for the role of a telephone operator
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a call handler in the UK, there are no specific requirements, but employers typically look for good literacy, numeracy, and IT skills. Some employers may also ask for qualifications such as GCSEs or NVQs, and relevant work experience is often preferred.
It takes approximately 7 weeks to become a 999 call handler in the UK.
Yes, being a 999 call handler is considered a good job in the UK. It offers job satisfaction and the opportunity to make a real difference. The job can be stressful, but working closely with colleagues on shifts creates a strong bond, almost like a second family. Additionally, the job allows for flexibility in terms of doing personal errands during off-peak hours.
A call handler in the UK works in ambulance control rooms and takes phone calls from patients in various locations. Their job is to record patient location and condition details and inform emergency response teams. They also inform patients of the response time of the emergency team.
The career progression for a 111 call handler in the UK who is not a registered healthcare professional can include becoming a health adviser (level 3), a senior health adviser (level 4), or a team leader (level 4) through apprenticeships or in-house and role-specific training. Apprenticeships can start at level 2 and go up to Master's level.
There are no set qualifications required to become a 999 call handler in the UK, but employers expect good literacy, numeracy, and IT skills. Some employers may ask for GCSEs, NVQs, or equivalent qualifications, and relevant work experience is often preferred.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Call Handler mock interview, under 10 minutes
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