I have been a frequent reader and infrequent poster to this forum for a few years now, I honestly have not had much to offer when questions arise. I have learned a few facts from this group and for that I am appreciative. I guess my purpose for this post is for the new people getting into this business. If you want to be an optician and work for L.C. or other chains be prepared to work every weekend, a couple of nights a week and have your hours cut when the business cycle slows down. If you start working for the chains, realize you will not learn more than what it takes to sell the product and possibly how to bend a temple behind an ear.
Don't get into this business if you expect to make decent money working in a retail setting, you will always be one or two paychecks away from having a zero in your bank account. Opticians are not valued by large corporations and we are considered drones required to hold the company line in terms of pushing whatever they make the most money from. The art of our profession has been diluted with sales people who think being a good optician is selling the most expensive product. While the goal is make a profit, screwing over a 95 year old housebound lady by selling her progressive A.R. and transitions does not sit well with me. ( previously CR-39 FT-28 and happy with it, yes I have seen this happen) Be prepared to give up some morals when you work for a chain.
Do get into this business if it is not the primary source of income for your family or if your long term plans are to strike out on your own. Educate yourself about every aspect of this business. Learn anatomy of the eye and what is a good fitting contact and appropriate for the customers. Figure out what other options there are for customers outside of what you can sell them. There will be instances where there is absolutely nothing you can do but it is great if you can refer them to someone who can. Network with your competition (large and small) you never know when you might need some help. If you swallow the corporate mantra if they can't make it, it cannot be done then you do your customer a disservice and remain ignorant of our profession.
After 19 years as a retail associate with some lab thrown in, the time to throw in the retail towel has come. I have been fortunate in that early in my career that I learned from some of the best in the area. Doesn't hurt to have an associates degree in Optical Science and an insatiable desire to learn more about what it takes beyond selling glasses. I'm not leaving the lens business, just leaving retail. You will probably see more of me once I get settled into my new position working for a digital lab. I might even come knocking on your door one day hoping to convert you over to use my products and services. If anyone out there is unsatisfied with their digital lab and their service then PM me. I might have a solution for you. ( shameless plug for a job I start in a week)
Bookmarks