Operate office machines, such as photocopiers and scanners, facsimile machines, voice mail systems, and personal computers. Answer telephones, direct calls, and take messages. Maintain and update filing, inventory, mailing, and database systems, either manually or using a computer Effective Communication Skills: Giving full attention to what other people are saying. taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Provide emotional support and instruction in areas such as caring for patients, preparing healthy meals, living independently, or adapting to disability or illness. Actively looking for ways to help people. Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.