Train your team

As a member of the International Opticians Association you are well aware of the need for professional development, but have you thought about developing your team? Whether you work in a big optical practice with many staff, or are part of a small business with just one or two people, everyone benefits if you and your team are learning and growing your optical knowledge.

For new staff, it is a real benefit if you have a planned training programme to take them from zero. To the newcomer, the world of optics is full of baffling jargon, and learning a little each day from experienced staff is a great start. After that, though, it is good to take a more structured approach to learning.

Think what topics your staff may need to learn about. Examples could include learning about the world of optics and who does what. There is an infographic here which outlines different roles in optics, or check out our country spotlights. Customer service skills are vital for everyone working in optics, as is some basic knowledge of the eye, its anatomy and health conditions. Consider putting together a basic education programme for your staff or look at online courses.

Beyond the basics, staff should soon start to learn about spectacle lenses. From single vision to bifocals and progressives, the different materials and indexes, there is far more to spectacle lenses than meets the eye. Take the time to talk to your staff about lenses, and think whether there are books, videos, websites and other educational resources that they should digest to develop their knowledge.

As well as lenses, there is lots to learn about spectacle frames. There are many different frame shapes and materials, which will suit different people. In combination with the right lenses, the perfect pair of specs can transform someone’s work or hobby, and your staff need to be equipped to discover what the person’s needs are. On top of this, your staff may like to start to learn about glazing and spectacle manufacture and spectacle repair. While support staff may not be experts on contact lenses, they are likely to get asked questions about them so a basic knowledge of contact lens information is also important if you offer lenses in your practice.

Take some time to plan what your staff need to know and your practice will soon see the benefits. A well educated staff will offer great service to your patients and keep them coming back time after time. Check what optician courses are available in your country, or look at [online courses]https://abdocollege.org.uk/courses/): either way staff training will help your business grow.