Help or Advice on Becoming a Frame Sales Rep

**johnnyocook** · 10-14-2012, 10:39 PM

I have worked in the optical field for over 6 years now. I have worked for private optometrists, helped manage and open multi-office optical franchises, managed multi-office OD practices, and managed multiple large-volume sunglass retail locations. I love working in the optical field. However, I have always wanted most to get a shot at the outside sales aspect of the business.

I have the passion, drive, personality, and optical experience to make a fantastic frame sales rep.

Does anyone have any advice on getting my foot in the door?

Thanks for all the help!

-Johnny Cook, ABOC

**optical24/7** · 10-15-2012, 07:18 AM

You better love the road! (..and traffic, and canceled appointments, sitting and waiting for the buyer to have time for you, accounts that want to return 5 frames and buy one, slow pays, no pays, quotas, looking for disco's....)

Johnny, I thought you were going to open your own shop?

**Judy Canty** · 10-15-2012, 08:48 AM

Also remember, it's a commission job. You cover all your expenses, including gas, food, lodging, trade shows, etc. It's a tough way to make a living, but it can be fun and rewarding.

**JC1111** · 10-15-2012, 10:17 AM

Outside sales is great. You may get discouraged at first when walking into offices and getting rejected. The key is to not get attached to the rejections, but look at them as opportunities to work on your approach. Good luck

**harry888** · 10-15-2012, 03:58 PM

Johnny,

In my area, most opticians don't do well as frame reps.

In the opinionated north, they see things in an office that should be different and are too quick to voice an opinion. Bottom line, it is too easy to go out of bounds with sales advice.

As a southerner you will probably have a better sense for buyers with thin skins.

Harry

**snotbagel** · 10-15-2012, 04:02 PM

http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:13621

why waste your time? Just carry a 3d printer with you..

**johnnyocook** · 10-15-2012, 06:24 PM

You're right, I think as a southerner I do have a little bit of a way with words and with people. I've always taken rejections well and looked to it as growth experience. I think it'd be fun to travel a lot as well. Some of my very best friends are sales reps and also former dispensing and certified opticians. We all agree that I'd be fantastic at it, but it's been hard for me to get my foot in the door or be at the right place and at the right time so-to-speak.

And, yes, I am still looking into opening my own store. Things have slowed down with finding the proper location, but the business plan is solid and is written.

**Chris Ryser** · 10-16-2012, 03:55 AM

You can also go the way of becoming an independent rep. They can choose a few different lines and products not only in frames also in accessories and you do not have to account to any one employer.

**sharpstick777** · 10-19-2012, 11:43 AM

Being a rep is great... But it takes a lot of time and hard work to be successful. Not many people have the self discipline and work ethic. However, if you do have those things, its a very profitable and rewarding career. We need more reps with a dispensing background so I would encourage you to take a chance on it.

Outside sales is probably the greatest test their is of character and discipline I think you will do well. Go for it.

**fourboys** · 10-23-2012, 01:19 PM

Hello Johnny,
If you are still interested in a sales position please feel free to contact me at: tc@morel-eyewearusa.com to discuss the potential with MOREL (Koali - LT - ÖGA). All the best.