An internet presentation of the Occupational Outlook Handbook plus related career guidance information

Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2004-05 | All Occupations

< Office and administrative support occupations >

< Communications, computers, customer service >

The section of the ocouha website contains the text of the 2004-05 Occupational Outlook Handbook. This information is no longer being updated. For more recent information, start at the ocouha homepage www.ocouha.com.

Communications, computers, and customer service occupations

Communications equipment operators

Switchboard operators hold 3 out of 4 jobs.
Workers train on the job.
Employment is expected to decline.

Communications equipment operators, all other
Computer operators

Computer operators usually receive on-the-job training; the length of training varies with the job and the experience of the worker.
Employment is expected to decline sharply due to advances in technology.
Opportunities will be best for operators who have formal computer-related education, are familiar with a variety of operating systems, and keep up-to-date with the latest technology.

Customer service representatives

Job prospects are expected to be excellent.
Most jobs require only a high school diploma.
Strong verbal communication and listening skills are important.

Data entry and information processing workers

Employers generally hire high school graduates who meet their requirements for keyboarding speed.
Although overall employment is projected to decline, the need to replace workers who leave this large occupation each year should produce many job openings.
Job prospects should be best for those with expertise in appropriate computer software applications.

Desktop publishers

Desktop publishers are expected to experience faster than average employment growth.
Two out of three worked in firms that handle newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishing, or printing and related support activities.
Although formal training is not always required, those with certificates or degrees will have the best job opportunities.

Media and communication equipment workers, all other

See the Occupational Outlook Handbook in print.