Office operator

What does a Kontorstelefonist do? – Tasks and work environment

A Kontorstelefonist is often the first outward contact for companies, authorities, and organizations. Tasks revolve around professionally receiving and transferring calls, managing reception, and providing simple information to customers and colleagues. The role also includes administrative duties, such as booking meetings, handling mail, and sometimes managing basic tasks in various systems. The work environment is typically office-based with a steady but sometimes high pace, where good service skills and communication ability are crucial. Kontorstelefonists often work in open-plan offices or reception areas and have daily contact with both internal and external parties.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Kontorstelefonist has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,600 SEK, which increased to 29 000 SEK in 2023 – a rise of just over 5%. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward to 29 800 SEK, representing an additional increase of about 2.8% from the previous year. This trend reflects a general pattern within service professions, where increased demand for service skills and digital competencies contribute to somewhat higher wages. Despite the growth, the salary level remains moderate compared to similar administrative roles, with differences between genders where women earn on average 92% of men's salaries.

Kontorstelefonist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 29 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school diploma)
• Highest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school diploma)
• Hourly wage (average): 179 SEK
• Women earn: 29200 SEK (92% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 31 700 SEK
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and sector, with larger cities often offering slightly higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Kontorstelefonist, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on administration or service. Experience in customer service or similar tasks is also advantageous. Some employers may offer internal training and introductory programs for new hires, and there are opportunities to supplement with shorter courses in areas such as telephony and customer interaction.

• Formal education: High school diploma, often with a focus on administration (3 years)
• Courses/certifications: Courses in customer service, telephony, IT systems
• Internships: Internships during high school or via labor market initiatives are common
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish and English skills in speech and writing, basic IT skills
• Tips for choosing: Select high school programs with a focus on service or administration

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for Kontorstelefonists include wellness allowances, subsidized lunch or coffee, and flexible working hours. In some cases, pension contributions, extra vacation days, and further training in digital systems or service management are offered. Additional compensation beyond base salary may occur for work outside regular hours or with special responsibilities.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Kontorstelefonists is relatively stable, but competition can be fierce for the most attractive positions, especially in metropolitan areas. Digitalization and automation have changed the profession, with more tasks now involving handling digital cases and systems. There are increased demands for flexibility, technical skills, and good communication, while service orientation and resilience remain essential. A challenge is that the profession is sometimes undervalued despite its central role in representing the organization. For those wishing to develop, ongoing training and actively taking on new tasks are often necessary.

Tips for aspiring Kontorstelefonist

To succeed as a Kontorstelefonist, it’s good to be service-minded, precise, and maintain a professional attitude at all times. Practicing clear communication and active listening provides advantages in interactions with both customers and colleagues. Flexibility helps when the workday may quickly shift between different tasks or calls. Familiarity with common IT and telephony systems during training is recommended, as technical skills are often required. Resilience and the ability to handle multiple cases simultaneously are important traits that can be trained through practice. A positive attitude and problem-solving skills are appreciated by employers and can open doors to greater responsibilities. Finally, showing engagement with the workplace and a desire to develop your service skills is beneficial.

Key facts about a Kontorstelefonist

• Education level: High school diploma with a focus on administration
• Work environment: Office-based, often in open-plan or reception areas
• Typical work schedule: Full-time, daytime hours
• Demand: 758 job openings in the profession during the past year
• Important qualities: Service orientation, resilience, good communication

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years of experience, opportunities arise for further development within administration, customer service, or reception. Many progress to roles such as receptionist, administrator, or team leader for service functions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand remains stable, with 758 job openings in the past year. Digital skills are increasingly important, potentially creating new career paths in IT support or internal service. Long-term, experience as a Kontorstelefonist can also lead to roles within HR, office management, or other support functions, especially if complemented with further education.

Frequently asked questions about Kontorstelefonist

• What does a Kontorstelefonist earn?
  - The average salary is 29 800 SEK per month, with men earning 31 700 SEK and women 29200 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Kontorstelefonist?
  - A high school diploma, preferably with a focus on administration or service, is most common.
• What is the work environment like for a Kontorstelefonist?
  - The work environment is office-based, often in open-plan spaces or reception areas with daily contact with people.
• Are there salary differences between genders?
  - Yes, women earn 92% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is stable with 758 job openings in the profession during the past year.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Kontorstelefonist?
  - The highest salary is 34,600 SEK (male, public sector), and the lowest is 27,700 SEK (female, private sector).
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Service orientation, resilience under stress, and good communication skills are highly valued.